Mexico – Landlines and Mobile Phones

What are the international dialling codes for Mexico, and what are the area codes for the most popular expat destinations?

Mexico’s country calling code is +52, applicable everywhere from Mexico City to Cancún. To reach a Mexican number from another country, dial your international exit prefix (typically + or 00), then 52, followed by the complete ten-digit local number. There are no leading zeros attached to Mexican area codes or phone numbers, so nothing should be dropped or added when dialling from abroad.

Since August 3, 2019, Mexico has operated a standardised ten-digit telephone numbering system nationwide. Every phone number — landline or mobile — consists of ten digits, the first of which identifies one of eight main geographic regions. All ten digits must be dialled for every call, whether local, national, or international. This is simpler than systems like the UK’s, where callers drop a leading zero when dialling from outside the country; Mexico has no such leading zero to manage in the first place.

Mexico City uses the concise code 55, while Guadalajara (33) and Monterrey (81) also have two-digit codes. Cities of smaller size typically carry three-digit area codes. The table below shows area codes for the places where most expatriates settle:

When calling anyone in Mexico City, use the area code 55. A secondary code, 56, has also been introduced for Mexico City, so some numbers you encounter may begin with that prefix instead. A single state can cover many area codes — Jalisco, for instance, encompasses not only Guadalajara’s 33 but more than thirty additional codes across the state. For the complete national numbering plan, refer to the Instituto Federal de Telecomunicaciones (IFT), the body that oversees all telephone numbering in Mexico.

Bear time zones in mind before making calls: Mexico spans four of them. The majority of major cities, including Mexico City and Guadalajara, observe Central Time, whereas Tijuana follows Pacific Time. Quintana Roo state — home to Cancún — uses Southeast Time (UTC-5) year-round and does not observe daylight saving time.

Who are the major landline providers in Mexico, and how can you contact them?

Telmex is the dominant force in Mexico’s landline market. Originally a state-owned monopoly, it was privatised in the 1990s and, despite liberalisation, has retained an overwhelming share of the fixed-line sector — roughly 80% of the national landline market, climbing to around 90% in Mexico City alone. Beyond home telephone service, Telmex also runs mobile services under the Telcel brand and provides broadband under the Infinitum label.

The main landline and bundled home-services providers operating in Mexico are:

• Telmex — The dominant nationwide provider. Website: telmex.com (in Spanish). Customer service within Mexico: 800 123 1114. Fault reporting: dial 050. Telmex operates under the regional brand Telnor in Baja California.
• Izzi (formerly Cablevisión) — A cable-based provider offering landline, internet, and TV bundles, popular in major cities. Website: izzi.mx.
• Totalplay — A well-regarded alternative offering voice and internet services to residential customers. Website: totalplay.com.mx.
• Megacable — A regional cable and telephony operator with strong coverage in western and central Mexico. Website: megacable.com.mx.

While Telmex effectively holds a monopoly position in fixed-line telephony across much of the country, alternatives such as Axtel do exist in certain regions and states. In practice, however, Telmex will be the only realistic option for many residents, particularly outside the major urban centres.

In Baja California, the Telmex network operates under the Telnor brand name and remains the primary source of landline services, frequently bundled with internet access. For up-to-date tariffs and package details, visit each provider’s website directly, as pricing structures are updated regularly. The Instituto Federal de Telecomunicaciones (IFT) also publishes comparative service data for consumers.

A notable legal provision in Mexico holds that all landline-to-landline and landline-to-mobile calls made anywhere within the country are classified as local calls — meaning domestic long-distance charges do not apply to fixed-line users. This is a genuinely practical benefit for residents who regularly call contacts in other states.

Who are the major mobile phone providers in Mexico, and how can you contact them?

Mexico’s mobile sector is dominated by three main operators: Telcel, AT&T México, and Movistar. Telcel leads by a considerable margin, with the widest coverage reach including sparsely populated and remote regions. In Q1 2024, Telcel accounted for 68.9% of all mobile telephony revenues in Mexico. AT&T ranked second with a 20.7% revenue share, while Movistar trailed at approximately 7%.

