Calling the United States from Mexico with your cell phone can be a confusing and expensive process if you don’t know what you’re doing. But don’t worry, we’re here to help. In this article, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about calling the US from Mexico, including the different ways to do it, the costs involved, and some tips for saving money.
The easiest way to call the US from Mexico is to use a calling card. Calling cards can be purchased at most convenience stores and pharmacies in Mexico, and they typically offer the best rates for international calls. To use a calling card, simply dial the access number for your calling card provider, followed by the phone number you want to call. You will then be prompted to enter your calling card number and PIN. Once you have entered your information, you will be connected to the other party.
Another option for calling the US from Mexico is to use a VoIP service. VoIP (Voice over Internet Protocol) services allow you to make phone calls over the internet. This can be a great option if you have a strong internet connection, as VoIP calls are typically much cheaper than traditional phone calls. To use a VoIP service, you will need to create an account with the provider and download their software. Once you have set up your account, you can simply dial the phone number you want to call and you will be connected.
Dialing the US Country Code
To call the United States from Mexico using a cell phone, you must begin by dialing the exit code for Mexico, which is **00**. After dialing the exit code, enter the **US country code**, which is **1**. The US country code tells the international network that you are calling a number in the United States.
Once you have dialed the US country code, you can then dial the area code of the city or region you are calling followed by the seven-digit phone number. For example, to call a number in New York City, you would dial 00 1 212, followed by the seven-digit phone number.
Below is a table summarizing the steps for dialing the US country code from Mexico:
| Step | Code |
|---|---|
| Exit Code (Mexico) | 00 |
| US Country Code | 1 |
Implementing the US Area Code
To call the United States from Mexico using your US cell phone, you need to dial the following steps:
- Dial the exit code for Mexico: +52
- Dial the US country code: 1
- Dial the US area code: For example, for New York City, dial 212.
- Dial the local phone number: For example, for a landline with the number 555-1234, dial 555-1234.
Here is a table summarizing the dialing sequence:
| Step | Dial |
|---|---|
| 1 | +52 |
| 2 | 1 |
| 3 | US area code (e.g., 212 for New York City) |
| 4 | Local phone number (e.g., 555-1234) |
For example, to call a landline in New York City with the number 555-1234, you would dial:
+52 1 212 555-1234
Using a Calling Card
If you’re not comfortable dialing directly from your cell phone, you can use a calling card to make calls to Mexico. Calling cards are available for purchase at most convenience stores and drugstores. You’ll need to purchase a card that is specific to Mexico, and then follow the instructions on the card to make your call.
Including the Seven-Digit Phone Number
When dialing a landline in Mexico from your cell phone, you need to include the seven-digit phone number. The seven-digit phone number is the local phone number of the person you’re calling, without the area code. For example, if you’re calling a landline in Mexico City, you would dial the seven-digit phone number followed by the area code (55).
The following table provides information about how to dial a seven-digit phone number in Mexico from your cell phone:
| Country Code | Area Code | Seven-Digit Phone Number |
|---|---|---|
| 52 | (Optional) | 123-4567 |
Dialing a Cell Phone
To call a cell phone in Mexico from your cell phone, you need to dial the following:
- The country code for Mexico (52)
- The area code for the state in Mexico you’re calling (optional)
- The cell phone number of the person you’re calling, including the area code
For example, if you’re calling a cell phone in Mexico City, you would dial:
52 (optional area code) 123-4567
Utilizing the Plus (+) Symbol
The “plus” symbol (+) is the key to making international calls from Mexico using your US cell phone. To dial a number in Mexico from your US phone, follow these steps:
1.
Enter the “plus” symbol (+)
Start by pressing the “plus” symbol (+) on your phone’s keypad. This will indicate that you’re making an international call.
2.
Add the country code (52 for Mexico)
After the “plus” symbol, enter the country code for Mexico, which is “52”.
3.
Remove the leading zero (if any) from the local number
Mexican phone numbers often start with a leading zero, but this needs to be removed when dialing from the US. For example, if the local number in Mexico is 055 1234 5678, you would remove the zero and enter it as 55 1234 5678.
4.
Enter the local number
Finally, enter the local phone number in Mexico, without the leading zero. Once you’ve entered the full number, including the “plus” symbol, country code, and local number, you can proceed to dial the call as usual.
