How do I get local phone numbers in different countries for calling?

To get local phone numbers in different countries for calling, you generally have a few options depending on whether you need one number, many numbers, or numbers that can receive calls/SMS.

Common ways to get local numbers

1) VoIP / business phone providers

These services let you buy numbers in many countries and use them over the internet.

Examples:

• Twilio
• RingCentral
• Zoom Phone
• Aircall
• Dialpad
• Vonage
• Skype Number (availability varies)

What you can usually do:

• Purchase a local number in a specific country/city
• Forward calls to your existing phone
• Make outbound calls with that local caller ID
• Sometimes send/receive SMS, depending on the country

2) Virtual number marketplaces/resellers

Some companies specialize in international local numbers and forwarding.

Useful if you need:

• A number in a country where big providers don’t offer one
• More flexible routing or support
• Multiple numbers across many countries

3) Mobile carriers / local SIM cards

If you physically need a real local mobile number:

• Buy a SIM card in that country
• Use a local prepaid or postpaid plan

Best for:

• Local mobile identity
• SMS verification
• In-country use

Downside:

• Usually requires presence in the country
• Harder to manage across many countries

4) Cloud telephony/API providers

If you’re building a system or app, use providers that offer programmable phone numbers.

Examples:

• Twilio
• Plivo
• Vonage API
• Telnyx

Useful for:

• Call routing
• IVR menus
• Recording
• Call centers
• Programmatic caller ID

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Things to check before buying

Not every “local number” works the same way. Check:

• Country availability: Not all countries offer local numbers
• Call types: voice only, SMS, or both
• Local regulations: Some countries require business registration or local address
• Caller ID rules: Outbound local caller ID may be restricted
• Number type: mobile, landline, toll-free, national, geographic/local
• Porting: Whether you can move the number later
• Forwarding fees: Some providers charge extra for forwarding/international routing

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If you just need to call people locally

If your goal is simply to make calls appear local:

• Buy a local number in the target country
• Configure outbound caller ID to use that number
• Use the provider’s app, SIP, or API to place calls

If you want to receive calls from local people too:

• Make sure the number supports inbound calls
• Set forwarding or answer via app/webphone

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Best option by use case

• Personal use / occasional calling: Skype Number, local VoIP provider
• Business with multiple countries: RingCentral, Aircall, Zoom Phone, Dialpad
• Developers / automation: Twilio, Telnyx, Plivo
• Need true local mobile SMS verification: local SIM card or mobile virtual operator

If you tell me:

1. which countries you need,
2. whether you need voice only or SMS too, and
3. whether this is for personal or business use,

I can recommend the best providers and setup.