Area Code 256 – S. João da Madeira
The phone area code for S. João da Madeira is 256 (international format +351256). Browse local exchange codes (NXX) and carrier assignments below.
📞 Exchange Codes (NXX) for Area Code 256
Select a central office code to view local carrier data and detailed information
📍 Geographic Location of S. João da Madeira
Geographic Overview
The +351 256 area code is a geographic National Destination Code (NDC) assigned to the municipality of São João da Madeira, located in the Aveiro District of the Norte region, Portugal. This code also covers the surrounding areas that form part of the same local calling area, including the parishes of Arrifana, São João da Madeira (the city center), and portions of the neighboring municipalities of Oliveira de Azeméis and Santa Maria da Feira that fall within the historical exchange boundaries. The region is known for its industrial heritage, particularly in the footwear and felt manufacturing sectors, and is part of the Porto Metropolitan Area's broader economic influence.
Dialing Formats
For domestic callers within Portugal, the number is dialed as 256 XXX XXX (without the leading '0' that was historically used before the 2002 reform). For international callers, the full E.164 format is +351 256 XXX XXX. When dialing from a foreign country, you must replace the '+' with your country's international access code (e.g., '00' in most European countries, '011' from the United States).
Number Structure and Allocation
All Portuguese fixed-line numbers are nine digits long, including the leading '2' of the NDC. The structure is: +351 2XX XXX XXX, where '2XX' is the geographic area code. The remaining six digits are the subscriber number. This code is allocated exclusively to fixed-line services (PSTN and VoIP-based fixed services) and is managed by the Portuguese regulatory authority, ANACOM. Subscriber numbers within this range are typically assigned to residential and business lines, and number portability allows users to retain their number when switching providers, though the geographic association remains.
Caller Instructions
- Local callers (within Portugal): Dial 256 XXX XXX directly. No trunk prefix is required.
- International callers: Dial +351 256 XXX XXX (or your country's exit code followed by 351 256 XXX XXX).
- Callers from mobile phones: Always use the full number with the area code, even for local calls, as mobile networks do not recognize abbreviated local dialing.
Overlays and Special Considerations
As of the latest ANACOM numbering plan, there are no overlay codes for this area, meaning the 256 code is the sole geographic code for São João da Madeira. However, due to number portability, a number with this code may be routed to a VoIP service or a mobile network if the subscriber has ported it, but the caller experience remains the same. For emergency services, always dial 112, regardless of the area code.