How to Call Argentina
Complete guide to dialing Argentina (country code +54)
Planning an international call and wondering how to call Argentina? You've come to the right place. Calling Argentina from abroad might seem complicated at first, but with the right instructions, it's surprisingly straightforward. Whether you're connecting with family, coordinating business meetings, or booking reservations, understanding the proper dialing procedure is essential. This comprehensive guide walks you through everything you need to know about calling Argentina, including step-by-step dialing instructions, country and area codes, and the best times to call. We'll also highlight common mistakes people make when placing international calls, share important phone etiquette tips for communicating with Argentinians, and provide a helpful list of essential numbers you might need during your visit or while staying in touch with contacts in Argentina.
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Quick Reference
Dialing Instructions
International Dialing Format Structure
To call Argentina from abroad, follow this format: Exit Code + 54 + Area Code (without 0) + Local Number
Argentina's country code is +54. The exit code varies by country, and you must drop the leading "0" from Argentine area codes when dialing internationally.
Step-by-Step Dialing Instructions
From the USA or Canada:
- Dial 011 (exit code)
- Dial 54 (Argentina country code)
- Dial the area code without the leading 0
- Dial the local number
From the UK:
- Dial 00 (exit code)
- Dial 54 (Argentina country code)
- Dial the area code without the leading 0
- Dial the local number
From other countries:
Replace the exit code with your country's international access code (commonly 00), then follow the same pattern.
Specific Examples
Example 1 - Buenos Aires Landline:
- Local format: 011-4123-5678
- From USA: 011-54-11-4123-5678
- From UK: 00-54-11-4123-5678
- Note: Drop the "0" from "011" area code
Example 2 - Córdoba Landline:
- Local format: 0351-456-7890
- From USA: 011-54-351-456-7890
- From UK: 00-54-351-456-7890
Example 3 - Argentine Mobile Number:
- Local format: 011-15-6789-1234
- From USA: 011-54-9-11-6789-1234
- From UK: 00-54-9-11-6789-1234
- Note: Add "9" after country code for mobile numbers, and remove "15"
Important Tips
Mobile numbers require adding "9" after the country code (54). Argentine cell phones display "15" locally, but this converts to "9" for international dialing. Always remove the leading "0" from area codes. Common area codes include 11 (Buenos Aires), 351 (Córdoba), and 341 (Rosario).
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Common Mistakes
When calling Argentina, these common mistakes can prevent your call from connecting:
Forgetting to drop the leading zero – Argentine phone numbers often display with a leading "0" before the area code (like 011 for Buenos Aires), but you must remove it when dialing internationally. Dial +54 11, not +54 011.
Using incorrect exit codes – Many people still use outdated exit codes like "00" instead of the universal "+". Always use "+" or your country's specific exit code (011 from the US/Canada) followed by 54.
Confusing the country code with the area code – Argentina's country code is 54, not to be confused with Buenos Aires' area code (11). The correct format is +54 11 XXXX-XXXX, not +11 or +54 54.
Including unnecessary spaces or hyphens – While formatting helps readability, inconsistent spacing can cause dialing errors. Follow the standard format: +54 [area code] [local number].
Not accounting for mobile numbers – Argentine mobile numbers require "9" after the area code when calling internationally: +54 9 11 XXXX-XXXX for Buenos Aires mobiles. Omitting this digit will result in failed connections.
Cultural Etiquette
When making phone calls in Argentina, understanding local customs will help you communicate more effectively and build better relationships.
Greetings matter greatly. Start calls with "Buen dÃa" (good morning), "Buenas tardes" (good afternoon), or "Buenas noches" (good evening), followed by identifying yourself. On personal calls, expect warm, extended greetings asking about family and well-being before discussing the main topic.
Business calls require formality initially. Use "usted" (formal "you") and professional titles like "Doctor" or "Licenciado" until invited to be more casual. However, Argentinians generally shift to friendly, conversational tones quickly, even in professional settings. Don't be surprised if business calls feel more personal than expected.
Timing is important. Avoid calling during siesta hours (roughly 1-4 PM) or late evenings after 10 PM. For business calls, aim for mid-morning or late afternoon. Personal calls are more flexible but respect meal times.