Example:
| US Cell Phone | Mexican Phone Number |
|---|---|
| +52 55 1234 5678 | 55 1234 5678 (local) |
Alternative Dialing Methods
If you encounter issues with the methods above, try the following alternative dialing methods:
Using the Exit Code
Dial the international exit code specific to Mexico (+52) followed by the seven-digit Mexican number (e.g., +52 555 123 4567).
Dialing the Country Code
Dial “011,” the US exit code, followed by the Mexican country code (52) and the seven-digit Mexican number (e.g., 011 52 555 123 4567).
Using the Global Calling Prefix
Dial the global calling prefix (*111) followed by the Mexican country code (52), the area code (without the leading zero), and the six-digit local number (e.g., *111 52 55 123 456).
Calling a Landline
For landlines, dial the Mexican country code (52), the area code (without the leading zero), and the seven-digit local number (e.g., 52 55 123 4567).
Calling a Mobile Number
For mobile numbers, follow the same steps as dialing a landline, but ensure the number starts with the mobile prefix (e.g., 55, 81, 33). The resulting format would be: 52 [Mobile Prefix] [Local Number].
| Dialing Method | Format |
|---|---|
| US Exit Code | +52 [Mexican Number] |
| Country Code | 011 52 [Mexican Number] |
| Global Calling Prefix | *111 52 [Area Code] [Local Number] |
| Landline | 52 [Area Code] [Local Number] |
| Mobile Number | 52 [Mobile Prefix] [Local Number] |
Roaming Considerations and Fees
Activating Roaming
To enable roaming on your cell phone, you may need to contact your US carrier. They can provide you with instructions on how to activate the service and the associated fees.
Coverage Availability
Before traveling, check with your carrier to confirm coverage in Mexico. Not all carriers have agreements with Mexican providers, and coverage can vary depending on the location.
Roaming Rates
Roaming rates vary widely between carriers. Check with your carrier for specific rates and any additional charges that may apply, such as per-minute or per-megabyte fees.
Wi-Fi and Data Usage
Consider using Wi-Fi whenever possible to avoid roaming charges. Ensure that your data roaming is disabled to prevent unintentional usage and high bills.
Calling from Mexico to the US
When making calls from Mexico to the US, you will need to dial the exit code “001” followed by the US country code “1” and the phone number.
Calling from the US to Mexico
To call Mexico from the US, you will need to dial the exit code “011” followed by the Mexican country code “52” and the phone number. Additionally, you may need to include the area code, which is typically three digits.
| Country Code | Exit Code |
|---|---|
| Mexico | 52 |
| United States | 1 |
Utilizing a Local Operator
If you’re unable to dial a number directly, consider using a local operator. This service is typically available at public pay phones or hotel front desks. To use this method:
- Find a local operator or ask for assistance at a hotel front desk.
- Inform the operator of the number you’d like to call.
- Provide the operator with your calling card number or credit card information if necessary.
- Wait for the operator to complete the connection.
Note that using a local operator may incur additional fees. Here’s a table summarizing the process:
| Step | Action |
|---|---|
| 1 | Locate a local operator or request assistance from a hotel front desk. |
| 2 | Provide the operator with the number you wish to call. |
| 3 | Pay any required fees using a calling card or credit card. |
| 4 | Wait for the operator to establish the connection. |
Employing a Calling Card
Calling cards provide an economical method to make international calls. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to use a calling card:
1. Purchase a Calling Card
Obtain a calling card from a reputable provider. Choose a card with competitive rates and features.
2. Register Your Card
Register your calling card by following the instructions provided by the provider. This typically involves creating an account and setting up a PIN.
3. Dial the Access Number
Dial the international access number for Mexico, which is 001 from the US and Canada.
4. Enter Your PIN
Once you hear the prompt, enter your calling card PIN.
5. Dial the Destination Number
Enter the phone number you wish to call in Mexico, including the area code without the leading zero.
6. Dial the Verification Number
If requested, dial the verification number provided by the calling card system.
7. Check Your Balance
Keep track of your remaining balance to avoid unexpected charges. Dial the balance check number to inquire about your balance.
