How to use cards

Using an international phone card

Using prepaid calling cards is straightforward once you understand how they work. All you need is the right access number to dial and a PIN number.

Each calling card is slightly different, but they all work with the following process:

1. Dial the access number
2. Enter your PIN-number
3. Dial your destination

Some cards might have an option which asks you to choose a language; others have menus where you need to key a number to get other services. A good example of this is that some cards allow you to turn on number recognition, so if you call from home you can get the card to recognize you after the first call so you don't have to enter the PIN again.

Access numbers

There are two types of numbers available to call:

• Local access numbers: You pay for a local call (from your home phone, public phone or mobile). The international connection is then paid for from the calling card. You get the same number of minutes calling from a fixed or mobile phone.
• Toll-free access numbers: You don't pay for the local call. Both local and international connections are paid for from the calling card. Using a toll-free access number means you are charged a higher rate per minute by the card provider (since the provider pays the local connection as well).

Credit and calling minutes

Some cards give your remaining balance after entering your PIN. When you dial a number, all cards will tell you how many minutes you have left. As rates differ between countries, the number of minutes remaining will depend on where you're calling.

Dialing your destination

Once you dial your destination number the call starts connecting. This can takes longer than a normal call (especially calling a mobile), so give it up to at least 30 seconds.

Redialing and follow-on calls

All cards let you redial and make follow-on calls so that you don't have to hang up, dial and enter your PIN again. Look at the instructions for each card.