10 Easy Steps to Call Mexico from the US

Calling Mexico from the US
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Calling Mexico from the US may seem like a daunting task, but it’s actually quite simple. With the advent of modern technology, there are numerous ways to stay connected with friends and family across borders. Whether you prefer traditional phone calls, convenient text messages, or video chats, there’s an option that suits your needs. Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you navigate the process of calling Mexico from the US, ensuring crystal-clear communication every time.

International calling codes play a crucial role in connecting calls across borders. To call Mexico from the US, you’ll need to dial the exit code “011” followed by Mexico’s country code “52.” Once you’ve entered these digits, you can proceed with dialing the local phone number in Mexico. For example, if you want to call a landline in Mexico City, you would dial 011-52-55, followed by the eight-digit local number. However, if you’re calling a mobile phone in Mexico, you would replace the initial “55” with the appropriate mobile phone area code. Understanding these dialing conventions will ensure your calls reach their intended destination seamlessly.

In addition to traditional phone calls, there are various cost-effective options available for staying connected with loved ones in Mexico. Many mobile service providers offer international calling plans that bundle a certain number of minutes at discounted rates. Text messaging is another budget-friendly alternative, especially for sending quick updates or short messages. If you prefer face-to-face communication, video calling platforms like Skype, FaceTime, and WhatsApp allow you to connect with friends and family in real-time, regardless of their location. These platforms offer both audio and video capabilities, enabling you to see and hear your loved ones as if they were right there with you.

Dialing the Exit Code

When calling Mexico from the United States, you must first dial the exit code, which is 011. The exit code indicates to the phone system that you are making an international call and that the following numbers are the international dialing code and country code.

Steps for Dialing the Exit Code:

1. Dial the exit code “011” on your phone keypad.
2. Wait for a short pause or beep to indicate that the international dialing system has been initiated.
3. Continue dialing the rest of the phone number, including the country code (52 for Mexico) and the local area code and phone number.

Example:

To call a landline in Mexico City with the phone number 555-1234, you would dial:

011 – 52 – 55 – 555-1234

International Dialing Format:

The general format for dialing an international number is as follows:

Symbol Description
011 Exit code
52 Mexico’s country code
(area code) Local area code (if applicable)
(local number) Local phone number

Entering the Country Code

When calling Mexico from the United States, you must first dial the exit code for the US, which is 011. Next, you will need to enter the country code for Mexico, which is 52. For example, if you are calling a landline in Mexico City, you would dial 011 + 52 + 55 + [local phone number].

It’s important to note that the country code may vary depending on the type of phone number you are calling. For example, if you are calling a mobile phone in Mexico, you may need to dial a different country code, such as 044 or 045.

Mexico Country Code Table

Phone Type Country Code
Landline 52
Mobile (Telcel) 044
Mobile (Movistar) 045

Once you have entered the country code, you can then dial the rest of the phone number, including the area code and local number. For example, if you are calling a landline in Mexico City with the phone number 555-1212, you would dial the following:

011 + 52 + 55 + 555-1212

Dropping the Leading Zero

For many years, when dialing a phone number in Mexico from the United States, you had to dial a leading zero before the area code. However, this is no longer necessary. In 1997, Mexico implemented a new dialing plan that eliminated the need for the leading zero when dialing from the United States. This change was made to simplify dialing and to make it more consistent with other countries.

As a result of this change, you can now dial a phone number in Mexico from the United States by simply dialing the area code followed by the seven-digit local number. For example, to call a number in Mexico City, you would dial 55 followed by the seven-digit local number. You do not need to dial the leading zero.

Here is a summary of how to dial a phone number in Mexico from the United States:

Step 1: Dial the exit code 011
Step 2: Dial the country code 52
Step 3: Dial the area code Omit the leading zero
Step 4: Dial the local number Seven digits

For example, to call the number 555-1234 in Mexico City, you would dial 011 52 55 555-1234.

Using a Plus Sign (+)

To dial Mexico from the US using a plus sign (+), follow these steps:

1. Dial the exit code for the US, which is 011.

2. Dial the country code for Mexico, which is 52.

3. Dial the area code of the city you’re calling (see table below).

4. Dial the local phone number of the person you’re calling.

**Table of Area Codes for Major Cities in Mexico**

City Area Code
Mexico City 55
Monterrey 81
Guadalajara 33
Tijuana 664
CancĂșn 998

**Example:**

To call a landline in Mexico City, you would dial: 011 + 52 + 55 + [local phone number]

Calling from a Landline or Cell Phone

Dialing from a Landline

To call Mexico from a landline in the United States, follow these steps:

  1. Dial 011, the international access code.
  2. Enter 52, the country code for Mexico.
  3. Add the area code of the Mexican city you’re calling.
  4. Dial the local phone number.

Dialing from a Cell Phone

The process for dialing from a cell phone is similar.

