Staying connected with friends, family, or business contacts in Mexico is important. Whether you’re planning a trip, managing business across borders, or simply keeping in touch, understanding how to call Mexico from abroad is essential. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about Mexico Area Codes and making successful international calls.
Understanding Mexico Area Codes for International Calls
Mexico utilizes a 10-digit dialing system for all phone numbers, encompassing both landlines and mobile phones. When making international calls to Mexico, you’ll need to understand how these area codes fit into the dialing sequence. The country code for Mexico is 52. This is a crucial component that signals to your phone network that you are making an international call to Mexico.
It’s important to note a significant change in dialing procedures implemented in 2020. Previously, when calling a Mexican mobile number from the United States and other countries, callers were instructed to add the digit “1” after the country code 52. This is no longer necessary. You should now dial directly to the 10-digit number after the country code. The process for calling landlines in Mexico remains unchanged.
To successfully call a Mexican phone number from the United States or Canada, you’ll typically use one of two methods depending on whether you are calling from a mobile phone or a landline.
Dialing Mexico from the US and Canada: Step-by-Step
The method for calling Mexico varies slightly depending on whether you’re using a mobile phone or a traditional landline. Here’s a breakdown of each process:
Calling Mobile Phones in Mexico
When dialing a Mexican mobile phone from your mobile device in the U.S. or Canada, the process is straightforward:
- Start with the “+” sign: This international prefix is essential when dialing from a mobile phone. You can usually enter the “+” symbol by long-pressing the “0” key on your phone’s keypad.
- Enter the Mexico country code: This is 52.
- Dial the 10-digit phone number: This includes the area code and the local number in Mexico.
Example: To call a Mexican mobile number with the area code “xx” and local number “xxxx-xxxx”, you would dial: +52 xx xxxx-xxxx
Calling Landlines in Mexico
If you are calling a Mexican landline from a landline phone in the U.S. or Canada, the steps are a bit different:
- Dial the international access code: This code is 011 in the United States and Canada. It signals that you are making an international call.
- Enter the Mexico country code: Again, this is 52.
- Dial the 10-digit phone number: Including the area code and local number.
Example: To call a Mexican landline with the area code “xx” and local number “xxxx-xxxx”, you would dial: 011 52 xx xxxx-xxxx
For further details and to ensure you have the most up-to-date information, you can refer to resources like the flyer provided by the Mexican government (download this flyer). For Spanish speakers, more information is available at the official Mexican government website (http://www.ift.org.mx/comunicacion-y-medios/marcacion-a-10-digitos).
International Calling Checklist: Ensuring a Smooth Connection to Mexico
Making international calls can sometimes be confusing. Here’s a helpful checklist to ensure you have everything covered when calling Mexico:
1. Verify Dialing Codes and Procedures with Your Service Provider
Always confirm the specific international dialing procedures with your long-distance service provider, especially if you are using a landline. While the 011 access code is standard in the US and Canada, it’s always best to double-check for any specific instructions they might have. Service providers can offer detailed guidance and ensure you are using the correct prefixes and codes.
2. Understand Mobile vs. Landline Dialing Differences
As outlined above, the initial steps for dialing mobile and landline numbers in Mexico are slightly different (using “+” for mobile and “011” for landline when calling from the US/Canada). Being aware of this distinction is crucial for making successful calls. Remember the 2020 update: do not add “1” after the country code 52 when calling Mexican mobile numbers.
3. Explore International Calling Plans for Cost-Effective Communication
If you anticipate making regular calls to Mexico, consider signing up for an international calling plan with your current service provider. These plans often offer significantly reduced per-minute rates compared to standard basic rates. While a monthly fee might apply, the savings on frequent calls can be substantial. Carefully evaluate the total cost, including monthly fees, to determine if a plan is economically beneficial for your calling habits to Mexico.
4. Research Cheaper Alternatives for International Calls to Mexico
Beyond traditional phone services, numerous alternatives can offer more affordable ways to call Mexico:
- Prepaid Calling Cards: International prepaid calling cards can sometimes offer lower rates than standard long-distance providers. These cards allow you to pre-pay for minutes, helping you control your spending. However, always be aware of potential hidden fees associated with some prepaid cards.
- Mobile Phone International Plans: Many mobile service providers offer international plans or add-ons that can reduce the cost of international calls. Check with your mobile carrier to explore their international options and rates for calls to Mexico.
- Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) Services: VoIP services like Skype, Google Voice, and others can be significantly cheaper for international calls, often using your internet connection instead of traditional phone lines. These services may require a microphone and headset or can sometimes be used from your regular phone. Compare different VoIP providers to find one that suits your needs and offers competitive rates for calls to Mexico.
Comparing International Calling Rates: Basic Rates vs. Plans vs. VoIP
Understanding the different rate structures for international calls can help you make informed decisions and save money. Basic rates, often called “non-discounted rates,” are typically the most expensive and are applied when you haven’t signed up for a specific international calling plan. Monthly plans offer reduced rates for a recurring monthly fee. VoIP services often present the lowest per-minute rates.
The tables below illustrate the price differences between basic rates, monthly plans, and Skype for calls to various countries, including Mexico, based on data from September 2020. While rates may have changed, these examples provide a good comparison of the cost structures.
International Calls from Landline Phones: Basic Rates vs. Monthly Plans vs. Skype (Examples from 2020)
| Calls to: | AT&T Basic Rate | AT&T Worldwide Value Calling ($5.99/month) | Verizon Basic Rate (Fios) | Verizon World Plan 300 ($10/month)* | Skype |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Canada | $1.55 | $0.05 | $0.05 | $0.05 | $0.023 |
| China | $5.00 | $0.11 | $0.15 | $0.15 | $0.020 |
| India | $5.00 | $0.28 | $0.28 | $0.28 | $0.015 |
| Mexico | $3.50 | $0.09 | $0.02 | $0.02 | $0.010 |
| UK | $3.50 | $0.08 | $0.08 | $0.08 | $0.023 |
| * Rates listed apply to minutes in excess of the 300 minutes included in the plan. |
International Calls to Mobile Phones: Basic Rates vs. Monthly Plans vs. Skype (Examples from 2020)
| Calls to: | AT&T Basic Rate-Mobile | AT&T Worldwide Value Calling ($5.99/ month)-Mobile | Verizon Basic Rate (Fios) – Mobile | Verizon World Plan 300 ($10/month) – Mobile* | Skype-Mobile |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Canada | $1.55 | $0.05 | $0.05 | $0.05 | $0.023 |
| China | $5.00 | $0.11 | $0.17 | $0.17 | $0.020 |
| India | $5.00 | $0.28 | $0.29 | $0.29 | $0.015 |
| Mexico | $3.65 | $0.24 | $0.05 | $0.05 | $0.035 |
| UK | $3.70 | $0.28 | $0.29 | $0.29 | $0.10 |
| * Rates listed apply to minutes in excess of the 300 minutes included in the plan. |
As you can see, the cost of calling Mexico can vary dramatically based on the method you choose. Basic rates are significantly higher than plan rates and VoIP service rates. For frequent calls to Mexico, exploring monthly plans or VoIP options is highly recommended to minimize expenses.
Finding the Right Service Provider for Calls to Mexico
Numerous service providers offer international calling services to Mexico. Major carriers like Verizon and AT&T provide both basic rates and international plans. Many prepaid service providers and VoIP services also specialize in affordable international calls.
Here are some web resources for service providers to help you compare options (please note that this is not an exhaustive list and is for informational purposes only):
Wireline Service Providers:
- AT&T International Long Distance Plans: att.com/home-phone/landline/long-distance.html
- Verizon International Long Distance Plans: verizon.com/home/phone
Prepaid Service Providers:
- Union Telecard International Prepaid Calling Cards: uniontelecard.com/phonecards
U.S. Mobile Wireless Service Providers:
- AT&T Mobility International Wireless Plans: att.com/offers/international.html
- T-Mobile International Services: t-mobile.com/coverage/roaming
- US Cellular International Long Distance Rates: uscellular.com/services/international/long-distance-cell-phone-plans/index.html
- Verizon Wireless International Solutions and Services: verizonwireless.com/solutions-and-services/international/
VoIP and Alternative Service Providers:
- Google Voice International Rates: google.com/voice/rates
- Nextiva International Rates: nextiva.com/resources/international-calling-rates.html
- Skype International Plans: skype.com/en/international-calls/
- Vonage International Plans: vonage.com/unified-communications/global/global-calling-plans/
Conclusion: Stay Connected to Mexico with Ease
Calling Mexico from abroad doesn’t have to be complicated or expensive. By understanding the correct dialing codes, considering cost-saving alternatives, and choosing the right service provider, you can easily stay connected with those in Mexico. Remember to always verify the most current dialing procedures and rates with your chosen provider to ensure successful and affordable international calls.
