The sequence +56 is the official international telephone prefix assigned to the Republic of Chile, located on the western coast of South America. If you have received a communication or need to place a call using the +56 country code, you are dealing with a phone number in Chile.
Chilean phone numbers follow a consistent 9-digit national format. This comprehensive guide will detail the correct dialing procedure for both landlines and mobile phones, list major city codes, and explain the time zone differences.
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The +56 Country Code: Chile
The code +56 is the unique identifier for Chile in the global telecommunications system. Chile is the world’s southernmost country and the closest to Antarctica.
| Feature | Detail |
| Location | Chile (South America) |
| Capital City | Santiago |
| Time Zone | Chile Standard Time (CLT/CLST): Varies between UTC-4 and UTC-3 due to Daylight Saving Time (DST). |
| Number Format | 9 digits total (Area Code + 7- or 8-digit Local Number) |
Time Zone Note: Seasonal Changes
Chile observes seasonal clock changes, which is critical for international calls.
- Chile Standard Time (CLT): UTC-4 (Observed during part of the year).
- Chile Summer Time (CLST): UTC-3 (Observed during part of the year, usually starting in September).
The time difference from the U.S. East Coast (EST/EDT) can fluctuate between one and three hours. Always verify the current time in Santiago or the relevant region to ensure you call at a convenient hour.
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How to Dial a Phone Number Using the +56 Country Code
All national phone numbers in Chile are now a standard 9 digits long (Area Code + Subscriber Number). Landlines and mobile phones have slightly different procedures when dialing internationally.
Dialing Structure
Dialing from the U.S. or Canada (Landlines)
- Dial the International Exit Code (011): (Or use the + symbol on a mobile phone).
- Dial the Country Code (56).
- Dial the 1- or 2-Digit Area Code.
- Dial the 7- or 8-Digit Local Number.
Example: Calling a Santiago Landline from the U.S.
Dialing from the U.S. or Canada (Mobile Phones)
When calling a Chilean mobile number from abroad, you simply combine the country code and the 9-digit mobile number. Mobile numbers typically start with the digit 9.
Example: Calling a Chilean Mobile Phone:
Key Geographic Codes
Chile uses various one- or two-digit codes for different regions:
| Major City/Region | Area Code | Example Full International Format |
| Santiago (Metropolitan) | 2 | +56 2 XXXXXXXX |
| Valparaíso / Viña del Mar | 32 | +56 32 XXXXXXX |
| Concepción | 41 | +56 41 XXXXXXX |
| Antofagasta | 55 | +56 55 XXXXXXX |
| Punta Arenas | 61 | +56 61 XXXXXXX |
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Cost and Safety Considerations
Calls to Chile are considered international calls and may incur substantial per-minute fees from your carrier.
- Cost-Saving Tip: Use VoIP apps (WhatsApp, Skype) or purchase an international calling package to reduce costs.
- Scam Warning: Although the +56 code itself is legitimate, be mindful of unexpected calls or texts. Never return a missed call from an unfamiliar international number to avoid falling victim to premium-rate subscription scams.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
How many digits are in a Chilean phone number?
A full Chilean phone number, including the country code, typically consists of 11 digits (i.e., +56 followed by 9 digits). All mobile and fixed-line numbers now use a 9-digit National Significant Number (NSN).
Is the +56 code used for any U.S. area code?
No. The code +56 is strictly for the nation of Chile and is not part of the domestic North American Numbering Plan (NANP).
What is the emergency number in Chile?
Chile uses specialized emergency numbers, with the Police Emergency number being 133 and the Ambulance (SAMU) number being 131.
To see a visual guide on calling Chile, view this video: How To Call Chile From US?.