8. Troubleshooting Tips
If you encounter any issues while using a calling card, consider the following troubleshooting tips:
| Problem | Solution |
|---|---|
| Incorrect PIN | Verify your PIN or reset it if necessary. |
| Dialing tone not heard | Ensure you are dialing the correct access number and that your phone is configured for international calls. |
| Call dropped | Check your balance or contact the calling card provider to troubleshoot any connectivity issues. |
Using a VoIP Service
VoIP (Voice over Internet Protocol) is another way to make international calls from your mobile phone. With VoIP, you use an app or software that connects you to a phone network over the internet. This can be a great option if you have a strong internet connection and don’t want to pay roaming charges.
Here are the steps on how to use a VoIP service to call Mexico from your US cell phone:
- Choose a VoIP service provider. There are many different VoIP providers available, so it’s important to compare their rates and features before choosing one. Some popular VoIP providers include Skype, Google Voice, and Viber.
- Download the VoIP app. Once you’ve chosen a VoIP provider, you’ll need to download their app on your cell phone.
- Create an account. Once you’ve downloaded the VoIP app, you’ll need to create an account. This usually involves providing your name, email address, and a password.
- Add funds to your account. In order to make calls, you’ll need to add funds to your VoIP account. You can usually do this with a credit card or debit card.
- Dial the number you want to call. Once you have funds in your account, you can start making calls. To call Mexico from the US, you’ll need to dial the following:
- 011 (the international exit code)
- 52 (the country code for Mexico)
- Enter the 10-digit phone number in Mexico after the 52 you dialed
- Press the call button.
- Enjoy Your Call: Once you’ve dialed the number, your call will be connected. You can now start talking to the person you’re calling.
| Country | Country Code |
|---|---|
| US | 1 |
| Canada | 1 |
| Mexico | 52 |
Verifying Connection and Charges
Connecting Your US Cell Phone to a Mexican Network
To verify your connection, ensure that your phone is unlocked and compatible with Mexican GSM networks. Check with your US carrier to confirm if they offer roaming services in Mexico.
Charges for Calls from Mexico with a US Cell Phone
The charges for calling from Mexico with a US cell phone vary depending on your carrier and roaming plan.
Typically, the following charges apply:
| Charge Type | Cost |
|---|---|
| Incoming Calls | Varies based on carrier and roaming plan |
| Outgoing Calls | Varies based on carrier and roaming plan |
| Data Usage | Varies based on carrier and roaming plan |
| Additional Charges | May include fees for connecting to a Mexican network or exceeding roaming limits |
Tips to Reduce Roaming Charges
To minimize roaming charges, consider the following tips:
- Purchase a local SIM card from a Mexican provider.
- Use Wi-Fi for data and voice calls whenever possible.
- Check your carrier’s website for specific roaming rates and packages.
- Keep track of your data usage to avoid exceeding limits.
- Consider purchasing a travel roaming plan that offers a set number of minutes or data for a fixed price.
How To Call Us From Mexico With Us Cell Phone
Calling the United States from Mexico with your cell phone is a simple process. Here are the steps:
- Dial the exit code for Mexico, which is 011.
- Dial the country code for the United States, which is 1.
- Dial the area code of the person you are calling.
- Dial the phone number of the person you are calling.
For example, to call a number in New York City, you would dial 011-1-212-555-1212.
People Also Ask About How To Call Us From Mexico With Us Cell Phone
How much does it cost to call the United States from Mexico?
The cost of calling the United States from Mexico varies depending on your cell phone plan. Most plans offer a certain number of minutes of international calling per month, after which you will be charged a per-minute rate. You can check with your cell phone provider to find out the specific rates for your plan.
Can I use my US cell phone in Mexico?
Yes, you can use your US cell phone in Mexico. However, you may need to purchase a roaming plan from your cell phone provider in order to avoid paying high roaming charges. You can check with your cell phone provider to find out the specific rates for roaming in Mexico.
How do I dial a cell phone in Mexico from the United States?
To dial a cell phone in Mexico from the United States, you will need to dial the exit code for the United States, which is 011, followed by the country code for Mexico, which is 52, followed by the area code of the city you are calling, followed by the phone number of the person you are calling. For example, to call a cell phone in Mexico City, you would dial 011-52-55-555-1212.
