The search query “27 country code” indicates a user looking to identify the origin of an international phone number, most likely after receiving an unexpected call or message.
The country code +27 is the international telephone code assigned to South Africa (Republic of South Africa). When dialing a phone number in South Africa from anywhere else in the world, the call must begin with this code.
Understanding this code is crucial for properly formatting international calls and for recognizing the origin of unexpected telecommunication contact, especially considering the rise of international spam and scam calls.
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Location and Time Zone
The country code +27 serves the entire nation of South Africa.
Geographic Location
- Country: South Africa (Republic of South Africa)
- Continent: Africa
- Major Cities (by Area Code):
- 11: Johannesburg (Largest city, economic hub)
- 21: Cape Town (Legislative capital)
- 12: Pretoria (Administrative capital)
- 31: Durban
- 41: Port Elizabeth (Gqeberha)
Time Zone
- Time Zone: South Africa Standard Time (SAST).
- Offset: UTC+2 (Two hours ahead of Coordinated Universal Time, year-round).
Note: South Africa does not observe daylight saving time, making time conversions simple. For example, if you are calling from the U.S. East Coast (EST/EDT), South Africa will be 6 or 7 hours ahead, depending on the time of year.
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How to Dial a Number Using the +27 Country Code
South Africa uses a closed numbering plan, meaning both geographic (landline) and mobile numbers follow a fixed 9-digit national format.
The Correct International Dialing Format
To call a South African number from outside the country, you must follow this sequence:
| Step | Digits | Description | Example (Calling Cape Town) |
| 1. International Exit Code | 011 (US/Canada) or 00 (most of Europe/Asia) or + | The code to leave your country. Using + on a mobile phone works globally. | + |
| 2. Country Code | 27 | The code for South Africa. | +27 |
| 3. Area Code (without leading 0) | 2–3 digits | For landlines, the initial ‘0’ in the domestic area code (e.g., 021 for Cape Town) is dropped. | +27 21 |
| 4. Local Number | 7 digits | The rest of the local number. | +27 21 555 1234 |
Final Format (Landline Example – Cape Town): +27 21 XXX XXXX
Final Format (Mobile Example): South African mobile numbers typically start with 6, 7, or 8, and the dialing format is the same: +27 7X XXX XXXX.
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Scam and Fraud Warning
If you receive an unexpected call or message from a number starting with +27, particularly on platforms like WhatsApp or Viber, you should exercise caution.
Why You Should Be Wary
- International Call Scams: Scammers frequently use international numbers, including those from Africa, to initiate various frauds, such as the “money for likes” or “part-time job” These often start with an unsolicited call or text message promising easy money.
- Number Probing: Sometimes, the calls are designed merely to verify that your number is active. If you answer, you confirm your number’s legitimacy, leading to more unwanted contact.
Steps to Stay Safe
- Do Not Answer Unknown Numbers: If you are not expecting a call from South Africa, let it go to voicemail.
- Never Engage: Do not engage in conversation, click any links, or download any attachments sent from unknown international numbers.
- Block and Report: Block the number immediately and use the reporting features available on your phone or messaging app (like WhatsApp) to report the account as spam.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Is there a fee to call the +27 country code?
Yes, calls to the +27 country code are considered international calls and are subject to international long-distance rates. Check with your mobile or VoIP provider, as many unlimited plans may not include South Africa or may only include calls to landlines.
How do I dial a mobile number in South Africa?
You use the same international format as a landline, dropping the domestic trunk code (0). For example, a South African mobile number listed domestically as 073 123 4567 is dialed internationally as +27 73 123 4567.
Why am I getting calls from +27 on WhatsApp?
Scammers target WhatsApp users globally, often using cheap international virtual numbers like those from the +27 range. If you receive a call from an unknown +27 number on WhatsApp, it is almost certainly a scam attempt (e.g., job offer fraud or extortion). Block the number immediately.