• Telcel (telcel.com) — Mexico’s largest operator, offering the widest coverage including rural and remote areas. Customer service: 800 800 123. Telcel and AT&T México typically deliver the fastest 4G LTE speeds, averaging around 20–50 Mbps.
• AT&T México (att.com.mx) — Strong in urban centres, with competitive postpaid and prepaid plans. Customer service: 800 288 2020. In 2024, AT&T México reported revenue of USD 4.2 billion and 23.6 million customers.
• Movistar México (movistar.mx) — Part of the Telefónica group. AT&T México and Movistar perform reliably in cities such as Mexico City, Guadalajara, and Mérida, but coverage can deteriorate significantly in rural and more isolated locations. Customer service: 800 700 7000.
• BAIT — A budget MVNO (mobile virtual network operator) operated by Walmart México, running on Telcel’s network. Available at Bodega Aurrerá and Walmart stores. Website: bait.com.mx.

MVNOs operating in Mexico generally offer lower rates than the major carriers by leasing capacity from established networks such as Telcel, Movistar, or AT&T México. They primarily serve cost-conscious and prepaid customers. All four main operators provide both prepaid (prepago) and postpaid (pospago) options. Plan pricing changes frequently, so always consult the official provider websites for current offers.

5G expansion is progressing steadily in Mexico. Telcel reported around 12.8 million 5G users in mid-2024, having extended 5G service to 125 cities by April 2024. All major operators are actively investing in widening their 5G footprints.

How do I get a landline connected in Mexico?

The process for establishing a fixed-line telephone connection in Mexico depends on your chosen provider and the type of service required. In most cases, you can begin by contacting the provider via their website or customer service line to select a plan, after which some personal information and documentation will be needed for verification.

Follow these steps to set up a new landline in Mexico:

1. Choose a provider. In most areas Telmex will be your primary or only option for a standalone landline. In larger cities, Izzi, Totalplay, and Megacable offer bundled packages including landline, broadband, and TV. Browse each provider’s official website before making a commitment.
2. Contact the provider. New connections can be arranged at a Telmex shop, through their website, or by calling customer service. For those with limited Spanish or who prefer face-to-face help, visiting a store in person tends to be the most straightforward approach.
3. Prepare your documents. A government-issued photo document such as a passport is required for registration. Some providers will also ask for proof of address, so bring a utility bill or a copy of your rental agreement. Both homeowners and tenants can apply, though demonstrating that you occupy the property is typically required.
4. Schedule installation. A technician will need to visit your home to complete the setup. In some cases the wait can stretch to a month, though bundled packages that include television may see an installation appointment arranged within two weeks. Budget extra time if you are in a rural or newly built area.
5. Set up payment. A Mexican bank account is generally needed, since monthly charges are usually billed automatically. Some providers will also accept cash payments made at convenience stores or bank branches.
6. Consider an existing line. If the property you move into already has a landline, you may be able to transfer the account from the previous holder into your name, retaining the existing number and avoiding connection fees. A signed letter of authorisation from the previous account holder is typically required for this process.

A connection fee is not usually charged, though moving an account to a new address may involve a cost. Some providers carry out a credit check or request a security deposit, particularly for non-residents or first-time customers. Verify current requirements with your chosen provider or consult the IFT for regulatory guidance. If you encounter problems, formal complaints can be submitted to PROFECO (Procuraduría Federal del Consumidor), the federal consumer protection authority.

How do I get a mobile phone SIM card or contract in Mexico?

Obtaining mobile service in Mexico is refreshingly simple for newcomers. No passport or ID is required to purchase a basic prepaid SIM — as long as your handset is unlocked, you can insert the card, load some credit, and start making calls straight away. This stands in contrast to countries such as Germany or Spain, where identity verification is legally mandatory before a SIM can be activated.

For a prepaid (prepago) SIM, the process is simple:

1. Ensure your phone is unlocked. Your handset must be free of any carrier lock before a Mexican SIM will function. If it is still tied to your home-country provider, contact them to request an unlock before you travel or relocate.
2. Buy a SIM card. OXXO convenience stores — with over 22,000 outlets spread across cities and small towns alike — are among the most accessible places to pick up a SIM. They stock cards from Telcel, OXXO Cel (a Telcel subsidiary), AT&T, and Movistar. Major supermarket chains including Walmart, Soriana, and Chedraui also carry SIM cards and offer top-up services.
3. Top up your credit. Credit can be loaded (recargar) at the same shops where you bought the SIM, through the provider’s app or website, or via a Mexican bank’s online platform. Most prepaid plans run for 30 days and can be set to renew automatically if you link a payment card, or renewed manually through any of the above channels.
4. Register your number if required. Although no ID is demanded at point of sale for a standard prepaid SIM, some providers may ask you to complete online registration after purchase. Review the instructions that come with your SIM packaging for details.

