How to Use the +356 Country Code: A Guide for SMBs and Startups

Whether you’re coordinating with a partner or supporting customers in Valletta, understanding how to format and dial Maltese phone numbers correctly is critical for clear and professional communication. 

This guide explains how to use the 356 country code, structure Malta phone numbers properly, avoid common formatting issues, and connect more effectively using DialLink’s cloud-based phone system. 

What Is the 356 Country Code? 

+356 is the country code for Malta. It must be included when dialing any Maltese phone number from outside the country. 

Here’s what that looks like: 

• Country Code: +356 
• Malta Area Codes: Malta does not use traditional area codes; the first digits indicate mobile or landline numbers 
• Number Format: +356 XXXX XXXX 

All Malta phone numbers consist of 8 digits, whether mobile or landline, and are dialed the same way from abroad. 

Common Pitfalls in International Number Formatting 

Improper formatting can lead to missed connections, broken automation, or failed CRM entries. Here are common mistakes to avoid when dialing or storing Maltese numbers: 

• Leaving out the +356 country code — especially when saving numbers in CRMs or cloud dialers. 
• Adding a trunk prefix (like 0) — Malta numbers don’t use a leading 0. 
• Assuming there are area codes — the first digit of the number (e.g., 2 or 7) indicates line type. 
• Inconsistent formatting — which can affect system integrations and call routing. 

For SMBs and startups managing contacts across borders, using international standards like E.164 format ensures accurate communication and automation. 

Make International Calling Easy with DialLink 

DialLink is an AI-powered cloud phone system built to help SMBs and startups simplify global communications. With DialLink, it’s easy to stay in touch with partners, vendors, and customers in Malta without expensive hardware or complex setup. 

Here’s how DialLink helps businesses connect with Malta: 

• International calls – Make affordable international calls with no complex setup or hidden fees 
• AI voice agents – Automate routine calls, like client support or booking inquiries 
• Mobile, desktop, and desk phone support – Make calls anytime, from anywhere 
• Professional call handling tools – Voicemail, call routing, transcripts, and more 
• Business messaging – Send and receive messages from Malta contacts 

Common Malta Number Format Examples 

How to Read and Format Malta Numbers 

Malta phone numbers consist of 8 digits with no area codes or trunk prefixes. The first digit signals the type of line: 

• 2XXX XXXX — Landline numbers 
• 7XXX XXXX / 9XXX XXXX — Mobile numbers 
• 8XXX XXXX — Toll-free or special service numbers 

When calling from abroad, you only need to dial +356 followed by the full 8-digit number. There’s no need to remove a leading 0 because Malta doesn’t use one. 

Format Variations 

• International Format (E.164): +35677123456 — used in CRMs, VoIP platforms, and contact systems for standardization. 
• Local Format (in Malta): 7712 3456 — used when dialing within Malta. 
• Long-Distance Format (from the U.S. or Canada): 011 356 7712 3456 — “011” is the international access code for North America. 
• International Dialing Format (from UK/EU): 00 356 7712 3456 — “00” is the international dialing prefix used in most European countries. 

Best Practices for SMBs 

• Always store numbers in full international format (e.g., +356 XXXX XXXX) for system compatibility 
• Avoid adding trunk prefixes like 0 — Maltese numbers don’t use them 
• Standardize formatting across your CRM, dialer, and messaging platforms to reduce errors and missed contacts 

By understanding how each part of a Malta phone number works, SMBs can reduce miscommunication, improve call connection rates, and maintain a professional image in international interactions. 

FAQs

Where is the 356 area code?

The 356 code is the country code for Malta. Malta does not use area codes, so 356 applies to all phone numbers in the country.

What is the country code for Malta?

The country code for Malta is +356.

What is the correct format for a Malta phone number?

The correct international format is +356 XXXX XXXX. Malta uses 8-digit numbers with no trunk prefix or area code.

How many digits are in a typical Malta phone number?

All Malta phone numbers contain 8 digits, whether landline, mobile, or toll-free.

Do all Malta phone numbers adhere to the same format?

Yes. Every number has 8 digits, but the first digit identifies the number type — landline, mobile, or toll-free.

Why do some Malta phone numbers begin with 1-800 or 1-888?

They don’t. 1-800 and 1-888 numbers are toll-free prefixes used in North America. Malta’s toll-free numbers usually begin with 800 and are formatted as +356 800X XXXX.

Is there a way to call Malta for free from the USA?

Most carriers charge for international calls to Malta. However, cloud-based phone systems like DialLink offer competitive international rates and cost-effective calling plans for small businesses and startups.