To call a Mexico cell phone from a US cell phone, dial +52 followed by the 10-digit Mexican mobile number. This is the correct international dialing format that works across all US carriers.
How to call a Mexico cell phone from the US
The exact dialing format is +52 plus the full 10-digit number. The FCC specifies that mobile callers should use the “+” sign, then Mexico’s country code 52, then the complete 10-digit number including area code. AT&T gives the same basic format: “+52, followed by the area code and local number.” This format applies specifically to Mexican cell phones, not landlines. Area codes in Mexico can vary in length from two to four digits. When dialing a Mexico cell phone, remove any leading '0' from the area code. As an alternate method, you can dial the international access code 011 first, then 52, then the area code and number. For example, to call 555-123-4567, you would dial 011-52-555-123-4567.
Step-by-step dialing instructions for iPhone and Android
Follow these steps on your phone’s keypad:
- Open the Phone app and tap Keypad.
- On iPhone, press and hold the 0 key until a “+” appears. On Android, the standard international sequence is the “+” sign, then 52, then the 10-digit number.
- After the “+”, dial 52, then enter the 10-digit Mexican mobile number (including area code).
- Press the call button.
If the number is stored in your contacts, iPhone can add the correct international prefix automatically when Dial Assist is turned on. To enable it, go to Settings > Phone > Dial Assist.
Understanding international calling plans and carrier control
International calling and plans are controlled entirely by your carrier, not by any phone setting. Apple’s support material states that international calling is carrier-controlled, and charges or access depend on your plan. Carrier pages for Mexico calls use the same dialing format, but eligibility and billing depend on the customer’s international long-distance plan. There is no iPhone-specific setting to enable international calling; the carrier account must support it. Check your carrier account for international calling availability before dialing.
For example, AT&T will let you roam in Mexico and Canada for free on certain plans, but this benefit depends on your specific plan, not on changing any phone setting.
Using internet-based apps as an alternative
Apps like WhatsApp, Skype, or Google Voice can be used as alternatives to traditional phone calls. These services use a data connection (Wi-Fi or cellular data) rather than your carrier’s international calling plan. To call a Mexico cell phone through an app, you typically enter the country code (+52) followed by the 10-digit number within the app. Call quality depends on your internet connection, and charges may apply for calls to phone numbers (as opposed to app-to-app calls). No special phone settings are needed beyond having the app installed and a working data connection.
Frequently Asked Questions
Will I be charged extra for calling a Mexico cell phone from my US cell phone?
Yes, charges depend on your carrier plan. Some plans include international calling or free roaming in Mexico, while others charge per minute. Check with your carrier before dialing to avoid unexpected fees.
Can I send a text message to a Mexico cell phone from the US?
Yes, most US cell phone plans include international text messaging. However, charges may apply for sending or receiving texts to and from Mexican numbers. Verify your plan’s international texting rates with your carrier.
Why does my call fail when I dial +52 and the 10-digit number?
If the call fails, first confirm your carrier account has international calling enabled. Then verify you are dialing exactly “+52” followed by the full 10-digit number (including area code). Do not add any extra digits like “011” before the “+”. If it still fails, contact your carrier for assistance.
What is the best time to call Mexico cell phones from the US?
Consider time zone differences between the US and Mexico. Mexico spans multiple time zones, so check the local time for the specific area you are calling to avoid calling too early or too late.
For the wider topic, see international calling and plans.