  1. Enter the Plus (+) symbol instead of 011.
  2. Follow steps 2-4 as outlined above.

Toll-Free Numbers

If you’re calling a toll-free number in Mexico from the United States, dial 001 instead of 011.

Additional Options

Pre-Paid Calling Cards

Prepaid calling cards can be purchased at stores or online. They offer a more convenient and often cheaper alternative to traditional phone plans.

VoIP Services

VoIP (Voice over Internet Protocol) services, such as Skype or Google Voice, allow you to make calls over the internet using a computer, smartphone, or other device. VoIP calls can be more cost-effective than traditional phone calls, especially for long-distance or international calls.

Cost of Calls

The cost of calls to Mexico varies depending on your phone provider and plan. Consult with your provider or refer to the following table for approximate rates:

Provider Cost Per Minute
AT&T $0.25 – $0.40
Verizon $0.30 – $0.50
T-Mobile $0.10 (with Simple Global plan)
Skype $0.022

Making a Direct or Indirect Call

Making a Direct Call

A direct call involves dialing the Mexican phone number directly from the United States. To do this, you need:

  • The Mexican area code (e.g., 55 for Mexico City)
  • The local phone number (e.g., xxx-xxxx-xxxx)

Example: To call a number in Mexico City, dial: 011 + 55 + xxx-xxxx-xxxx

Making an Indirect Call

An indirect call is made through a third-party service, such as a calling card or VoIP provider. This method may offer lower rates than direct calling.

  1. Obtain a Calling Card or VoIP Account: Purchase a calling card from a store or sign up for a VoIP service online.
  2. Dial the Access Number: Dial the access number provided by the calling card or VoIP provider.
  3. Enter Your PIN or Account Details: Follow the instructions provided to enter your calling card PIN or VoIP account details.
  4. Dial the Mexican Phone Number: Once you’re connected, dial the Mexican phone number as follows:
<table>
  <tr>
    <th>Number Format</th>
    <th>Example</th>
  </tr>
  <tr>
    <td>00 + 52 + Area Code + Local Number</td>
    <td>00 + 52 + 55 + xxx-xxxx-xxxx</td>
  </tr>
  <tr>
    <td>011 + 52 + Area Code + Local Number</td>
    <td>011 + 52 + 55 + xxx-xxxx-xxxx</td>
  </tr>
  <tr>
    <td>+52 + Area Code + Local Number</td>
    <td>+52 + 55 + xxx-xxxx-xxxx</td>
  </tr>
</table>

Tips for Indirect Calling:

  • Dial slowly and carefully to avoid errors.
  • Check the calling card or VoIP provider’s terms and conditions for potential fees or charges.
  • Use a VoIP provider with a strong network for clear and reliable calls.
  • Consider using a calling app or service that offers low rates and additional features.

Navigating Different Time Zones

When calling Mexico from the US, it’s crucial to consider the significant time zone differences. The following table outlines the time differences between major US time zones and Mexico City:

US Time Zone Time Difference to Mexico City
Eastern Time (ET) 1 hour ahead
Central Time (CT) 1 hour behind
Mountain Time (MT) 2 hours behind
Pacific Time (PT) 3 hours behind

To avoid inconvenience, ensure you account for the time difference when dialing Mexico. If you’re calling from ET, for instance, remember that Mexico City is 1 hour behind. So, if it’s 1 pm in ET, it will be 12 pm in Mexico City.

Double-checking the time difference before making your call can save you from calling at an inappropriate hour or missing valuable conversations due to time confusion.

Avoiding Hidden Fees

Service Call Duration Cost
Vonage World 1 minute $0.02
Google Fi 1 minute $0.10
Skype 1 minute $0.022
AT&T International Call Plan 1 minute $0.49

To avoid hidden fees when calling Mexico from the US, consider the following tips:

  1. Choose a budget-friendly service: Opt for a service that offers low per-minute rates or unlimited calling plans to Mexico like Vonage World or Skype.
  2. Check for add-ons and surcharges: Read the fine print of your phone plan to ensure there are no hidden charges for international calls, such as connection fees or roaming charges.
  3. Use Wi-Fi or data: If possible, make calls using Wi-Fi or data to avoid using your cellular minutes and incurring long-distance charges.
  4. Consider a calling card: If you don’t plan on making frequent calls, consider purchasing a calling card specifically designed for international calls.
  5. Be aware of peak times: Calls made during peak times, such as evenings and weekends, may incur higher rates.
  6. Check your call history: Regularly review your phone bill or call log to monitor your call charges and identify any unexpected fees.
  7. Contact your service provider: If you have any questions or concerns about calling Mexico, don’t hesitate to contact your service provider for assistance.
  8. Do your research: Before choosing a service, thoroughly compare different providers and plans to find the best option for your needs and budget.
  9. Saving Money on International Calls

    There are several ways to save money on international calls:

