New series of telephone numbers introduced for businesses and institutions

As of today businesses and institutions can apply to OPTA for business numbers (‘officially known as numbers providing access to businesses and institutions’). These numbers are part of the 088 series, which offer businesses and institutions the opportunity to use the same dialling code for their various centres in the country (through 088 xxx xxxx). As such, there will no longer be a need for their telephone numbers to include a geographical code (for example, 010, 020, 030, 070 and so forth). This may improve recognition and ease of use when trying to reach businesses or institutions by phone. The Minister of Economic Affairs has decided to make this series available. OPTA is responsible for issuing these business numbers.

Only the relevant businesses or institutions may apply to OPTA themselves for these numbers. To do so, they will need to fill in a form, which can be downloaded from this website. A total of 10 million numbers are available as part of the 088 series. On 21 October OPTA will be proceeding with the actual allocation of any numbers that have been requested. It will be auctioning off any numbers that are the subject of more than one request during the first six months, following which lots will be drawn. The rules governing their issue have been published on this website.

It must be noted that the businesses and institutions are at liberty to use these business numbers but do not have a duty to do so. No paid services may be provided through the use of 088 numbers. The relevant call charges will be confined to the cost of carrying the call concerned.