For a postpaid contract (pospago), the requirements are considerably more involved. Contracts usually run for a year, and a handset may be included as part of the deal. To sign up, visit a mobile operator’s store — commonly located in shopping centres and commercial districts in larger cities. You will typically need to present a valid photo ID (passport or Mexican resident card), proof of address, and sometimes a Mexican bank account or evidence of credit history. Arrivals who do not yet have permanent residency documentation often find it easier to begin with a prepaid plan and upgrade once they have the necessary credentials in place.

eSIM support is available from AT&T México, Telcel, and Movistar on compatible devices, enabling postpaid plans to be activated digitally. eSIMs are generally not offered on prepaid plans by local carriers. Confirm availability with customer service before signing up.

When comparing plans, Telcel’s Amigo Sin Límite range is worth examining: as of 2024, options span from a one-day plan (50 MB of data for $10 MXN) to a 30-day plan (6 GB of data for $500 MXN). Check provider websites regularly for updated pricing, as plans evolve frequently.

How do I pay my telephone bill in Mexico?

Telephone bills in Mexico can be settled through a variety of channels — online portals, bank transfers, or in-person payment centres. Many providers also support automatic billing arrangements for customers who prefer a hands-off approach. Bills are issued on a monthly cycle.

Depending on your provider and plan, payment can be made by direct debit, online, at ATMs, at convenience stores, or at bank branches. The most widely used payment methods are:

• Direct debit (domiciliación): Link your Mexican bank account or credit card to your service account and bills are deducted automatically each month. This is the most dependable approach and is highly recommended once you hold a local bank account.
• Online or in-app payment: All major providers — including Telmex, Telcel, and Izzi — maintain apps and web portals that accept debit and credit card payments.
• OXXO and convenience stores: Cash payments using your account number or phone number are accepted at OXXO and similar nationwide chains. This method is especially useful for prepaid top-ups.
• Bank branches and ATMs: Most Mexican banks allow telecoms bills to be settled at a teller window or ATM by entering the service reference number printed on the bill.
• In-store at provider branches: You can pay face-to-face at any Telmex, Telcel, AT&T, or Movistar store.

For fixed-line customers, a monthly statement is sent to the registered address and sets out the billing period, usage charges, and any applicable fees or discounts. Customers then choose their preferred payment channel and settle within the deadline stated on the bill.

Late payments can lead to service suspension or penalty charges relatively quickly — Mexican providers do not always apply the extended grace periods common in some other countries. Setting up automatic direct debit is the easiest safeguard against this. Prepaid mobile customers face no such risk: when credit is exhausted, service simply stops until more credit is added, with no outstanding debt or penalty.

Are there any practical tips for using phones in Mexico as a newcomer?

Mexico’s telecoms environment has a number of distinctive characteristics that are worth understanding before you settle in. The following are things experienced expats often wish someone had told them from the outset.

WhatsApp is the de facto communication standard. WhatsApp functions as the primary channel for everyday communication in Mexico — used by businesses, landlords, government contacts, schools, and social connections. Getting it configured on a Mexican number as early as possible will make your daily interactions far smoother.

Network quality drops sharply outside cities. Telcel is by far the most reliable operator for anyone venturing into smaller towns, coastal villages, or remote countryside — whether in Baja California, the Pacific coast, or the interior highlands. AT&T México and Movistar are competitive in major urban centres like Mexico City, Guadalajara, and Mérida, but their signals can be weak or absent once you leave those hubs. If you are settling in a rural or coastal community, Telcel is the consistently recommended choice.

eSIM options are expanding. Telcel introduced eSIM functionality in 2022 for postpaid customers on compatible Apple and Samsung devices, with online activation available. Movistar followed in early 2023, supporting eSIM activation for new lines and migrations on recent iPhone and Pixel models. If you want data connectivity before you have a local postpaid contract, third-party eSIM services like Airalo and Holafly offer data-only plans purchasable in advance.

Porting a number takes a few days. Switching an existing Mexican mobile number to a new carrier is possible by approaching the receiving operator with your ID and account details. Unlike some countries where porting is completed in a single business day, the Mexican process typically takes between 24 and 72 hours. Foreign numbers cannot be ported into a Mexican network — you will need to acquire a new local number.

