Understanding Phone Numbers in France vs. India: A Telecom Guide for Indian Expats in France & the EU

At L’Association Frehindi, we routinely help Indian and South Asian expats navigate these everyday challenges, with the support of the Indian Embassy in Paris and other Indian embassies across the EU.

 

☎️ Types of Phone Numbers in France: Structure & Area Codes

 

In France, all phone numbers are 10 digits long and begin with specific prefixes that tell you what type of number it is:

 

📲 Breakdown of Mobile & Service Numbers

 

 

🎨 Color Coding System in France for Service Numbers

 

To help users avoid confusion or hidden charges, France uses a color code system:

• 🟩 Green: Fully free (even from mobile)

• 🩶 Gray: Call charged, but service is free

• 🟪 Purple: Premium/surcharged service

🧠 Note: India does not use such color-coding. Customer care in India can come from mobile, landline, or toll-free numbers, and the pricing clarity is not always there.

🇫🇷 vs 🇮🇳 Telecom Systems: A Comparative Overview

 

 

👤 Real-Life Examples: When Telecom Confusion Affects Expats

 

📞 Case 1: Missed Opportunity Due to 09 Prefix Confusion

 

Anjali Mehta, a student from Gujarat studying in Lyon, got a call from a ‘09’ number, which she ignored thinking it was spam. It turned out to be from Doctolib, confirming her long-awaited doctor’s appointment. She missed the slot, and had to wait another three weeks.

👉 Lesson: Know that 09 numbers are often from genuine platforms like health services, taxis, or Uber.

🚫 Case 2: Job Interview Call Blocked

 

Rahul Verma, a techie who recently arrived in Paris, blocked numbers starting with 08, thinking they were spam. Later, he discovered that a recruitment agency’s HR had tried to reach him through an 0806 number — a standard-rate customer service line.

👉 Lesson: 08 numbers aren’t always scammy. Numbers like 0800–0805 are toll-free; others might be normal office lines.

🧾 Case 3: SIM Card Activation Delayed

 

Priya Sharma, a dependent spouse, went to buy a SIM card. Unlike India, she was asked for:

• Passport copy

• Proof of address (electricity bill or rental agreement)

• Residency permit copy

Her SIM took 48 hours to activate, unlike India where she was used to instant activation via Aadhaar.

👉 Lesson: Be prepared with documents. SIM activation is more regulated in France for security.

 

🌐 Managing Your Telecom Plan: Espace Client in France

 

In France, everything from changing mobile plans to checking data usage, bills, or upgrading services is done online through a personalized “Espace Client” (customer space):

• Each telecom operator gives you login credentials

• You can do most tasks without visiting a physical store

• Language is usually French, so help may be needed for non-speakers

In India, while digital apps exist (like MyJio, Airtel Thanks), in-person support remains widely available, especially in smaller towns.

 

🧑‍💼 Major Telecom Operators – India vs France

 

Each operator in France has its own activation policies, Espace Client, and online-only deals. Read the fine print!

 

🤝 How L’Association Frehindi Helps Indian Expats Navigate These Challenges

 

We often receive queries from Indian families, students, and professionals who are:

• Confused by unusual phone numbers

• Worried about being overcharged

• Unable to activate or manage telecom services

• Misjudging customer service calls as spam

• Missing important VOIP calls from online platforms

At L’Association Frehindi, we:

✅ Provide bilingual (Hindi-English-French) help to understand telecom documents
✅ Help you choose the right mobile plan
✅ Assist in online registration for espace client
✅ Guide on differentiating scam vs genuine calls
✅ Connect you with service providers in emergencies

We operate under the patronage of the Indian Embassy in Paris, along with other Indian embassies across the EU.

 

📝 Key Takeaways