Argentina Telephone Numbering Plan and Dialing Guide
The telephone network in Argentina is managed by the National Communications Entity (ENACOM), the national regulator for communications and media. Argentina utilizes a semi-open numbering plan, meaning that while area codes and subscriber numbers vary in length, the total length of a national number is consistently ten digits.
Whether you are a business expanding into South America or a traveler planning a visit, understanding the nuances of Argentina's dialing system—from the specific mobile prefixes to the trunk codes—is essential for seamless communication.
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Key Facts
- Country Code: 54
- International Access Code: 00
- Domestic Trunk Code: 0
- Mobile Prefix: 15 (used for domestic calls)
- Total National Digits: 10
- Regulator: ENACOM
Local and Long-Distance Dialing
Local Landline Dialing
Local landline numbers vary in length based on the city's size. Most numbers begin with the digit 4, though other starting digits are increasingly common. The length is typically distributed as follows:
- Greater Buenos Aires: 8 digits
- Second-tier cities: 7 digits
- Smaller towns and cities: 6 digits
Domestic Long-Distance Calls
To place a long-distance call within Argentina, you must use the trunk code 0, followed by the area code (which can be 2, 3, or 4 digits) and the subscriber number. For example, calling Ushuaia from Salta would require dialing 0 + 2901 + the local number.
Note that while the trunk code 0 is not technically part of the area code, it is often written as part of the prefix. If a number is provided with a leading 0, you do not need to add another one.
Mobile Phone Numbering
Mobile phones in Argentina share the same geographic area codes as landlines. The primary distinction is the mobile prefix 15, which must be dialed before the subscriber number for domestic calls.
Dialing Mobile Numbers
- Local Mobile Call: Dial 15 + subscriber number.
- Long-Distance Mobile Call: Dial 0 + area code + 15 + subscriber number.
- Mobile to Mobile: Both the trunk code 0 and the mobile prefix 15 can be omitted when calling from one mobile phone to another within the country.
It is important to note that the prefix 15 is not part of the actual phone number. Including it when using IVR (Interactive Voice Response) menus or calling from abroad can lead to connection errors.
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International Calling and SMS
Inbound Calls to Argentina
For landlines, dial the international prefix, country code 54, the area code, and the local number. For mobile phones, the process differs: you must add the prefix 9 before the area code and omit the domestic prefix 15. The pattern is: +54 9 [area code] [subscriber number].
Inbound SMS
Sending a text message to an Argentine mobile requires a different format than a voice call. You must omit both the international mobile prefix 9 and the domestic prefix 15. The correct format is: +54 [area code] [subscriber number].
Outbound International Calls
To call outside Argentina, dial the trunk prefix 00, followed by the destination country code and the local number. For example, calling New Zealand would begin with 00 64.
Specialized Numbering Services
Non-Geographic Numbers
Argentina uses non-geographic numbers for specific services, typically following the format 0ppp-nnn-nnnn. Common prefixes include:
| Prefix | Service Type |
|---|---|
| 0800 | Toll-free numbers |
| 0810 | Local rate calls from any area |
| 0822 | Toll-free calling card access |
| 0600 | Premium-rate numbers |
| 0605 | Charity donation premium lines |
| 0609 | Fixed-rate gaming premium numbers |
| 0610 | Dial-up Internet access |
Public Utility and Emergency Numbers
Public utility numbers generally follow a 1xx format. While many cities use specific codes, some areas (like the Buenos Aires Metro Area) have merged emergency services into a single 911 number.
- 100: Firefighters
- 101: Police
- 107: Ambulance
- 103: Civil Defense
- 110: Phone Directory
Number Portability
Following deregulation in 2000, Argentina implemented number portability. This allows users to switch service providers while retaining their existing phone number, provided they remain within the same local subscriber area. This system is designed to increase competition, leading to better service quality and lower rates for consumers.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to use the prefix 15 when calling an Argentine mobile from abroad?
No. The prefix 15 is only used for domestic calls within Argentina. When calling from abroad, you should use the prefix 9 instead.
What is the difference between dialing a mobile for a voice call versus an SMS from abroad?
For a voice call, you use +54 9 [area code] [number]. For an SMS, you omit the 9 and use +54 [area code] [number].
How do I make a collect call within Argentina?
Domestic collect calls can be placed from a landline or payphone by dialing 19 and providing your name to the operator.
Can I call 0800 numbers from outside Argentina?
No, non-geographic numbers such as 0800 or 0810 cannot be reached from outside the country.
What is the trunk code and when is it used?
The trunk code is 0. It is used when placing domestic long-distance calls to indicate that the call is leaving the local area.