The 354 area code, introduced in October 2022, marks a significant expansion in the telecommunications landscape of Montreal and its surrounding regions in Quebec, Canada. It serves as an overlay to the existing 450 and 579 area codes, which were nearing exhaustion due to the region’s growing population and increased demand for phone numbers.
354 area code
Necessity for Expansion
Montreal’s vibrant economy, coupled with the proliferation of mobile devices and other communication technologies, has led to a surge in demand for new phone numbers. The existing 450 and 579 area codes were no longer able to accommodate this growth, prompting the implementation of the 354 area code as an overlay.
Overlay Area Code: A Seamless Solution
An overlay area code is a new code that is superimposed over an existing area code, serving the same geographic region. In the case of the 354 area code, it shares the same territory as the 450 and 579 area codes, encompassing the off-island suburbs of Montreal and the Montérégie region. This means that residents and businesses within the area can have phone numbers with any of the three area codes.
The introduction of the 354 area code required a transition to mandatory 10-digit dialing for all local calls within the region, regardless of the area code. This change ensures that calls are correctly routed and avoids any disruptions to communication.
Impact on Montreal and Surrounding Regions
The 354 area code is expected to have a positive impact on the Montreal metropolitan area and its surrounding regions. It addresses the shortage of available phone numbers, ensuring that residents and businesses can continue to access essential communication services. The new area code also reflects the region’s growth and development, as it continues to attract new residents and businesses.
Looking Ahead
The 354 area code is a testament to the ongoing evolution of telecommunications in Canada. As technology advances and communication needs change, the implementation of new area codes like 354 ensures that the country’s infrastructure can adapt and keep pace with the growing demand. The 354 area code is poised to play a crucial role in connecting communities and fostering economic growth in Montreal and its surrounding regions for years to come.
In addition to the 354 area code, the country code +354 is the international dialing code for Iceland.
