Subscribe for all my updates and don't miss a thing! Sign me up!
New Jamaica Area Code (s)
Here's What You Need To Know
Sharing Is Caring! Share this awesome content with your friends now.
New! See the real Jamaica in VIDEOS!
Click Here and see why over 140,000 fans are raving about my YouTube Channel!
Jamaica Area Code(s)
by Deon Clarke
You've heard the chatter, but what's with the current and new Jamaica area codes? I'll share with you the full (and vital) information you require to ensure you are not adversely impacted.
Here's now is the essence of it...
New! How much do you love Jamaica?
Join our growing list of well-thinking Jamaica-loving folks who are demonstrating what a friendly, helpful and fun Jamaican community looks like. Click Here to learn more.
And, if you ever need a trustworthy and knowledgeable local guide, consider booking a private tour with us!
The Current State
Jamaica currently has two area (country) codes:
- 876, which is the primary area code
- And 658, which became effective May 31, 2018.
The introduction of this new area code was critical as the 876 code was nearing exhaustion.
As a result, the Office of Utilities Regulation (OUR) took the necessary steps to ensure that we have enough numbers are available for at least another 25 years to satisfy the growing demand.
The two main mobile and landline service providers, FLOW and DIGICEL utilize these two area codes.
See Also: Telephone Directory For Jamaica
The Prior State
Prior to October 29, 2018, to make local calls in Jamaica you could use the regular 7-digit phone number.
However, it is now mandatory that you place the country area code before this 7-digit number in order for the call to connect.
If you fail to do this, you will get a message from the network service provider that 10 digit dialing is now in effect and that you should hang up and redial using the area code PLUS the seven digit number.
Important points to Note About The New Jamaica Area Code
The 658 area code (like 876) are not toll-free numbers and you will most certainly be billed at international long distance calling rates if you use any other area code.
- The 658 area code is not a replacement to the 876 code, but rather, an addition.
- 10-digit dialing does not affect your telephone charges or current telephone number in any way.
- The 658 area code will be used once the 876 code has been depleted.
- You can make calls between each of these area codes without additional charge.
How to make a LOCAL phone call IN Jamaica, using 10-digit dialing
So you just bought a new phone and not quite sure how to make a call, or you’re just not sure about all these changes, simply dial the three Jamaica area code (eg. 876) plus the 7 digit phone number you are calling.
For example: 876-xxx-xxxx or 658-xxx-xxxx.
Always make sure you verify the correct area code with the person you are calling.
It is quite possible you might just get the wrong person on the other end as they might have the same 7 digit phone number. You certainly don’t want to do that!
As you can see, using the right area code would make a huge difference!
Calling Toll-Free Numbers in Jamaica
The toll-free area code in Jamaica is 888. Prior to this new 10-digit dialing, you would have called dialed a toll-free number in Jamaica with a 1 before the number such as 1-888-xxx-xxxx.
Now you have one less number to dial. The 1 is no loner required. You just simply dial 888-xxx-xxxx. If you happen to forget and dial the 1, you will just get a recording asking you to redial without the 1.
Calling Jamaica From OUTSIDE Jamaica
Whether a potential visitor, in the diaspora, family or for business, at some point, you'll need to call back into Jamaica while outside, simply dial:
- The number 1,
- Plus the three digit area code (876 or 658)
- Plus the 7-digit code and you’re connecting to.
For example 1-876-123-4567 OR 1-658-123-4567
Its that simple.
This format can always be used as long as the country is a part of the North American Numbering Plan (NANP).
For more details on countries and states using this plan, please visit this wikipedia.org article.
The Future
Phone and phone calls are not just a convenience today, its a necessity! Who’s to tell, maybe in another 25 years we’ll have another one or two additional area codes in Jamaica.
Until then…. stay connected. I hope to hear from you via one of these local areas in Jamaica soon :-)
Regards,
DC
You might like these as well
What Is The Duty Free Threshold In Jamaica?
What is the duty free threshold in Jamaica? If you are interested in getting items into the island, this is something you may want to know.
Peak Season In Jamaica? Is Now A Good Time To Visit Jamaica?
