A system and method are provided to obtain and use time zone information as presence in instant messaging. The time zone information is obtained by a user's mobile device and is sent to other mobile devices corresponding to the user's contacts. The time zone information of a contact may be displayed on the user's IM application, including the contact list and instant messaging conversation window. The location of the mobile device may also be provided. The user uses the time zone and location information to discern the status of a contact. Rule-based decisions that rely on the time zone information are also used to affect the operation of the instant messaging application.