Mobile Operators & SIM Cards in Mexico

Mobile networks in Mexico

Mobile lines by operator, as reported to the regulator for March 2025.

Several virtual operators, including Wal-Mart Innovación, did not report data in time and are not counted in the total. Shares are computed from the reported lines.

Buying a SIM card in Mexico as a visitor

• Foreigners who take out a Mexican mobile line can identify themselves with their name, country of origin and passport number.
• To verify their identity, foreign nationals present a passport or a temporary CURP for foreigners.
• For a foreigner's line, the provider records only the name, country of origin, passport number (or temporary CURP), the phone number and the result of the identity check.
• After the start-up period, SIMs can only be sold disabled until linked, except SIMs that cannot make voice calls, send SMS or make internet calls.
• A line not associated with an identified user is suspended and can only call emergency and citizen-service numbers.
• An individual can link up to ten mobile lines.
• After the 2026 FIFA World Cup, the telecom regulator (CRT) is to define how lines using international roaming in Mexico will be linked.

In practice: bring your passport to the store, and make sure the SIM is linked to it before you leave, or the line will be limited to emergency calls.

Prepaid offer examples

Prices checked on September 28, 2026 on each operator's website. Offers change often, so confirm before you buy.

Using your US phone in Mexico

Whether your US plan covers Mexico, and at what cost, depends on the plan, so check your carrier's international page before you go. Our guide to using your US phone abroad covers roaming, Wi-Fi calling and bill surprises.

To call Mexico from the US, dial 011 + 52 + the number: see how to call Mexico and the Mexico phone number format.

FAQ

Do I need to register a Mexican SIM card?

Foreigners who take out a Mexican mobile line can identify themselves with their name, country of origin and passport number. A line not associated with an identified user is suspended and can only call emergency and citizen-service numbers.

Which is the biggest mobile operator in Mexico?

Telcel (Radiomóvil Dipsa, América Móvil) had 83,254,767 mobile lines in March 2025.

Do I need to register my US phone when roaming in Mexico?

The line-identification rules apply to Mexican lines. After the 2026 FIFA World Cup, the telecom regulator (CRT) is to define how lines using international roaming in Mexico will be linked. Check with your US carrier before you travel.

Can I buy a data-only travel eSIM for Mexico?

After the start-up period, SIMs can only be sold disabled until linked, except SIMs that cannot make voice calls, send SMS or make internet calls.