Step By Step Guide To Calling France From Mauritius On Your Mobile Phone

Making an international call from Mauritius to France may seem straightforward, but small mistakes in dialing format or carrier selection can lead to failed connections or unexpectedly high charges. Whether you're contacting family, conducting business, or arranging travel plans, getting the process right ensures clarity, reliability, and affordability. This comprehensive guide walks you through every essential step, from understanding country codes to choosing the most cost-effective method—so you can connect with confidence.

Understanding International Dialing Basics

To successfully place a call from Mauritius to France, you need to follow a standardized international dialing sequence. This involves three key components: the exit code (to leave your country), the destination country code, and the local phone number. Each element plays a crucial role in routing your call correctly across global telecommunications networks.

Mauritius uses 00 as its international exit code. Some mobile carriers also accept the \"+\" symbol when dialing abroad, which automatically converts to the appropriate exit code based on your location. France’s country code is 33. French landline numbers typically begin with 01 through 05, while mobile numbers start with 06 or 07. When dialing internationally, you must omit the leading zero from the area or mobile code.

Tip: Always double-check that you’ve removed the initial '0' from the French number when dialing from abroad. For example, dial 33 6 12 34 56 78 instead of 06 12 34 56 78.

Step-by-Step Dialing Instructions

1. Unlock your mobile phone and open the dialer app.
2. Dial the Mauritian exit code: Press 00, or use the + symbol if your phone supports it (usually accessed by long-pressing the \"0\" key).
3. Enter France’s country code: After the exit code, type 33.
4. Add the French local number: Input the remaining digits of the number, starting with the area or mobile code without the leading zero. For instance, convert 06 XX XX XX XX to 6 XX XX XX XX.
5. Press call. Your phone will now attempt to connect the international line.

Example: To call a mobile number in Paris listed as 06 78 90 12 34, you would dial: 00 33 6 78 90 12 34 or [phone].

Choosing the Right Carrier and Plan

Your choice of mobile provider significantly impacts both call quality and cost. Major telecom operators in Mauritius—including Emtel, Orange Mauritius, and My.T—offer various international calling packages. Rates for calling France vary widely depending on whether you’re using pay-as-you-go credit, a bundled plan, or a specialized international add-on.

Provider	Standard Rate to France (per minute)	International Bundle Option	VoIP/App Support
Emtel	MUR 12–18	Yes – Global Pack available	Yes
Orange Mauritius	MUR 10–15	Yes – “World Call” package	Yes
My.T	MUR 14–20	Limited options	Yes

Subscribing to an international calling bundle often reduces per-minute costs by up to 70%. These plans usually require a small monthly fee but include hundreds of minutes to select countries, including France. Check your provider’s latest offers online or via customer service before making frequent calls.

“Using a dedicated international calling plan can save users over MUR 500 monthly on regular France-Mauritius communication.” — Rajiv Naidoo, Telecommunications Analyst at Indian Ocean Insights

Alternative Methods: VoIP and Messaging Apps

If voice call rates remain high or inconsistent, consider Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) services. These apps use your mobile data or Wi-Fi connection to make calls, bypassing traditional telecom charges entirely. Popular platforms include:

• WhatsApp: Free voice and video calls between users; requires both parties to have the app installed.
• Skype: Offers low-cost calling to landlines and mobiles in France via Skype Credit or subscriptions.
• Google Meet / FaceTime: Best for video, but usable for audio-only sessions with compatible devices.
• Viber: Supports free internet calls and affordable international top-ups.

For best results, ensure a stable internet connection—preferably Wi-Fi—to avoid call drops or poor audio quality. While these tools are cost-efficient, they rely on the recipient having access to the same platform or being reachable via internet-enabled devices.

Tip: Use Wi-Fi calling features offered by your carrier if available. It allows standard calls over wireless networks, especially useful during travel or weak signal areas.

Mini Case Study: Calling Home from Port Louis

Sophie, a university student studying in Port Louis, needed to speak weekly with her parents in Lyon, France. Initially, she used her standard Emtel prepaid plan, spending nearly MUR 800 per month at MUR 15 per minute. After researching alternatives, she switched to Orange’s “World Call” bundle for MUR 299/month, which included 400 minutes to France. Her monthly cost dropped by more than 60%, and call clarity improved due to prioritized network routing.

Additionally, Sophie began using WhatsApp for shorter check-ins, reserving her bundled minutes for longer weekend conversations. By combining smart carrier selection with app-based communication, she maintained consistent contact without straining her budget.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Forgetting to remove the leading zero: Including the initial '0' in French numbers causes automatic rejection in many systems.
• Not checking time zones: France operates on Central European Time (CET/CEST), which is 2 hours ahead of Mauritius (MUT). Calling too early or late can disrupt recipients.
• Assuming all SIMs offer equal rates: Prepaid tourists or secondary SIM cards may lack international bundles or charge premium rates.
• Ignoring data usage with apps: Long VoIP calls over mobile data can consume significant bandwidth, especially on limited plans.

FAQ

Can I use my Mauritian mobile phone to call France without extra charges?

No, standard mobile plans do not include free international calling. However, some providers offer inclusive minutes to France through optional add-ons. Otherwise, per-minute charges apply unless you use internet-based calling apps like WhatsApp or Skype.

Is it cheaper to call France from a landline in Mauritius?

In most cases, no. Landline international rates in Mauritius are comparable to or higher than mobile rates. Mobile carriers often provide better value through competitive bundles and promotions tailored to diaspora communities.

What should I do if my call doesn’t go through?

First, verify the number format: ensure you've dialed 00 (or +), followed by 33 and the local number without the leading zero. Restart your phone if needed, check network coverage, and confirm sufficient balance or subscription validity. If issues persist, contact your provider’s customer support for troubleshooting.

Final Checklist Before You Call

✅ Verify the French number format

Remove the leading '0' from area/mobile code.

✅ Confirm your calling credit or bundle

Check balance or active international packages with your provider.

✅ Choose the best time to call

Account for the 2-hour difference—France is ahead of Mauritius.

✅ Consider using VoIP apps

Use WhatsApp, Skype, or Viber for lower-cost or free alternatives.

✅ Test connection quality

Make a short test call first if discussing important matters.

Conclusion

Calling France from Mauritius doesn’t have to be complicated or expensive. With the correct dialing sequence, a suitable calling plan, and awareness of digital alternatives, you can stay connected affordably and reliably. Whether you're reaching out to loved ones or managing cross-border responsibilities, taking a few moments to prepare ensures smoother, stress-free communication.

💬 Have experience calling France from Mauritius? Share your tips or preferred method in the comments below—your insight could help others save time and money!