The Ultimate Guide to Phone Area Codes in Spain (+34)

Moving to a new country, doing business, or simply staying in touch with friends in Spain requires understanding its unique telecommunications system. While it may seem straightforward, knowing the nuances of the area code in Spain, how to dial correctly, and what different number prefixes mean can save you time, money, and confusion.

This comprehensive guide will walk you through everything you need to know about the Spanish telephone numbering plan, from making your first call to understanding the difference between a landline in Madrid and a mobile in Mallorca.

The Basics First: Spain’s Country Code and Dialing Format

Before diving into area codes, let’s start with the most important number:

• Spain’s Country Code is +34. Every phone call originating from outside of Spain must begin with this code (after dialing your country’s international exit code).

A key characteristic of the Spanish system is its closed dialing plan. This means that all Spanish phone numbers have 9 digits, and you must always dial all nine, including the area code, even if you are calling from within the same city. This system was fully implemented in 1998 to expand the availability of phone numbers across the country.

How to Call a Spanish Number from Abroad: A Step-by-Step Guide

Calling Spain is simple once you know the formula. The process varies slightly depending on where you are calling from.

Formula: Your Country's Exit Code + 34 + 9-Digit Spanish Phone Number

Examples:

• From the United States or Canada: Dial 011 + 34 + XXX XX XX XX
• From the United Kingdom or most of Europe: Dial 00 + 34 + XXX XX XX XX
• From a mobile phone anywhere: You can usually just use the plus sign. Hold down the 0 key until + appears, then dial +34 + XXX XX XX XX.

Remember: The 9-digit Spanish number already includes the area code. Do not add any extra numbers or zeros after dialing +34.

Anatomy of a Spanish Phone Number: Landlines vs. Mobiles

The first few digits of a 9-digit number tell you what kind of phone it is.

• Spanish Landlines (Teléfonos Fijos): These numbers begin with a 9 or an 8. The first two or three digits represent the geographical area code Spain uses, known as a prefijo provincial. For example, all landlines in the province of Madrid start with 91.
• Spanish Mobile Phones (Teléfonos Móviles): These numbers begin with a 6 or, more recently, a 7. These prefixes are not tied to a geographical location. A mobile number starting with 6 could belong to someone living anywhere in Spain.

The Complete List of Spanish Area Codes by Province

Finding the correct area code in Spain is easy with this comprehensive table, organized by Autonomous Community for your convenience.

More Than Just Area Codes: Understanding Special Numbers

Beyond standard landlines and mobiles, you will encounter special prefixes. It is crucial to know what they mean to avoid unexpected charges.

• Toll-Free Numbers (Gratuitos) – 800 y 900: ???? Calling these numbers is completely free for the caller. They are often used for customer service lines.
• Shared Cost Numbers – 901: ???? The cost of the call is split between you and the company you are calling.
• National Call Rate Numbers – 902: ???? Use with caution! These numbers have the cost of a national call, but they are almost never included in flat-rate mobile or landline plans. This means you will be charged separately for them, and they can be expensive.
• Premium Rate Numbers – 80X (803, 806, 807): ???? Avoid these numbers unless you are fully aware of the cost. They are for premium services (adult entertainment, tarot, professional services) and are charged at a very high per-minute rate.

Getting Your Own Spanish Number: A Simple Path for Expats

Having a local Spanish number is essential for daily life, from setting up utilities to using Bizum (a popular payment app). While the process can seem daunting, it doesn’t have to be.

Typically, you’ll need a form of Spanish identification (like a NIE) and a bank account. However, navigating the bureaucracy can be challenging. For expats, the easiest way to get connected is by using a service designed for the international community. Companies like Tiekom specialize in providing mobile and internet packages with contracts and customer service in English, eliminating the language barrier and simplifying the entire setup.

Calling in Spain, Made Simple

Understanding the Spanish telephone system is a key step in feeling at home in Spain. By knowing the area code Spain uses for each province, how to dial correctly, and which special numbers to watch out for, you can communicate with confidence. Whether you’re making a business call or getting a local number for your new life abroad, you now have the ultimate guide to get you started.