How to Call China from Singapore  - Re-opt

Whether you're catching up with family, making a crucial business call, or simply staying in touch with loved ones, understanding how to call China from Singapore is essential. With over 450,000 Chinese nationals residing in Singapore, robust communication ties between the two countries are vital for both personal and professional connections. 

This blog will guide you through everything you need to know about China calling codes, cost-effective calling methods, and tips for seamless communication. Whether you’re new to international calls or seeking more affordable options, we’ve got you covered. 

Direct Dial a China Number from Singapore 

The simplest way to call China is through direct dialing, whether you're calling a landline or a mobile number. Here's how to do it step-by-step. 

Steps to Direct Dialing a China Landline 

1. Start with Singapore’s international access code by dialing 001. 

2. Add China’s country code, which is 86. 

3. Enter the area code of the province or city you’re calling (e.g., Shanghai is 21). 

4. Dial the local landline number (exclude any prefixes, like 0). 

Example: To call a landline in Shanghai, dial 001 86 21 XXXXXXXX. 

Steps to Direct Dialing a China Mobile Number 

1. Start with Singapore’s international access code by dialing 001. 

2. Follow it with China’s country code, 86. 

3. Skip the initial 0 in the mobile number and proceed with the rest of the digits. 

Example: To call a Chinese mobile number, dial 001 86 123 4567890. 

Number Composed for Direct Dialing China 

IDD Call to China

To make an international direct dial (IDD) call from Singapore to China, you'll need to use the correct dialing sequence and IDD prefix. This format includes the IDD prefix, China's country code (86), and the area code or mobile number (without the leading 0).

Dialing Format:

[IDD Prefix] + 86 + [Area Code or Mobile Number]

For example, to call a landline in Shanghai (area code 21), you would dial:
001 86 21 XXXXXXXX

If you’re calling a Chinese mobile number (e.g., 138-1234-5678), you would dial:
001 86 13812345678

Circles.Life customers should use the IDD prefix 001, which is the standard code for most international calls made from Singapore. It ensures compatibility and coverage for calls made via Circles.Life’s network.

DD Prefix Codes Used in Singapore

Use International SIM Cards to Save on Calling Costs 

Frequent travelers and business professionals should consider international SIM cards or eSIM options to reduce calling expenses. 

Benefits of International SIM and eSIM Cards 

• Cost-Effective: Enjoy lower calling rates for international destinations, including China. 

• Convenience: Avoid the hassle of juggling multiple devices or SIM cards. 

• Global Coverage: Stay connected in multiple countries without needing to switch providers. 

International SIM and eSIM Plans in Singapore 

Several providers in Singapore offer tailored plans for international travelers. Providers like StarHub Happy Roam and M1's prepaid international roaming packs are particularly popular for their reliable coverage and affordable rates. 

International SIM and eSIM Plans in Singapore

Affordable eSIM and Roaming Plans of Circles.Life

Circles.Life offers flexible and travel-ready eSIM solutions that allow you to stay connected across borders without changing your SIM. These Borderless Roaming plans include generous data, international call minutes, and unlimited incoming calls across 7 popular destinations including China.

As of July 2025

Whether you're visiting family, traveling for business, or simply calling overseas, these roaming plans help you avoid SIM swaps and hidden fees while staying connected to Singapore and beyond.

WhatsApp Calling to a Chinese Mobile Number 

For a more affordable option, consider using communication apps like WeChat or WhatsApp for internet-based calls. Both apps are widely used in China and provided you have a stable data connection, calls are free. 

Steps to WeChat Call a China Number 

1. Install the WeChat app and create an account if you don’t already have one. 

2. Add the contact you wish to call, ensuring their number is stored in the correct international format (+86 XXXXXXXXXX). 

3. Tap on the call icon within the app to connect instantly. 

Data Plans for Seamless WeChat Calls 

Reliable data is crucial for uninterrupted app-based calls. Consider these data plans for smooth communication with China from Singapore: 

• Circles.Life: Offers unlimited data plans perfect for heavy app usage. 

• Singtel DataRoam: Affordable daily data packages with excellent speeds. 

• Giga by StarHub: Flexible pay-as-you-go options. 

WhatsApp Calling to a Chinese Mobile Number

Data Plans for Seamless WeChat Calls

Whether you're using WhatsApp, WeChat, or other VOIP apps to call friends and family in China, a reliable mobile data plan is essential. Circles.Life offers generous data bundles with no contracts, making them perfect for consistent high-quality app-based calling without eating into your core data.

Popular Data Plans of Circles.Life

All plans support seamless app-based communication, perfect for making free calls through WeChat, WhatsApp, or FaceTime over data or Wi-Fi.

Tip: Planning to use data-based calling while abroad? Download the Circles.Life app to manage your plan, monitor roaming usage, and switch between data packs in real-time.