Toll-free numbers work only within Mexico. Numbers beginning with 800 are generally inaccessible from outside the country. If you are still abroad and need to contact a Mexican provider, look for an international contact number on their website. This is particularly relevant if you are trying to arrange services before your arrival.

North American roaming is often included. Many Mexican mobile plans — especially with Telcel and AT&T México — cover calls and data usage across Mexico, the United States, and Canada without additional charges. Verify this on your specific plan before travelling, as roaming to Europe, Asia, or South America will usually incur extra costs.

Skip the airport kiosks for better value. SIM cards are sold at airports in cities like Mexico City and Cancún, which is convenient if you need connectivity immediately on arrival. However, airport prices can be double or more compared with retail outlets in the city. Head to an OXXO store or a supermarket as soon as you can for a more cost-effective purchase.

A landline may support your banking arrangements. Some financial institutions and businesses in Mexico require a fixed-line telephone number for verification or account setup purposes. Having a landline may also help you qualify for better rates on bundled services. This is worth bearing in mind if you are planning to open a local bank account or establish credit shortly after arriving.

For regulatory queries, rights information, or to review your entitlements as a telecoms consumer, contact the Instituto Federal de Telecomunicaciones (IFT). Unresolved complaints about providers can be escalated to PROFECO.

Frequently asked questions

Can I keep my foreign number when I move to Mexico?

Porting a non-Mexican telephone number into a Mexican network is not possible. You will need to get a new local number when you arrive. A popular workaround is to keep your home-country SIM active in a second SIM slot or on an eSIM, which allows you to remain reachable on your existing number while using a Mexican number for day-to-day life in Mexico.

Do I need a local address to get a SIM card in Mexico?

For a basic prepaid SIM, no local address or identity document is required — simply purchase the card, ensure your phone is unlocked, load some credit, and you are ready. A local address is generally only necessary when signing up for a postpaid contract with one of the major operators.

Can tourists and people on a temporary visa get a postpaid mobile contract in Mexico?

Postpaid contracts typically require a Mexican national ID (INE) or a valid residency document, plus a local address and often a Mexican bank account or proof of credit history. Visitors and new arrivals on temporary visas may find it easier to use prepaid plans initially and switch to postpaid once they have obtained residency and a local bank account. Requirements vary by provider, so it is worth checking directly with the operator.

What is the best mobile network for rural or coastal areas in Mexico?

Telcel offers the most extensive coverage across Mexico, making it the strongest choice for residents in areas outside the major cities. Whether you are on the Pacific coast, in the Yucatán peninsula, or in a highland town, Telcel consistently outperforms its rivals in terms of signal reliability and reach.

Are eSIMs available in Mexico?

Major operators like AT&T México, Telcel, and Movistar offer eSIM support on select devices, allowing digital activation of postpaid plans. However, eSIMs are generally not available on prepaid plans from local carriers. Third-party eSIM providers such as Airalo or Holafly offer an alternative for new arrivals who want data connectivity immediately without a physical SIM.

How long does it take to get a landline installed in Mexico?

Waiting times for landline installation can reach up to a month in some cases, though customers taking a bundled package that includes television may be given an appointment within two weeks. Delays tend to be longer in rural areas or in newly developed neighbourhoods. If you anticipate needing a fixed line quickly — for example, to satisfy a bank’s verification requirements — it is advisable to begin the process as soon as possible after arriving.

How do I top up a prepaid mobile in Mexico?

Prepaid credit — known locally as recarga — can be added at OXXO, Walmart, Soriana, or Chedraui outlets, as well as at the operator’s own stores. Online top-ups through the provider’s app or website are equally straightforward, as are payments via a Mexican bank’s digital platform. Most prepaid plans are valid for 30 days. At a physical store, simply quote your mobile number at the counter when paying in cash.

Who do I contact if I have a complaint about my telephone provider in Mexico?

Your first step should be to raise the matter with your provider’s customer service team directly. If that does not resolve things, you can submit a formal complaint to PROFECO (Procuraduría Federal del Consumidor), the federal body responsible for consumer protection including telecoms disputes. The Instituto Federal de Telecomunicaciones (IFT) also accepts regulatory complaints and publishes detailed information about consumer rights on its website.

Is it true that all landline calls within Mexico are treated as local calls?

Yes — Mexican law classifies all calls originating from a fixed line to any other landline or mobile number within the country as local calls. No domestic long-distance charges apply to landline users, which makes a fixed telephone line a cost-effective solution for households that frequently contact people in other parts of Mexico.