Mexico has a great telecommunication network, reaching even most of its rural areas.
Cell phones in Mexico
How to Get a SIM card
Mexico’s popular networks are Telcel, AT&T, and Movistar. However, smaller companies are in the market giving an
extensive and competitive price.
Some companies include in their plans unlimited calls and messages to Mexico, Canada, and the US. Make
sure your current smartphone is unblocked to the specific network, or you can buy new smartphones with or
without a plan in Mexico.
There are 2 payment modalities:
a-) Pay-as-you-go: You choose a provider’s SIM cards and buy the chip that may cost around 60 MXN (2.50 USD),
and you will have many options that include calls, messages, and internet connection for about 200 MXN (9 USD).
b-) Plans: If you would like a postpaid plan, you can register directly at the provider’s site. Prices for plans may
vary depending on their characteristics. The plan you choose may include a smartphone. Some plans also include
data for social networks.
The documents required for a plan are the following:
- Passport or ID card, and also immigration card
- Proof of address: lease agreement, any utility bill issued within the past 3 months.
Television in Mexico
There are two major TV companies: Televisa and TV Azteca. The main content you will see on Mexican television
includes reality shows, news, sports, and international TV. Mexico also has some government-owned channels that
show cultural content.
International TV network in Mexico
Watching TV channels from your country of origin can be a way to stay connected to home. It can also help ease the
ultural shock and help you adapt to the new Mexican lifestyle by watching TV shows you love such as sports, politics,
and breaking news. In Mexico, you can have access to different options to see international television: Cable, satellite,
and internet-streaming TV.
Local cable companies offer internet services and also land-line telephone. Plan costs may vary between 600 MXN (25 USD)
and 1600 MXN (70 USD).
Satellite TV normally offers a wider range of international channels. Plan costs can vary from 200 MXN (9 USD) and up
to 1000 MXN (45 USD).
Internet service in Mexico
High Speed Internet
Telmex, Mexico’s main telephone company, offers internet service under a trade name “Infinitum”. It offers three types of
package services that include local, national, and international calls from the landline in addition to the high-speed internet.
Internet Service via Cable
Cable companies offer high-speed internet services and TV channels. If you are located in an area where cable service is
available without internet service, you may want to consider it as an alternative also.
Internet on Your Smartphone or Mobile Devices in Mexico
You can have access to a high-speed internet service that is accessed directly over smart phones and other devices.
Check with the local provider about international data roaming access and charges.