Andorra SMS Guidelines: Complete Compliance & Technical Guide for 2025

Sending SMS messages in Andorra requires understanding both technical specifications and compliance requirements under Andorra's data protection law, LQPD (Law 29/2021, effective May 17, 2022). This comprehensive guide covers Andorra Telecom's network architecture (MCC 213), GSM-7 character encoding standards, consent management requirements, multilingual opt-out procedures, and current SMS pricing for 2025.

Whether you're implementing messaging APIs, planning SMS marketing campaigns, or ensuring regulatory compliance, this guide provides complete technical documentation and step-by-step implementation guidance for sending SMS legally in Andorra.

Technical Specifications for Andorran SMS

Understanding these core components is crucial for successful implementation.

What Network Codes Does Andorra Use for SMS?

Andorra's SMS infrastructure adheres to ITU-T Recommendation E.212 (last updated per ITU operational bulletins through 2024). The system uses Mobile Country Code (MCC) 213, paired with carrier-specific Mobile Network Codes (MNC), to create unique network identifiers. This configuration enables accurate message routing and delivery tracking within Andorra's telecommunications network.

Note: MCC 213 is Andorra's mobile network identifier under ITU-T E.212. This differs from telephone country code 213, which is assigned to Algeria under ITU-T E.164.

For phone number formats and country codes, see our guide on E.164 phone number formatting.

Implementation Example

Country Code: +376
MCC: 213
MNC Format: 2-3 digits
Network Identifier: MCC + MNC (e.g., 213-03)

Incorporate these identifiers when configuring your SMS applications to ensure seamless communication with Andorran mobile networks.

What Are the SMS Character Limits in Andorra?

Andorra supports both GSM-7 and Unicode encoding, each with distinct characteristics.

Standard GSM-7 Implementation

The primary encoding method is GSM-7 (3GPP TS 23.038), a 7-bit character set mandatory for all GSM handsets and network elements. It supports up to 160 characters per message segment. This encoding works for messages containing:

• Basic Latin alphabet (A–Z, a–z)
• Numbers (0–9)
• Standard punctuation marks
• Common special characters (@, #, $, etc.)

Note: Some characters in GSM-7 require escape codes (|, ^, {, }, €, [, ~, ], ) and count as two characters.

Unicode (UTF-16) Handling

When your message includes characters outside the GSM-7 charset (emojis or non-Latin characters), the system automatically switches to Unicode (UCS-2/UTF-16) encoding. This provides broader character support with trade-offs:

• Reduced character limit (70 characters per segment)
• Increased message segments for longer content
• Higher delivery costs per message

How SMS Message Segmentation Works in Andorra

For messages exceeding the single-segment limit (160 characters for GSM-7, 70 for Unicode), Andorra Telecom employs automatic segmentation:

1. Messages divide into segments based on encoding limit
2. Each segment includes a User Data Header (UDH) for reassembly
3. The UDH consumes 6 bytes, reducing available space to 153 characters per segment for GSM-7 or 67 characters per segment for Unicode
4. Segments transmit individually and reassemble on the recipient's device
5. The standard theoretically supports up to 255 segments, though practical implementations typically limit this to 6–10 segments

Practical limits for concatenated messages:

• GSM-7: 153 characters per segment (918 characters for 6 segments)
• Unicode: 67 characters per segment (402 characters for 6 segments)

Consider message length and segmentation when designing your SMS applications to manage costs and user experience.

Multimedia Content Delivery

While direct MMS (Multimedia Messaging Service) isn't supported, Andorra Telecom offers a URL-based content delivery system. This innovative approach allows you to share multimedia content via SMS.

1. Content Processing:

   • Multimedia files are uploaded to secure servers.
   • Each file is assigned a unique, time-limited URL.
   • The URL is automatically shortened for inclusion in the SMS message.

2. Delivery Method:

   • Recipients receive an SMS containing:
     • Your custom message text
     • The shortened secure URL
     • Access instructions (if needed)
   • Links typically remain active for 7 days.

This method provides a workaround for sharing multimedia content, although it relies on the recipient having data access to retrieve the content.

Does Andorra Support Alphanumeric Sender IDs?

Andorra fully supports alphanumeric sender IDs with no pre-registration required, allowing you to display your brand name or service identifier to recipients.

Rate Limits:

• Typical throughput: 50–100 messages per second
• Actual limits depend on your API provider and carrier agreements
• Contact your provider for custom rate limit arrangements

Network Infrastructure and Coverage

Andorra Telecom, as the sole telecommunications provider in Andorra (operating as a telecommunications monopoly), maintains robust network infrastructure and extensive coverage throughout the country.

Coverage Specifications

Andorra Telecom provides comprehensive mobile network coverage across the country, including specialized indoor mobile coverage solutions for businesses and buildings. The network operates using:

• GSM bands: 2 bands
• UMTS band: 1 band
• LTE bands: 2 bands (4G)
• 5G NR band: 1 band

The company offers indoor mobile coverage services to ensure call quality and mobile data connectivity in any part of a business or building, addressing signal challenges in enclosed spaces.

