Kosovo Phone Number Formats and Dialing Rules

Quick Facts

  • Country: Kosovo
  • Country Code: +383
  • International Prefix: 00
  • National Prefix: 0

Introduction

This comprehensive guide delves into the intricacies of Kosovo's telephone numbering system. It is tailored for telecom professionals, developers, and anyone seeking detailed insights into Kosovo's telecommunications framework.

Phone Number Structures

Kosovo's phone numbers follow a standardized national numbering plan. Here's a detailed breakdown of different number types, including landline, mobile, toll-free, and premium-rate numbers.

General Structure

  • Country Code: +383
  • National Significant Number (NSN) Length: 8 digits
  • National Prefix: 0 (for domestic calls)

Landline Numbers

Landline numbers typically have a 2-digit prefix followed by a 6-digit subscriber number.

Format: 3X XXXXXX

  • Example: 38 123456 (Pristina prefix)

Mobile Numbers

Mobile numbers start with a 2-digit prefix, followed by a 6-digit subscriber number, specific to each operator.

Format: 4X XXXXXX

  • Example: 44 123456 (mobile operator prefix)

Toll-Free Numbers

Toll-free numbers begin with 800 followed by a 5-digit subscriber number.

Format: 800 XXXXX

  • Example: 800 12345

Premium Rate Numbers

Premium rate numbers start with 900 followed by a 5-digit subscriber number.

Format: 900 XXXXX

  • Example: 900 12345

Number Formats Table

Number TypeFormatExample
Landline3X XXXXXX38 123456
Mobile4X XXXXXX44 123456
Toll-Free800 XXXXX800 12345
Premium Rate900 XXXXX900 12345

Validating Kosovo Phone Numbers

Use the following regular expressions (regex) to validate Kosovo phone numbers:

  • Landline: /^3[0-9]{1} [0-9]{6}$/
  • Mobile: /^4[0-9]{1} [0-9]{6}$/
  • Toll-Free: /^800 [0-9]{5}$/
  • Premium Rate: /^900 [0-9]{5}$/

Dialing Procedures

Domestic Calls

  • Landline to Landline: Dial 0 + 8-digit number.
  • Landline to Mobile: Dial 0 + mobile number.
  • Mobile to Mobile: Dial the 8-digit mobile number directly.

International Calls

  • Outgoing: Dial 00 + country code + phone number.
  • Incoming: Dial +383 + 8-digit NSN.

Number Portability

Kosovo supports number portability, allowing users to retain their numbers when switching operators, applicable to both mobile and fixed lines.

Major Telecom Operators

Here's a look at Kosovo's main telecom operators and their number ranges:

OperatorMobile PrefixesLandline Prefixes
Vala44, 4538 (Pristina)
IPKO4939 (Other Areas)
Z-Mobile43N/A

Regulatory Authority

The Kosovo Communications Regulatory Authority (KCRA) oversees telecommunications in Kosovo. Visit their website for official updates and information.

Technical Insights

Number Management

The KCRA manages phone number allocation, ensuring compliance with ITU-T standards and accommodating technological growth.

ITU-T Compliance

Kosovo's numbering plan aligns with ITU-T E.164 recommendations, ensuring global interoperability and standardization.

Special Considerations

  • Golden Numbers: Offered for a premium, these are memorable numbers often used by businesses.
  • Number Blocking: Numbers may be blocked for reasons like fraud prevention or regulatory non-compliance.

Note: For the latest telecom regulations in Kosovo, refer to the KCRA's official site.