International Calling

How to Call Argentina from the USA

Last Updated: January 5, 2026
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Connecting with people in Argentina requires specific knowledge. The dialing rules change depending on the device you call. You might struggle with hidden codes or high costs. Many people fail to connect on the first try. You need the right sequence to reach friends or business partners.

Argentina uses a unique system for mobile phones. This often confuses international callers. We will simplify this process for you. This guide covers every step for successful calls. We also discuss how tools like the International Telecommunication Union set these standards. You will learn to save money while calling.


The Basics of International Dialing

You must understand the standard components of an international call. A specific string of numbers routes your call correctly. Missing one digit breaks the connection.

The sequence always starts with an exit code. This code lets you dial out of the USA. Next is the destination country code. Then you dial the city area code. Finally, you enter the local subscriber number.

The Standard Formula:

  • Exit Code: 011 (for USA and Canada)
  • Country Code: 54 (for Argentina)
  • Area Code: 2 to 4 digits (varies by city)
  • Local Number: 6 to 8 digits

This structure works for landlines. Mobile phones require an extra step. We will explain that difference shortly.

How to Call an Argentina Landline

Calling a fixed landline is the simplest method. Businesses and homes often use these lines. The connection is usually stable. You do not need special prefixes inside the country code.

Follow these steps for landlines:

  • Dial 011: This is the US exit code.
  • Dial 54: This routes the call to Argentina.
  • Dial the Area Code: Do not include a leading zero.
  • Dial the Local Number: Enter the remaining digits.

Example:

You are calling a business in Mendoza. The area code is 261. The number is 123-4567.

You dial: 011 54 261 123 4567.

Always check the area code first. Large cities have short codes. Small towns have longer codes.

How to Call an Argentina Mobile Phone

This section is critical. Most international calls fail here. Argentina places a specific restriction on incoming mobile calls. You cannot dial it like a landline.

You must add a specific digit to the sequence. You also need to modify the area code.

The Golden Rules for Mobiles:

  • Add a ‘9’: You must insert the number ‘9’ after the country code (54).
  • Drop the ’15’: Locals dial ’15’ before mobile numbers. You must remove this.
  • Drop the ‘0’: Do not use the zero before the area code.

The Mobile Sequence:

011 + 54 + 9 + Area Code + Local Number.

Example:

You call a friend’s mobile in Buenos Aires. The area code is 11. The local number is 1234-5678.

You dial: 011 54 9 11 1234 5678.

If you forget the ‘9’, the call will not connect. You might get an error message.

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Major Argentina City Area Codes

You need the correct geographical code for your call. Argentina is a vast country. Every region has a distinct prefix. Using the wrong one connects you to the wrong city.

Here is a list of codes for major cities.

CityArea CodeLandline ExampleMobile Example
Buenos Aires11011 54 11…011 54 9 11…
Córdoba351011 54 351…011 54 9 351…
Rosario341011 54 341…011 54 9 341…
Mendoza261011 54 261…011 54 9 261…
Mar del Plata223011 54 223…011 54 9 223…
La Plata221011 54 221…011 54 9 221…

Verify the city before you dial. Some provinces share similar codes. A quick Google search confirms the exact location.

Navigating Time Zones

Timing your call is as important as dialing correctly. Argentina is in the Argentina Standard Time (ART) zone. This is GMT-3.

Argentina does not observe Daylight Saving Time. The time difference with the USA changes during the year. You must calculate this to avoid waking someone up.

Time Differences (Standard Time):

  • Eastern Time (EST): Argentina is 2 hours ahead.
  • Central Time (CST): Argentina is 3 hours ahead.
  • Pacific Time (PST): Argentina is 5 hours ahead.

Best Times to Call:

  • From New York: Call between 9 AM and 3 PM. This is 11 AM to 5 PM in Argentina.
  • From California: Call early in your morning. 9 AM PST is already 2 PM in Argentina.

Business hours in Argentina are typically 9 AM to 6 PM. However, many people take late lunches. Try to avoid calling between 1 PM and 3 PM.

Understanding Call Costs

International calls are notoriously expensive. Traditional carriers charge high rates per minute. You might pay over $1.00 per minute for a simple call.

Mobile calls to Argentina often incur surcharges. Carriers classify them differently than landlines. A 30-minute business call could cost you $30 or more.

Factors Influencing Cost:

  • Carrier Rates: Verizon, AT&T, and T-Mobile have different international plans.
  • Connection Fees: Some providers charge just to connect the call.
  • Roaming: Using your mobile while traveling is even pricier.

You need a better solution for frequent calls. Paying standard rates is not sustainable for business. It drains your budget quickly.

The VoIP Solution: Telfon

Modern technology solves the cost problem. Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) uses the internet to transmit calls. This bypasses expensive phone lines.

Telfon acts as a bridge. It connects your US device to the Argentine network cheaply. You get clear audio without the heavy price tag.

Why choose VoIP?

  • Cost Efficiency: Rates are significantly lower than traditional carriers.
  • Clarity: HD voice quality over Wi-Fi or data.
  • Flexibility: Call from your phone, laptop, or tablet.