Voice messages are common and expected. Leave detailed messages rather than hanging up silently. Argentinians appreciate knowing who called and why.
Expect interruptions and overlapping conversations. Argentinians are expressive communicators who may interject enthusiastically. This isn't considered rude but shows engagement.
Be patient with longer conversations. Rushing through calls or being overly brief can seem cold. Argentinians value personal connection, so allow time for rapport-building, even during business discussions.
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Emergency Numbers
Police: 911 or 101
Ambulance: 911 or 107
Fire Department: 911 or 100
Tourist Police (in Buenos Aires): 0800-999-5000 or +54 11 4346-5748
Argentina has implemented 911 as a unified emergency number in most provinces, including Buenos Aires. However, the traditional three-digit numbers (101, 107, 100) still function nationwide. All emergency numbers are free to call from landlines and mobile phones, operating 24/7.
English-speaking operators may not always be available, so having basic Spanish phrases prepared is advisable. The Tourist Police in Buenos Aires specifically assists foreign visitors with crimes, lost documents, and language barriers, with multilingual staff available. In remote areas, response times may vary significantly. Save these numbers in your phone before traveling, and always provide your precise location when calling.
Useful Numbers
Directory Assistance & Information Services
- 110: National directory assistance for finding phone numbers and addresses throughout Argentina
International Services
- 000: International operator for assistance with overseas calls and collect calls
Tourist Services
- 0800-999-5000: National tourist information hotline providing travel guidance, recommendations, and assistance in multiple languages
Embassy Contacts
- Contact your embassy directly for consular services, passport issues, and citizen assistance. Most embassies are located in Buenos Aires and maintain 24-hour emergency lines.
Additional Helpful Numbers
- 144: Gender violence helpline (24/7)
- 135: Consumer protection and complaints
- 0800-222-1002: PAMI (healthcare assistance for seniors)
- 147: City of Buenos Aires information and complaint line
- *110: Mobile phone customer service (varies by carrier)
Keep these numbers accessible throughout your stay for convenient access to essential services.
Tips for Calling Argentina
When calling Argentina, keep in mind the country operates on Argentine Time (ART), which is UTC-3 year-round with no daylight saving adjustments. To reach contacts during their business day, calculate the time difference from your location accordingly.
For business calls, aim for Argentina's standard working hours: 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM, Monday through Friday. Schedule important calls in advance, as Argentines appreciate punctuality and professional courtesy. Avoid calling during the traditional lunch break between 1:00 PM and 3:00 PM when many businesses close.
Consider off-peak calling rates if using landlines—typically evenings and weekends offer lower costs. However, verify with your provider as international rate structures vary.
Be mindful of Argentine holidays including New Year's Day, Carnival, Good Friday, Memorial Day (March 24), Veterans Day (April 2), Labor Day (May 1), Independence Day (July 9), and Christmas. Avoid scheduling calls during January and February when many businesses operate with reduced staff due to summer vacations.
For clear communication, speak slowly and confirm important details. If language barriers exist, consider using a translation service or confirming key points via email afterward.
Frequently Asked Questions
The country code for Argentina is +54. When calling Argentina from abroad, dial your international access code (like 011 from the US), followed by 54, then the area code without the leading zero, and finally the local phone number.
When calling Argentina from your cell phone, press and hold the 0 key to insert the + symbol, then dial 54 (Argentina's country code), the area code without the zero, and the subscriber number. For example: +54 11 1234-5678 for Buenos Aires.
Yes, you must drop the leading zero from Argentina's area code when calling Argentina internationally. For instance, Buenos Aires area code is 011 domestically, but you dial +54 11 from abroad, removing the initial zero from the area code.
Emergency numbers when calling Argentina: dial 911 for general emergencies, 100 for fire department, 107 for ambulance (SAME), and 101 for police. These numbers are toll-free and accessible from any phone, including cell phones without credit.
Argentina operates on Argentina Time (ART), which is UTC-3 year-round with no daylight saving time. When planning your call to Argentina, check the time difference from your location to avoid calling during inconvenient hours like late night or early morning.
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