Calling friends, family, or business contacts in Mexico from the United States is a common need. Whether you’re planning a vacation, keeping in touch with loved ones, or conducting business, understanding the correct dialing procedure is essential. Since 2020, there has been a change in how to dial mobile numbers in Mexico from the USA, making it even more important to stay updated. This guide provides you with a comprehensive breakdown of how to successfully dial Mexico from the USA, ensuring you make your calls easily and cost-effectively.
Understanding the Dialing Codes for Mexico
To call Mexico from the USA, you’ll need to understand the specific dialing codes. The process differs slightly depending on whether you are calling a mobile phone or a landline. The most important element is Mexico’s country code, which is 52.
Dialing Mobile Numbers in Mexico
A significant change occurred in 2020 regarding dialing mobile numbers in Mexico. You should no longer add the digit “1” after the country code “52” when calling a Mexican mobile number from the U.S. This simplifies the process and brings mobile dialing in line with landline dialing procedures.
To dial a mobile number in Mexico from a mobile phone in the USA:
- Start with the “+” sign: This is the international access code for mobile phones.
- Enter the country code for Mexico: This is 52.
- Enter the 10-digit Mexican mobile number: This includes the area code.
Therefore, the format for dialing a Mexican mobile number from a US mobile phone is: +52 xx xxxx-xxxx
Dialing Landline Numbers in Mexico
The process for dialing a landline in Mexico from the USA remains unchanged. From a landline in the USA, you need to use the US exit code followed by Mexico’s country code and the landline number.
To dial a landline number in Mexico from a landline phone in the USA:
- Dial the US exit code: This is 011.
- Enter the country code for Mexico: This is 52.
- Enter the 10-digit Mexican landline number: This includes the area code.
Therefore, the format for dialing a Mexican landline number from a US landline phone is: 011 52 xx xxxx-xxxx
Step-by-Step Guide to Dialing Mexico from the USA
Let’s break down the dialing process into simple, actionable steps for both mobile and landline calls to Mexico.
Step-by-Step for Mobile Phones:
- Open your phone’s dial pad: Just as you would to make any phone call.
- Enter the “+” symbol: You can usually do this by long-pressing the “0” key.
- Dial 52: This is the country code for Mexico.
- Enter the 10-digit Mexican phone number: Make sure you have the complete 10-digit number, including the area code.
- Press the call button: And your call will be placed to Mexico.
Step-by-Step for Landline Phones:
- Pick up your landline phone receiver.
- Dial 011: This is the US exit code for international calls from landlines.
- Dial 52: This is the country code for Mexico.
- Dial the 10-digit Mexican phone number: Include the area code as part of the 10-digit number.
- Wait for the call to connect: You may hear ringing or international dialing tones.
Navigating Call Costs: Finding the Best Option
Making international calls can sometimes be expensive, but understanding the different rate options can help you minimize costs when calling Mexico from the USA. Here’s a breakdown of common rate structures:
Basic Rates
Basic rates are the standard, non-discounted charges for international calls. These rates are typically applied when you haven’t signed up for a specific international calling plan. While convenient for occasional calls, basic rates can be significantly higher than other options.
International Calling Plans
Many service providers offer international calling plans that can drastically reduce the per-minute cost of calls to specific countries, including Mexico. These plans often come with a monthly fee but offer significantly lower rates per minute. If you frequently call Mexico, an international plan is likely the most cost-effective solution.
Prepaid Calling Cards
Prepaid international calling cards are another way to save money on international calls. You purchase a card with a set amount of call time, often at discounted rates. This can be a good option for those who want to control their spending and avoid monthly plan commitments. However, be sure to check for any hidden fees associated with prepaid cards.
VoIP Services (Voice over Internet Protocol)
VoIP services like Skype, Google Voice, and Vonage offer calls over the internet, often at very competitive international rates. These services can be significantly cheaper than traditional phone providers, especially for frequent or long-duration calls. You can use VoIP services via apps on your computer or smartphone.
Mobile Provider International Options
Check with your mobile service provider about their international calling options. Many providers offer specific international plans or discounted rates for calls to Mexico. Sometimes, adding an international add-on to your existing mobile plan can be more economical than basic rates.
Rate Comparison Examples
To illustrate the potential cost differences, consider the following examples of basic rates versus plan rates and VoIP options (rates are examples and may vary; always check with your provider for current pricing):
International Calls from Landline Phones: Basic Rates vs. Monthly Plans vs. Skype (Example Rates)
| 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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Mexico | $3.50 | $0.09 | $0.02 | $0.02 | $0.010 |
International Calls to Mobile Phones: Basic Rates vs. Monthly Plans vs. Skype (Example Rates)
| 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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Mexico | $3.65 | $0.24 | $0.05 | $0.05 | $0.035 |
* Rates listed apply to minutes in excess of the 300 minutes included in the plan.
These examples clearly show that utilizing international calling plans or VoIP services can lead to substantial savings compared to basic rates, especially for calls to mobile phones.
Choosing Your Service Provider for International Calls
Numerous service providers offer options for calling Mexico from the USA. Here are some categories and examples to consider:
Wireline Service Providers
Traditional landline providers like AT&T and Verizon offer international long-distance plans.
- 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
Companies like Union Telecard offer international prepaid calling cards.
- Union Telecard International Prepaid Calling Cards: uniontelecard.com/phonecards
U.S. Mobile Wireless Service Providers
Major mobile carriers also provide international services and plans:
- 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
For internet-based calling, consider these 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/
Pro Tips for Saving Money on Calls to Mexico
- Compare Rates: Always compare the basic rates, plan rates, and VoIP options to find the most affordable solution for your calling needs.
- Consider VoIP for Frequent Calls: If you make frequent or lengthy calls, VoIP services are often the cheapest option.
- Evaluate International Plans: If you call Mexico regularly, an international calling plan from your landline or mobile provider can offer significant savings.
- Check for Hidden Fees with Prepaid Cards: Carefully review the terms and conditions of prepaid calling cards to avoid unexpected charges.
- Monitor Your Usage: Keep track of your call duration to stay within plan limits or prepaid card balances.
Conclusion
Calling Mexico from the USA is straightforward once you understand the dialing codes and available options. Remember to use “+52” for mobile calls and “011 52” for landlines, and always consider the most cost-effective calling method for your needs. By exploring international plans, VoIP services, and prepaid cards, you can stay connected with Mexico without breaking the bank. Whether for personal or business reasons, making calls to Mexico can be simple and affordable with the right approach.