You do not need new hardware. You simply download an app. This modernizes how you communicate globally.


Telfon: Your Business Phone System

Telfon is more than just a calling app. It is a complete cloud telephony solution. It serves individuals and large companies alike. Over 600 companies currently trust this platform.

Key Features for Global Reach:

  • Virtual Numbers: Buy a local Argentine number. Clients can call you at local rates.
  • Global Coverage: Reach over 180 countries instantly.
  • Cost Savings: Users save up to 50% compared to other providers.

This system scales with you. You can start with one user. Eventually, you can add your entire sales team.

Advanced Features for Businesses

Business communication requires more than voice calls. You need tools to track and manage interactions. Telfon provides enterprise-level features.

Essential Business Tools:

  • Analytics: View graphs and charts of call history.
  • CRM Integration: Sync data seamlessly.

These tools help sales and HR teams. International hiring becomes easier. You can interview candidates in Argentina effortlessly. You can also monitor team performance remotely.

How to Use Telfon for Argentina Calls

Getting started is straightforward. You do not need technical skills. The interface is user-friendly.

Step-by-Step Guide:

  • Download the App: Available on Google Play, App Store, or Chrome Web Store.
  • Add Credits: Choose a “Pay-as-you-go” plan.
  • Dial the Number: Use the dial pad. Remember the +54 and the ‘9’ for mobiles.

Getting a Virtual Number:

You can also purchase an Argentine number. Select “Argentina” from the list. Choose your preferred area code. Now, you have a local presence.


Why You Need a Virtual Number

A virtual number changes how locals perceive you. It builds trust instantly. People prefer answering local calls over international ones.

Benefits:

  • Local Presence: Appear as a local business in Buenos Aires.
  • Inbound Calls: Friends and family call you for cheap.
  • Privacy: Keep your personal US number private.

This is ideal for real estate agents. You can manage Argentine properties from the USA. Tenants call a local number, and your phone rings in America.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

Sometimes calls simply do not connect. This is frustrating. Usually, the issue is a minor dialing error.

Check these common mistakes:

  • Forgot the ‘9’: Did you call a mobile? Ensure the ‘9’ is there.
  • Kept the ’15’: Did you dial the local prefix? Remove the ’15’.
  • Wrong Area Code: Double-check the city code.
  • Connection Issues: Check your Wi-Fi strength if using VoIP.

If the number is busy, try later. Networks can get congested. Also, ensure the recipient has a signal.

Business Etiquette in Argentina

Cultural norms affect communication success. Argentines value personal relationships. A cold, direct call might not work well.

Tips for Business Calls:

  • Small Talk: Start with a friendly greeting. Ask about their day.
  • WhatsApp: This app is king in Argentina. Ask if you can message them there.
  • Patience: Meetings often start late. Be flexible with time.

Using Telfon’s WhatsApp integration helps here. You can switch from a call to a text easily. This aligns with local habits.

Turn Your International Call into a Local Argentine Connection.



Key Takeaways

Calling Argentina requires attention to detail. The dialing sequence is unique. Mobile numbers need the extra ‘9’.

Summary Checklist:

  • Use 011 to exit the USA.
  • Use 54 for Argentina.
  • Add 9 for mobile phones.
  • Drop the 0 from area codes.
  • Check the time zone difference.

Using a service like Telfon simplifies this. You save money and gain features. You ensure better call quality.


Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What is the country code for Argentina?

The country code is 54. You must dial this after your country’s exit code (011 in the USA) to connect to Argentina.

2. Why does my call to an Argentina mobile fail?

You likely forgot the mobile prefix. You must insert a ‘9’ between the country code (54) and the area code. Also, remove the ’15’ if you see it in the number.

3. Can I use WhatsApp to call Argentina?

Yes, WhatsApp is very popular. However, it requires both parties to have the internet. For professional calls to landlines or non-users, a VoIP service like Telfon is more reliable.

4. How much does it cost to call Argentina?

Traditional carriers can charge over $1.50 per minute. VoIP apps like Telfon offer rates for just pennies per minute. This can save you up to 50% on phone bills.

5. How do I get an Argentina phone number in the USA?

You can purchase a virtual Argentina number through the Telfon app. This allows people in Argentina to call you at local rates.

6. Is there a time difference between New York and Argentina?

Yes. Argentina is typically 1 to 2 hours ahead of US Eastern Standard Time. This gap widens during US Daylight Saving Time because Argentina does not change its clocks.

7. Can I send SMS to Argentina from the USA?

Yes. Most carriers allow this, but it costs extra. Telfon allows you to send and receive SMS and bulk messages at lower rates.

8. Do I dial ‘0’ before the area code?

No. When calling from outside Argentina, you must drop the leading ‘0’ from the city area code. Only dial the remaining digits.

9. What is the best app for business calls to Argentina?

Telfon is a top choice. It offers call recording, analytics, and CRM integration. It is designed for sales teams and HR professionals needing reliable global connections.

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