in

What is Country Code 59? The South American Calling Prefix Explained

The query “Country Code 59” refers not to a single country, but to a block of three-digit International Country Calling Codes used primarily by nations in South and Central America.

The simple two-digit prefix +59 does not belong to any one country alone; instead, it serves as the foundational code for a series of separate country codes ranging from +590 through +599. Therefore, if you have a number starting with +59, you must know the full three-digit code to determine the exact location.

This expert guide details the nations within the +59x code block, provides the correct dialing format, and offers tips for safely receiving calls from this international zone.

Country Code 59
Country Code 59

The Complete List of +59x Country Codes

The +59x block is an important segment of the global numbering plan, primarily covering territories in South America and the Caribbean.

Country Code Country or Territory Time Zone (UTC Offset)
+590 Guadeloupe (French Caribbean) UTC-4
+591 Bolivia UTC-4
+592 Guyana UTC-4
+593 Ecuador UTC-5 & UTC-6 (Galapagos)
+594 French Guiana UTC-3
+595 Paraguay UTC-4
+596 Martinique (French Caribbean) UTC-4
+597 Suriname UTC-3
+598 Uruguay UTC-3
+599 Curaçao, Sint Maarten (Former Netherlands Antilles) UTC-4

Key Takeaway: If you receive a call starting with +59, the fourth digit is critical to identifying the country. For example, a call from Uruguay will begin with +598.

How to Dial a +59x Phone Number Internationally

To successfully dial a number in any of the countries listed above, you must follow the standard international dialing sequence.

Example: Calling Bolivia (+591)

Step Action Example
1. Dial Exit Code Your country’s international access code (e.g., 011 for US/Canada, 00 for most of Europe). Use + on a mobile. 011
2. Dial Country Code The full three-digit code for the country. 591
3. Dial Local/Area Code The required area or mobile code within the country (varies). 7
4. Dial Subscriber Number The remaining local number. XXX XXXX
Full Dialing Sequence (Mobile): +591 7 XXX XXXX

Note on Mobile Dialing: In many +59x countries, the total number length (excluding the +59x code) is standardized, often between 7 and 9 digits. Be sure to obtain the full national number from your contact before dialing.

Safety Warning: Calls from the +59x Block

As with all international communications, be cautious when receiving unsolicited calls from any of the +59x country codes.

The Risk of International Fraud

Scammers frequently use international phone numbers, including those in the South American and Caribbean region, as part of fraud schemes. Common tactics include:

  • Phishing/Vishing Scams: Impersonating banks or government agencies and attempting to solicit personal or financial information.
  • Wangiri (One-Ring) Scams: Ringing once and hanging up, hoping you call back and incur high premium international charges.

Actionable Safety Steps

  1. Do Not Answer: Unless you are expecting a call from that specific country, do not answer unknown international calls.
  2. Never Call Back: Do not return a missed call from an unfamiliar +59x Always search the full number online first to see if it has been reported as spam.
  3. Use Security Features: Enable spam filtering services provided by your mobile carrier or phone operating system to block known fraudulent international calls.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What is the time difference for the +59x block?

The time zones within the +59x block are relatively consistent, ranging from UTC-3 to UTC-5.

  • Most countries are in UTC-4 (e.g., Bolivia, Guyana).
  • This means they are typically 1 hour ahead of US Pacific Time (PST) and 1 hour behind US Eastern Time (EST), though this shifts during Daylight Saving Time. Always double-check the specific country’s current time.

Is any number in the +59x block part of the US area code system?

No. The numbers in the +59x block are all distinct international Country Codes. They are not part of the North American Numbering Plan (NANP), so calls to these countries are subject to international dialing rules and rates.

How do I text a mobile number in the +59x region?

To send a text message (SMS) to one of these countries, the format is generally the same as dialing: +59x followed by the full National (Significant) Number. Ensure your mobile plan includes international texting, as charges can be high.

 

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

The Country Code 34

Country Code 34: The Definitive Guide to Calling Spain