    • Use a calling card: Calling cards can be purchased from many retail stores and online. They offer per-minute rates that are often lower than those charged by phone companies.
    • Use a VoIP service: VoIP (Voice over Internet Protocol) services allow you to make phone calls over the internet. This can be a cost-effective option, especially for calls to other VoIP users.
    • Use a mobile app: There are many mobile apps that allow you to make international calls at low rates. These apps typically use VoIP technology.
    • Call during off-peak hours: Phone rates are often lower during off-peak hours, such as evenings and weekends. If possible, try to schedule your calls for these times.
    • Use a landline: Landlines typically offer lower per-minute rates than cell phones. If you have a landline, use it to make international calls whenever possible.
    • Check your phone plan: Some phone plans include international calling minutes. Check with your phone carrier to see if your plan offers this feature.
    • Use a callback service: Callback services allow you to receive a call from a foreign number for a local rate. This can be a cost-effective option if you need to receive calls from Mexico.
    • Use a prepaid phone card: Prepaid phone cards can be purchased from many retail stores and online. They offer a set number of minutes for a fixed price. This can be a good option if you only need to make a few calls to Mexico.
    • Use a virtual phone number: Virtual phone numbers allow you to receive calls from Mexico without giving out your real phone number. This can be a good option if you want to keep your personal phone number private.
    Method Cost per minute
    Calling card $0.10-$0.20
    VoIP service $0.05-$0.15
    Mobile app $0.10-$0.20
    Landline $0.05-$0.15
    Callback service $0.05-$0.15
    Prepaid phone card $0.10-$0.20
    Virtual phone number $0.10-$0.20

    Landline to Landline

    To call a landline in Mexico from the US, follow these steps:

    1. Dial 011, the exit code for the US.
    2. Dial 52, the country code for Mexico.
    3. Dial the area code of the city you’re calling (see table below).
    4. Dial the local phone number.

    Area Codes

    Here are some of the most common area codes in Mexico:

    City Area Code
    Mexico City 55
    Guadalajara 33
    Monterrey 81
    Tijuana 664

    Troubleshooting Common Call Issues

    1. Can’t hear the person you’re calling.

    • Check your phone’s volume settings.
    • Try calling a different number to see if the problem is with the line.
    • Contact your phone service provider for assistance.

    2. Call keeps getting dropped.

    • Check your signal strength.
    • Try moving to a different location with better reception.
    • Contact your phone service provider to report the issue.

    3. Getting an error message when you call.

    • Check the error message and follow the instructions provided.
    • Try calling a different number to see if the problem is with the line.
    • Contact your phone service provider for assistance.

    4. Can’t make calls to Mexico from your mobile phone.

    • Make sure you have international calling enabled on your account.
    • Check your signal strength.
    • Try moving to a different location with better reception.
    • Contact your phone service provider for assistance.

    5. Can’t receive calls from Mexico on your mobile phone.

    • Make sure you have roaming enabled on your account.
    • Check your signal strength.
    • Try moving to a different location with better reception.
    • Contact your phone service provider for assistance.

    6. Long distance charges.

    • International calls from the US to Mexico can be expensive.
    • Consider using a calling card or VoIP service to save money.

    7. Time difference.

    • Mexico is in the Central Time Zone, which is one hour behind the Eastern Time Zone.
    • Keep this in mind when scheduling calls.

    8. Language barrier.

    • Spanish is the official language of Mexico.
    • If you don’t speak Spanish, you may need to use a language translation service.

    9. Emergency numbers.

    • The emergency number in Mexico is 911.
    • You can also call the US embassy in Mexico City at (55) 5080-2000.

    10. Additional tips.

    • When calling Mexico from the US, you may need to dial an exit code and a country code.
    • The exit code for the US is 011.
    • The country code for Mexico is 52.
    • Area codes in Mexico vary by region.
    • To find the area code for the city you’re calling, refer to the table above.
    • How To Call Mexico From Us

      To call Mexico from the United States, you will need to dial the following numbers:

      1. Dial 011 – This is the exit code for the United States.

      2. Dial 52 – This is the country code for Mexico.

      3. Dial the area code for the city you are calling.

      4. Dial the local phone number.

      For example, to call a landline in Mexico City, you would dial:

      011 52 55 12345678

      To call a mobile phone in Mexico, you would dial:

      011 52 1 12345678

      People also ask about How To Call Mexico From Us

      Is it expensive to call Mexico from the US?

      The cost of calling Mexico from the US will vary depending on your phone service provider. However, there are a number of affordable options available, such as using a calling card or VoIP service.

      Can I call Mexico from the US with a cell phone?

      Yes, you can call Mexico from the US with a cell phone. However, you may need to purchase an international calling plan from your service provider.

      What is the best way to call Mexico from the US?

      The best way to call Mexico from the US will depend on your individual needs and budget. However, some of the most popular options include using a calling card, VoIP service, or your cell phone with an international calling plan.