Calling Cuba from the United States can seem complicated, with relations between the two countries being complex. However, it is possible for US residents to call Cuba, as long as you follow some simple steps. In this comprehensive guide from Callmama, we will walk you through everything you need to know about Calling Cuba from the US.

Overview of US-Cuba Relations

Ever since Fidel Castro led the Cuban Revolution in 1959, relations between the US and Cuba have been tense. The US imposed a trade embargo on Cuba in 1960 which is still in effect today. However, relations began to thaw under President Obama, who eased some restrictions on travel and trade with Cuba.

While the cheap calls to Cuba are now possible from the US, there are still some regulations in place. It's important to understand the background of US-Cuba relations when making calls between the two countries.

How to Make Direct Calls to Cuba

There are a few different ways to go about Calling Cuba directly from the United States. Here are the main options:

Using an International Calling Card

One of the most convenient and cost-effective ways to call Cuba is to use an international calling card. A best calling card to Cuba allows you to call Cuba by dialing an access number, entering your pin code, then dialing the Cuba number.

There are many calling card providers to choose from, so do your research to find one that offers low rates to call Cuba specifically. Some of the top calling cards for Cuba routes include:

• Lingo
• Net10
• H2O Wireless
• Surfglobal

When using a calling card to Cuba, you will dial an access number, followed by your pin, followed by the Cuba number. It's that easy!

Calling from Your Cell Phone

If you have an unlocked cell phone, you can potentially make a direct cuba cell phone number from your device. However, this tends to be a more expensive option than using a calling card.

To call Cuba directly from your cell, you would dial 011 (the exit code for international calls), followed by 53 (Cuba's country code), then the area code and phone number.

Before calling directly from your cell, check with your carrier to see what international rates for Cuba are. Oftentimes, it can be $1 per minute or more.

Using VoIP Services

VoIP (Voice over Internet Protocol) allows you to make voice calls via the Internet. There are many VoIP services like Skype, WhatsApp, FaceTime Audio, Google Voice, and more that enable internet-based calling.

To use VoIP to call Cuba, you would just need to add credit to your VoIP account, and then dial the Cuba number. With VoIP services, you can often get much cheaper rates in Cuba compared to cell networks. Just check the rates beforehand.

Via Landline

If you have a landline phone service, you can also call Cuba directly this way. To call via landline, just dial 011 (international exit code), 53 (Cuba country code), area code, and phone number.

Landline calls are usually cheaper than cell calls, but more expensive than calling cards or VoIP services. Check pricing with your phone carrier first.

How to Obtain a Cuba Phone Number

Wondering what the Cuba cell phone number format looks like? Here are the basics:

• Cuba country code: 53
• Area codes: There are various area codes across different Cuban provinces such as 23 for Matanzas, 31 for Holguin, and 33 for Camaguey.
• Cell phones: Cuban cell numbers begin with 5.
• Number format: 011 53 XXX X (full phone number with country code)

There are a few options for getting your own Cuban phone number you can call and receive calls on:

• Purchase a Cuban SIM card - You can buy a Cuba SIM card on sites like CubaSIMcard.com and use it while traveling.
• Rent a Cuban phone - Some companies offer rented Cuban cell phones you can use during your visit and return afterward.
• Use a virtual phone number service - There are services that provide virtual Cuban numbers you can forward calls to.

Having your own Cuban number makes it easy for people there to call you, and for you to establish a local presence.

Tips for Calling Cuba

Here are some top tips to keep in mind when calling Cuba from the United States:

• Use a prepaid calling card for the lowest rates. Cards like Lingo, H2O Wireless, and Surfglobal offer great rates to Cuba.
• Consider using VoIP services like Skype or WhatsApp which offer cheap internet calling options.
• Only make cell phone calls to Cuba in an emergency, as high roaming charges apply.
• Double-check that you have the right country code (53), area code, and phone number for the person you are trying to reach in Cuba.
• You can call Cuba using a landline phone service from the US, but it may be more expensive than calling cards or VoIP.
• Try to call during off-peak hours like late at night or early morning to catch lower rates.
• Limit your call durations to control costs if making multiple calls.

Is it Legal to Call Cuba from the US?

Yes, it is completely legal for US citizens and residents to call Cuba from the United States. While there are still trade and travel restrictions between the US and Cuba, direct communication in the form of phone calls is permitted.

The US Federal Communications Commission (FCC) states that under current US law, telephone communication between a person located in the US and a person located in Cuba is authorized.

So go ahead and call friends, family members, and business contacts in Cuba when needed. Just be sure to use cost-effective services to save money on your calls.

In Summary

Calling Cuba from the United States is very feasible thanks to international calling cards, VoIP services, mobile apps, and other calling options. You just need to follow an international dialing format and use services designed to offer affordable call rates to Cuba.

With the right provider, calling Cuba can cost less than domestic call rates. Do some research to find the best Cuba calling card or VoIP app for your needs. This will ensure quality connections and budget-friendly prices, allowing you to stay in touch with loved ones in Cuba.

Hopefully, this guide has provided you with clarity on the best practices, dialing formats, regulations, and tips for calling Cuba from the US. Reach out today to start connecting with people across the sea.