Calling Mexico from the United States can be a simple and straightforward process if you follow the right steps. With the advent of modern telecommunications, making international calls has become more accessible and affordable than ever before. Whether you’re calling for business, personal reasons, or to stay connected with loved ones, understanding the process can save you time, money, and frustration.
Before making your call, it’s important to gather the necessary information. This includes the phone number you wish to call, which should be formatted in the correct international format. For calls to Mexico, the country code is 52, followed by the area code and the local number. For example, to call a landline in Mexico City, you would dial 52 55 555-1212. If you’re calling a mobile number, the format is the same, but the area code will be replaced by a three-digit mobile network code.
Once you have the correct phone number, you can dial it using a landline or mobile phone. If you’re using a landline, you will typically need to dial an international access code, which varies depending on your service provider. The most common international access code is 011, but it can also be 00 or another number. After dialing the international access code, you will dial the country code for Mexico (52), followed by the area code and the local number. If you’re using a mobile phone, you may not need to dial an international access code. Simply dial the plus sign (+) followed by the country code (52), the area code, and the local number.
Dialing the Correct Country Code
To call Mexico from the United States, you must dial the correct country code. The country code for Mexico is 52. This code must be dialed before any Mexican phone number, including the area code and the local number.
When dialing to mobile phones, you must also include the mobile network code. The mobile network codes for Mexico are:
Network | Code |
---|---|
Telcel | 63 |
Movistar | 60 |
AT&T | 55 |
Unefon | 33 |
For example, if you wish to call a mobile phone with the number 123-456-7890 that belongs to the network Telcel, you would dial the following: 011 + 52 + 63 + 123-456-7890.
Entering the Area Code
When calling Mexico from the USA, it’s crucial to include the correct area code after dialing the country code +52. The area code serves as a regional identifier, directing your call to the specific city or town in Mexico. Without the area code, your call will not connect.
To determine the correct area code for your destination in Mexico, refer to the table below:
City | Area Code |
---|---|
Mexico City | 55 |
Monterrey | 81 |
Guadalajara | 33 |
Cancun | 998 |
Acapulco | 744 |
Once you have identified the appropriate area code, follow these steps to place your call:
- Dial +52 (Mexico’s country code)
- Enter the area code (e.g., 55 for Mexico City)
- Dial the seven-digit local number
Example: If you want to call a landline in Mexico City, you would dial +52 55 555-1234.
Removing the Leading Zero
The leading zero in Mexican phone numbers is used to indicate that the number is a landline. However, when calling Mexico from the USA, you do not need to dial the leading zero. In fact, dialing the leading zero may result in an error message.
To call a Mexican landline from the USA, follow these steps:
1. Dial 011, which is the exit code for the USA.
2. Dial 52, which is the country code for Mexico.
3. Dial the Mexican phone number, without the leading zero.
4. Press the call button.
For example, to call the Mexican landline number 55 1234 5678, you would dial 011 52 1234 5678.
Dialing on a Mobile Phone
If you are calling a mobile phone in Mexico, the process is slightly different. You will need to add a “1” before the Mexican mobile number. For example, to call the Mexican mobile number 55 1234 5678, you would dial 011 52 1 1234 5678.
Dialing from a Landline
If you are calling a Mexican landline from a landline, you may need to dial an additional 9 before the exit code. This is because some landlines in the USA require you to dial a 9 to get an outside line. For example, to call the Mexican landline number 55 1234 5678 from a landline, you would dial 011 52 1234 5678.
Type of Call | Example Number | Dialing Instructions |
---|---|---|
Landline to Landline | 011 52 1234 5678 | Dial 011, then 52, then the Mexican landline number |
Landline to Mobile | 011 52 1 1234 5678 | Dial 011, then 52, then the number 1, then the number 1234 5678 |
Dialing the Local Number
Once you have dialed the Mexican area code, you need to dial the local number of the person or business you are calling. Local numbers in Mexico are eight digits long and can be found in the telephone directory or on the company’s website.
To dial a local number from the United States, you need to do the following:
- Dial the Mexican area code (3-digit number)
- Dial the local number (8-digit number)
- Purchase a phone card: Choose a phone card that includes minutes for Mexico.
- Dial the access number: Once you have a phone card, dial the access number provided on the card.
- Enter your PIN: After dialing the access number, enter your PIN (personal identification number) to activate the card.
- Dial the Mexico country code: Enter the country code for Mexico, which is 52.
- Dial the phone number: Now, dial the full Mexico phone number, including the area code and the local number.
- Check the expiration date on the phone card to ensure it’s still valid before using it.
- Keep your PIN confidential to prevent unauthorized use.