The popular destinations are often crowded. And yes, it’s the same in Jamaica. Is it worth visiting during the peak season in Jamaica?
References:
- 876 and 658: All You Need To Know About Jamaica’s New Area Code, http://digjamaica.com/m/blog/876-and-658-all-you-need-to-know-about-jamaicas-new-area-code/
- Jamaica gets additional area code — 658, http://www.jamaicaobserver.com/latestnews/Jamaica_gets_additional_area_code_658
- Jamaica Gets Additional Area Code, https://jis.gov.jm/jamaica-gets-additional-area-code/
- Area codes 876 and 658, https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Area_codes_876_and_658
Other Pages Related To Jamaica Area Code(s)
Make sure you subscribe to my free weekly e-zine My Island Jamaica Digest (MIJD) and stay with the latest!
Return to Telephone Directory For Jamaica from Jamaica Area Code
Return to My Island Jamaica from Jamaica Area Code
New! Get My Latest Book👇🏿
 |
You asked, I've answered! You no longer need to save for months or years, to enjoy paradise! I spilled the beans! sharing my top tips on finding cozy accommodations and secret gems, only the way a native could! Click Here to pick it up on my e-store and start saving now! |
See The Best Of Jamaica - In Videos!
 |
My channel reaches over 140,000 subscribers worldwide and has leveraged over 11 million views, sharing, what I call 'The Real Jamaica'. Subscribe today and join our family of viewers. |
Read More ...
New! Experience The REAL Jamaica!
Book Your Private Tour here and experience Jamaica the way we (locals) do!
P.S. Didn't find what you were looking for?
Still need help?
Click Here to try our dependable and effective Site Search tool. It works!
Or, simply click here and here, to browse my library of over 500 questions and answers! Chances are someone already asked (and got an answer to) your question.
NEW!
Join the growing list of well-thinking, Jamaica-Loving folks in our vibrant Private Community
👇🏿
Featured Video!
New Here?
I recommend you START HERE to enjoy the best of this website!
New! For Authentic Jamaican products, from my very own hands, visit my Etsy store here.
Recent Articles
-
River Tubing In Jamaica | Where Should I Go?
Apr 14, 24 05:34 PM
You can’t avoid water activities on a Jamaican vacation. We are an island after all! I see you are interested in river tubing in Jamaica. Here’s where to go. -
Champs 2024 | A Little History And The Highlights!
Apr 12, 24 05:18 PM
Champs 2024 was an absolutely remarkable display of talent from our young athletes! Here are the highlights. -
What Is The Duty Free Threshold In Jamaica?
Apr 11, 24 09:34 AM
What is the duty free threshold in Jamaica? If you are interested in getting items into the island, this is something you may want to know. -
Health Benefits Of The Jamaican Cassava
Apr 10, 24 09:01 PM
Cassava isn’t quite as popular as before, but it is still a favourite for some Jamaicans. Let’s look at the health benefits of the Jamaican Cassava. -
What Are The Best Outdoor Activities In Jamaica?
Apr 09, 24 11:51 AM
Jamaica is beautiful, I’m sure you’ve heard. But how much will you experience at the hotel? What are the best outdoor activities in Jamaica? Let’s find out!
About The Author
A patriotic Jamaican who adores its culture, Wellesley has been using this medium to share what he calls 'the uniqueness of Jamaica with the world' since April 2007.
To date, he serves over 9,300 unique readers / viewers per day (and over 1.1millon page views monthly)
His efforts have earned this site featured positions in local publications, including the Jamaica Gleaner's Hospitality Jamaica, Carlong Publishers, as well as recognition from numerous prestigious international agencies and universities. Read more about him here.
He invites you to subscribe to this site to stay updated on all the latest and check out his unique Jamaican products on his e-store.
If you are on social media, here are the links to follow his latest posts:
You are also invited to join his exclusive JAMHearts community where like-minded Jamaican enthusiasts discuss all things Jamaican.
Didn't Find What You Are Seeking?
Do a quick site search here:
New! Comments
Have your say about what you just read! Leave me a comment in the box below.