Phone numbers are regulated, and every country has its own regulations. Before a number is issued, you submit the details and documents that country requires, in Wyra, while getting the number. This article explains what usually decides those requirements, with examples.
What decides the requirements
- The country. Each country's regulator sets its own rules. Some ask only for a name and address. Others ask for company registration documents and an address inside the country, or inside the area the number covers.
- The type of number. Local, national, mobile and toll-free numbers in the same country often have different requirements.
- Who the number is for. Businesses usually provide a company registration document, a business address and an authorised representative. Individuals usually provide a government ID and proof of address. Some numbers are only issued to businesses.
Getting it right first time
- Match exactly. Names and addresses must be the same on every document and in every field.
- Recent proof of address. Usually dated within the last three months: a utility bill, tax notice or similar.
- A real street address. P.O. boxes and virtual addresses aren't accepted.
- Allow a few business days. That's how long review normally takes.
Keep your details current. Regulators and carriers can disconnect numbers registered with information that is wrong or out of date. If your company moves or changes its name, tell Wyra.
Examples
These show how much requirements vary. Rules change, so treat them as a guide.
| Country | What's typically needed |
|---|---|
| Germany | Local numbers are only issued to businesses, with an address in the area the number covers. Mobile numbers are also business-only, with an address anywhere in Germany. Provide a commercial register excerpt, a trade licence or a tax ID letter. Toll-free numbers are allocated by the regulator on application and need a German address. |
| United Kingdom | Local and national numbers need a UK address. Individuals provide photo ID and proof of their UK address. Mobile and toll-free numbers accept an address anywhere. |
| Australia | Local numbers need an Australian street address. Businesses provide a current company extract and their ABN or ACN. Individuals provide ID and proof of address, and may use the number for business only. Business mobile and toll-free numbers accept an address anywhere, with registration details. |
Choosing a number type
| Type | Good for |
|---|---|
| Local | Calling prospects in one city or region. A local number is the most familiar to them, and often has the strictest address rules. |
| National | One number for calling across the whole country. |
| Mobile | Countries where prospects expect a mobile number. Some countries accept an address abroad. |
| Toll-free | Inbound calls from customers. Usually less suited to outbound sales calls. |
Start with where your prospects are, then check what you can provide. If one type is hard to qualify for, another type in the same country may be easier. Wyra can help you choose.