- Note the number of minutes included on the phone card and monitor your usage to avoid running out of minutes.
- If you encounter any issues while using the phone card, contact the customer service number provided on the card or the website of the provider.
- Dial the call forwarding code: *21*
- Enter the U.S. number you want to forward calls to.
- Press the Send or Call key.
- You will hear a confirmation message indicating that call forwarding has been successfully set up.
- Call forwarding may not be available for all phone plans.
- Check with your phone carrier for specific details and any charges associated with call forwarding.
- If you are traveling to Mexico for an extended period, consider purchasing a local SIM card to avoid high roaming charges.
- Use a Wi-Fi hotspot:
- Purchase a local SIM card:
- Use a calling card:
- Check with your carrier:
- Consider using a VoIP service:
- Use a virtual phone number:
- Rent a satellite phone:
- Turn off your data roaming:
- Be careful when using apps:
- Monitor your usage:
- Contact your carrier if you have any questions:
- Dial the exit code for the USA: 011
- Dial the country code for Mexico: 52
- Dial the area code for the city you’re calling (see table below)
- Dial the local phone number
Example:
To call Mexico City | Dial |
---|---|
From the US | 011 + 52 + 55 + 56584321 |
Using a Phone Card
Phone cards offer a convenient way to make international calls without needing a landline or mobile phone. They can be purchased at many retail stores and online and come with a set amount of minutes that can be used to call specific countries.
To use a phone card, follow these steps:
Here are some additional tips for using a phone card:
Calling through an App or VoIP Service
VoIP (Voice-over-IP) services and apps allow you to make calls over the internet without using a traditional phone line. These services often offer lower rates than traditional phone carriers, especially for international calls.
To use a VoIP service, you will need to download the app or software to your phone or computer. Once you have created an account, you can add contacts and start making calls. Some popular VoIP services include Skype, WhatsApp, and Viber.
Using a SIM Card
If you are traveling to Mexico, you can purchase a local SIM card from a carrier such as Telcel, Movistar, or AT&T. This will give you a Mexican phone number that you can use to make and receive calls within Mexico. You can also use your SIM card to connect to the internet and use data services.
Using a Calling Card
Calling cards can be purchased from various retailers, such as convenience stores and gas stations. These cards allow you to make calls to specific countries at a discounted rate. To use a calling card, dial the access number provided on the card, followed by the phone number you wish to call.
Using a Hotel Phone
Most hotels in Mexico offer telephones in their rooms. These phones can be used to make local and international calls. However, the rates for using a hotel phone are often higher than using other methods.
Method | Cost | Convenience |
---|---|---|
VoIP Service | Low | High |
SIM Card | Moderate | Moderate |
Calling Card | Moderate | Moderate |
Hotel Phone | High | Low |
Setting Up Call Forwarding
Call forwarding allows you to automatically redirect incoming calls to a different number, such as a U.S. number when you’re in Mexico. To set up call forwarding, follow these steps:
To cancel call forwarding, dial ##21# and press the Send or Call key.
To check the status of call forwarding, dial *#21# and press the Send or Call key. You will hear a message indicating whether call forwarding is turned on or off.
Additional Notes:
Call Forwarding Code | Function |
---|---|
*21* | Set up call forwarding |
##21# | Cancel call forwarding |
*#21# | Check the status of call forwarding |
Avoiding Roaming Charges
Roaming charges can add up quickly, especially when calling from Mexico to the USA. To avoid these charges, there are a few things you can do:
If you have access to a Wi-Fi hotspot, you can use it to make calls using a VoIP app like Skype or WhatsApp. This will allow you to avoid roaming charges altogether.
If you’re staying in Mexico for an extended period of time, you can purchase a local SIM card from a Mexican mobile operator. This will give you a Mexican phone number that you can use to make calls to the USA at local rates.
Calling cards are another way to avoid roaming charges. You can purchase a calling card from a convenience store or gas station, and then use it to make calls from a landline or payphone.
If you have access to a Wi-Fi hotspot, you can use it to make calls using a VoIP app like Skype or WhatsApp. This will allow you to avoid roaming charges altogether.
If you’re staying in Mexico for an extended period of time, you can purchase a local SIM card from a Mexican mobile operator. This will give you a Mexican phone number that you can use to make calls to the USA at local rates.
Calling cards are another way to avoid roaming charges. You can purchase a calling card from a convenience store or gas station, and then use it to make calls from a landline or payphone.
Some carriers offer special plans or discounts for calling from Mexico to the USA. Check with your carrier to see if they offer any plans that could save you money.
VoIP services like Skype and WhatsApp allow you to make calls over the internet. This can be a great way to save money on international calls, as the rates are often much lower than traditional phone calls.
