The search query “area code 853” is a geographic inquiry, typically from someone who received a call or is trying to place an international call.
The 853 area code is not a valid geographic area code within the North American Numbering Plan (NANP), which includes the US and Canada. Instead, 853 is the international country calling code for Macau (+853), a Special Administrative Region (SAR) of China known for its large tourism and gaming industries.
If you received a call from a number displaying 853, it is an international call from Macau. This guide details the location, time zone, and correct dialing format for Macau.
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Location and Origin of Code 853
The code 853 serves a unique and densely populated territory in Asia.
Primary Location and Time Zone
- Location: Macau SAR, China (formerly a Portuguese colony).
- Continent:
- Time Zone: Macau Standard Time (MST), which is UTC+8 hours year-round. Macau does not observe Daylight Saving Time.
Phone Number Structure in Macau
All phone numbers in Macau (both fixed lines and mobile phones) have a total of 8 digits after the country code. The first digit of the local number indicates the type of line:
| Line Type | Local Number Starts With | Example (after +853) |
| Fixed Landlines | 2 or 8 | +853 28XX XXXX |
| Mobile Phones | 6 | +853 6XXX XXXX |
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How to Dial a Macau Number
Calling Macau from North America requires the use of the international exit code followed by the country code 853.
| Step | Digits | Example (Calling a Mobile in Macau) |
| 1. International Exit Code | 011 (or + on a mobile phone) | 011 |
| 2. Macau Country Code | 853 | 011 853 |
| 3. Mobile Number | 8 digits (starting with 6) | 011 853 6XXX XXXX |
Important: Because 853 is a country code, calls to this destination are subject to international long-distance rates from your carrier.
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Scam and Fraud Warning
As with most international codes, unexpected calls from +853 should be approached with caution.
- Risk: While Macau is a stable financial center and generates many legitimate business calls, the code can be used for “one-ring” callback scams or phishing campaigns originating from other parts of Asia.
- Safety: If you are not expecting a call from Macau, do not answer the phone or return the call. Returning an unsolicited international call can result in high, unexpected fees on your phone bill.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Is 853 a US area code?
No. The area code 853 is not recognized or assigned within the United States or Canada, as NANP rules prohibit the use of area codes starting with ‘1’ or ‘0’.
What is the time difference between New York and Macau?
Macau (UTC+8) is 12 hours ahead of the U.S. East Coast (EST/EDT). When it is 8:00 AM in New York, it is 8:00 PM the same day in Macau.
What is the country code for Hong Kong?
Hong Kong is a separate Special Administrative Region from Macau and uses a different country code: +852.
