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Although placing an international call to Mexico from Canada might initially seem intimidating, it becomes simple once you know the correct dialing procedure. This guide from Mytour will show you how to contact both mobile and landline numbers in Mexico, whether you're using a phone, the Internet, an app, or video calling services.
Instructions
Making the Call
Start by dialing 011, the international access code for calls outside of Canada. When calling from a landline in Canada, you must first enter this code to place an international call. For both Canada and the United States, the access code is 011. Without entering this code, you won't be able to reach Mexico or any other international destination.
- If you're calling from a cell phone, the international access symbol is the “+” sign. Be sure to dial this first before proceeding with the rest of the number.
Dial 52, the country code for Mexico. Once you've entered the exit code for international calls from Canada, the next step is to dial Mexico’s country code, which is 52. This ensures your phone is set to connect to a number in Mexico. Using the wrong country code can cause the call to fail or result in connecting to a different country entirely.
- If you mistakenly dial the wrong country code, simply hang up and try again, starting with the Canadian exit code (011).
Enter the area code for the region in Mexico you're calling. Mexico is divided into several regions, each with its own area code. Some areas have 2-digit codes, while others have 3-digit codes. It’s essential to enter the correct area code before dialing the full phone number.
- For mobile numbers in Mexico, the area code will always start with a 1.
Dial the full Mexican phone number after the area code. Once you've entered the exit code (011 or + for cell phones), country code (52), and area code, it's time to dial the local phone number. Mexican phone numbers consist of 8 digits following the area code, typically formatted as two sets of four digits. Give it a moment for the call to connect.
Example Call from Canada to Chihuahua, Mexico
Dial 011 52 614 1234 5678: The “011” represents the exit code from Canada, “52” is the country code for Mexico, “614” is the area code for Chihuahua, and the remaining 8 digits are the local phone number you wish to reach.
Selecting Your Calling Method
Contact your service provider to inquire about international call rates. Most phone companies don't offer free international calls unless you're on a specific plan that includes them. Typically, they charge basic rates that can vary between $1 and $10 per minute when making calls to other countries. Before calling Mexico from Canada, it's a good idea to check the rates so you're aware of the potential cost of the call.
- Get in touch with your phone provider or visit their website to learn about the basic rates.
- When calling internationally from a mobile phone, additional charges may apply, especially when dialing a landline.
- If you plan on making frequent international calls to Mexico, consider signing up for a calling plan that offers free or discounted rates.
Opt for calling a mobile phone in Mexico to reduce costs. Generally, when a mobile phone receives an international call, the owner of the mobile device is not charged. If the person you're reaching in Mexico has a cell phone, dialing that number instead of a landline could help you save on the expensive international rates typically charged for landline calls.
- In Mexico, mobile phone area codes always start with the number “1.”
Use a calling card instead of traditional phone service for cheaper calls to Mexico. Calling cards are a cost-effective way to place international calls at much lower rates than the standard charges from phone providers. Many prepaid calling cards are available, but ensure the card you select supports calls to Mexico. These cards can be purchased at convenience stores, pharmacies, or larger retail chains. Always review the terms, fees, and per-minute rates to ensure you're getting the best deal.
- Check the card’s expiration date to ensure you’ll use it before it expires.
- To make a call, dial the access number on the card, enter your PIN, and input the rest of the phone number starting with the exit and country codes.
- Track your usage so you know how much balance is remaining on your prepaid card.
- Many cards let you check your balance and even add more funds by calling customer service or using your debit/credit card online.
Tip: A lower-cost prepaid calling card doesn’t always mean it’s the best option! Compare the rates and terms of various cards before making a decision.
Use VoIP services to make cheaper calls to Mexico. Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) services like Vonage and Lingo use the internet to connect calls, providing a much more affordable way to reach Mexico from Canada compared to traditional phone rates. With VoIP, you can place calls from a computer, an internet-connected smartphone app, or even a regular landline phone if you have the appropriate adapter.
- If you're calling from a landline, you'll need a special VoIP adapter.
- When calling Mexico, you only need to dial the country code (52) before the phone number — there's no need to dial an exit code.
Use a smartphone app to make free calls to Mexico. There are several apps available for smartphones that enable free calls to Mexican numbers, bypassing your phone service provider's rates. Popular choices like Google Voice, WhatsApp, and Skype allow you to make calls without incurring charges, as long as you’re connected to the internet. While some apps may have a download fee, they generally provide free calling afterward.
- Note that some apps only let you contact other users of the same app and cannot be used to dial landlines or cell phones directly.
- If you’re calling a mobile or landline in Mexico through an app, make sure to dial the Canadian exit code (011) and Mexico's country code (52) before entering the area code and phone number.
- Social media platforms like Facebook also allow users to place calls to other users directly through their profiles.