A virtual phone number is a phone number that is not associated with a physical location. You can get a virtual phone number from a service like Google Voice or Skype. This will allow you to make and receive calls from the USA using your Mexican phone.
If you’re going to be in a remote area where there is no cell phone service, you can rent a satellite phone. Satellite phones are expensive, but they can be a lifesaver if you need to make a call in an emergency.
Additional tips for avoiding roaming charges
Here are some additional tips for avoiding roaming charges:
When you’re not using your data, turn off your data roaming to avoid being charged for data usage. You can usually do this in your phone’s settings.
Some apps can use data even when you’re not using them. Be careful about which apps you install and make sure to disable background data usage for any apps that you don’t need.
Keep track of your data usage to make sure that you’re not going over your limit. You can usually do this in your phone’s settings.
If you’re not sure how to avoid roaming charges, contact your carrier for help. They can provide you with more information about your plan and help you find ways to save money.
By following these tips, you can avoid roaming charges and save money on your international calls.
Troubleshooting Common Errors
1. I’m getting a busy signal.
This can happen if the number you are calling is busy or if there is a problem with the phone line. Try calling back later or checking if there are any service outages in your area.
2. I’m getting a message that the number I’m calling is not in service.
This can happen if the number you are calling has been disconnected or if the phone has been turned off. You can try calling back later or looking up the number online to see if it is still in service.
3. I’m hearing a lot of static or interference.
This can be caused by a number of factors, such as a bad phone line or interference from other electronic devices. Try moving to a different location or using a different phone to see if the problem persists.
4. I’m not able to hear the person I’m calling.
This can happen if the microphone on either your phone or the other person’s phone is not working properly. You can try switching to a different phone or using a headset to see if the problem resolves.
5. I’m not able to speak to the person I’m calling.
This can happen if the speaker on either your phone or the other person’s phone is not working properly. You can try switching to a different phone or using a headset to see if the problem resolves.
6. The call keeps dropping.
This can happen if there is a problem with the phone line or if the signal is weak. You can try moving to a different location or using a different phone to see if the problem persists.
7. I’m getting a message that the call is being blocked.
This can happen if the number you are calling is blocked by your carrier or by the person you are calling. You can try contacting your carrier or the person you are calling to see if the block can be removed.
8. I’m getting a message that the call is not authorized.
This can happen if you are calling a number that requires authorization. You can try contacting the number’s owner or your carrier to see if the authorization can be granted.
9. I’m getting a message that the call is not allowed.
This can happen if the number you are calling is not allowed to be called from your location. You can try contacting your carrier to see if the restriction can be lifted.
How to Call Mexico to USA
To call Mexico from the USA, follow these steps:
City | Area Code |
---|---|
Mexico City | 55 |
Guadalajara | 33 |
Monterrey | 81 |
Additional Tips for Making International Calls
Here are some additional tips for making international calls:
10. Use a calling card or VoIP provider
Calling cards and VoIP providers can often offer lower rates than traditional phone companies. Do some research to find the best option for your needs. Many calling card companies also offer a free calling card to new customers, so you can try before you buy. VoIP providers typically offer unlimited calling plans that include international calls, so if you make a lot of international calls, a VoIP plan may be a good option for you.
How To Call Mexico To Usa
Calling Mexico from the USA is a simple process that can be completed in just a few steps. First, you will need to dial the exit code for the USA, which is 011. Next, you will need to dial the country code for Mexico, which is 52. Finally, you will need to dial the phone number of the person you are calling. For example, if you are calling a landline in Mexico City, you would dial 011 + 52 + 55 + (the phone number). If you are calling a mobile phone in Mexico, you would dial 011 + 52 + 1 + (the phone number).
There are a few things to keep in mind when calling Mexico from the USA. First, you will need to make sure that your phone plan includes international calling. Second, you may need to pay a per-minute fee for international calls. Finally, it is important to be aware of the time difference between the USA and Mexico. Mexico is one hour behind the USA during standard time and two hours behind the USA during daylight saving time.
People Also Ask About How To Call Mexico To Usa
How much does it cost to call Mexico from the USA?
The cost of calling Mexico from the USA will vary depending on your phone plan and the type of call you are making. However, you can expect to pay between $0.10 and $0.50 per minute for international calls.
How can I call Mexico for free?
There are a few ways to call Mexico for free. One option is to use a VoIP service, such as Skype or WhatsApp. Another option is to use a calling card. Finally, you can also use a mobile app that offers free international calling, such as Rebtel or Talkatone.
What is the time difference between the USA and Mexico?
Mexico is one hour behind the USA during standard time and two hours behind the USA during daylight saving time.