Infrastructure Modernization (2024)

In 2024, Andorra Telecom completed major infrastructure modernization projects:

Fiber Optic Upgrade (Completed 2024):

• 47 interventions across all seven parishes
• 260 hours of night work (00:00–05:00) to minimize service disruption
• 169 cards replaced from 19 fiber equipment units distributed across all exchanges
• Investment: €1.625 million in equipment upgrades
• Technology: New ONT XGSPON (10GPON) access equipment deployed
• Result: Updated fiber optic infrastructure throughout the entire country, enabling higher internet speeds for homes and businesses
• Customer benefit: Single integrated router and Wi-Fi device, with service improvements rolling out during 2025

Telephony Platform Migration (2024–2025):

• Migration to new Ericsson technological platform (final phase as of late 2024)
• 32 teams supporting mobile and landline services
• 80 interventions since March 2024 (approximately two per week)
• Only three teams remained to be migrated as of late 2024, with completion expected within three weeks
• Benefits: Enhanced stability, scalability, and capacity for Wi-Fi calling (available for iPhone, rolling out for Samsung, Xiaomi, and Pixel) and IP messaging
• Future roadmap: Advanced 5G deployment planned for 2026 with "cloud native" systems implementation
• Achievement: Minimal customer impact despite highly complex technical operation, due to high network redundancy

Service Reliability

Andorra Telecom prioritizes service reliability through network redundancy and robust failover mechanisms:

• Primary data centers: Located in Andorra la Vella
• Backup systems: Ensure seamless switching in case of primary system failure
• 99.99% uptime guarantee: For SMS services

This high level of redundancy minimizes service disruptions and ensures consistent message delivery. You can rely on the Andorran network for mission-critical SMS applications.

Andorra SMS Compliance: Legal Requirements Under LQPD

Andorra's data protection is governed by Law 29/2021 (Qualified Personal Data Protection Law – LQPD), enacted on October 28, 2021, and entered into force on May 17, 2022. The law replaced Andorra's 2003 data protection law and aligns with GDPR principles, modernizing the country's privacy framework.

Enforcement Authority: The Andorran Data Protection Agency (APDA) oversees compliance, conducts inspections, investigates violations, and issues sanctions.

EU Adequacy Status: Andorra has received an adequacy decision from the European Commission, allowing personal data transfers between the EU and Andorra without additional safeguards.

Similar SMS compliance frameworks apply across Europe. For comparison, see our guides on Albania SMS regulations and area code 201 SMS regulations for international perspectives.

Message Content Requirements

Your SMS messages must adhere to specific content guidelines:

1. Sender Identification: Clearly identify your business or brand. Include valid contact information and your registered business identifier.

2. Message Structure: Always include clear opt-out instructions. Clearly identify the service being offered and provide transparent pricing for premium services.

3. Age Restrictions: For recipients under 16 years old, obtain consent from their legal representative or holder of parental responsibility before sending SMS communications (LQPD Article 8).

How Much Does SMS Cost in Andorra?

Premium SMS services, which involve charging recipients, follow structured pricing tiers. Current market rates for 2025:

• Domestic SMS rates: €0.05–€0.10 per message
• International SMS rates: €0.20–€1.00 per message
• API provider costs: $0.025–$0.132 per message (verified via Twilio pricing)
• Volume discounts: Typically 10–30% based on commitment

Note: Pricing for domestic messages is regulated by the Andorran government. Direct carrier relationships with Andorra Telecom are essential for reliable local message delivery. For more information on SMS pricing structures, see our 10DLC SMS registration guide.

Documentation Requirements

Maintaining accurate records is crucial for demonstrating compliance under LQPD:

• Consent records: Minimum 2 years
• Message logs: Minimum 1 year
• Opt-out requests: Minimum 5 years
• Campaign performance metrics: Track and document your campaign results

These documentation requirements ensure transparency and accountability in your SMS operations.

Penalties and Enforcement

The APDA is empowered to issue warnings and levy financial fines for non-compliance:

• Very serious infringements: €30,001–€100,000 (violations of core rights, consent requirements, international transfer rules)
• Serious infringements: €15,001–€30,000 (inadequate security measures, failure to notify breaches, lack of DPO when required)
• Minor infringements: €500–€15,000 (documentation deficiencies, delayed responses to data subject requests)

Additional liability: Data subjects can claim compensation within 1 year for damages resulting from violations. Controllers and processors face civil liability beyond administrative fines.

Breach notification requirements:

• Notify APDA within 72 hours of becoming aware of a personal data breach
• Notify affected data subjects without delay if breach poses high risk to their rights and freedoms

SMS Compliance Implementation: Step-by-Step Guide

Implementing compliant SMS messaging in Andorra requires careful attention to consent management, timing, and opt-out procedures.

How to Obtain SMS Consent in Andorra (LQPD Requirements)

Consent management is the cornerstone of compliant SMS messaging. Obtain explicit consent from recipients before sending any SMS communications. Law 29/2021 (LQPD) requires consent to be:

• Explicit: Clear affirmative action required
• Specific: Tied to particular purposes
• Informed: Recipients understand what they're consenting to
• Freely given: No coercion or bundling with other services
• Revocable: Recipients can withdraw consent at any time

Collecting Valid Consent

Before sending any SMS messages, obtain explicit opt-in consent through a clear and documented process:

• Multilingual Consent: Present consent options in Catalan, French, and Spanish
• Purpose Transparency: Clearly state specific purposes for SMS communication. Use separate checkboxes for each purpose – bundled consent is not permitted under LQPD
• Business Identification: Provide your business identity and contact information
• Accessible Terms and Conditions: Offer easy access to your terms and conditions
• Documentation: Document the exact consent language presented to each recipient

Consent Record Management

Maintain detailed consent records in your system, including:

{
  "consent_record": {
    "timestamp": "2023-12-01T14:30:00Z",
    "collection_method": "web_form",
    "consent_scope": ["marketing", "notifications"],
    "identity_verification": {
      "method": "phone_verification",
      "verification_id": "ver_123456"
    },
    "legal_basis": "LQPD_Law_29_2021_explicit_consent"
  }
}

Crucially, store all consent data using industry-standard encryption protocols and secure storage systems. Implement regular backup procedures and access controls to protect these sensitive records.

When Is the Best Time to Send SMS in Andorra?

Timing your messages maximizes effectiveness and respects recipient preferences.

Time Window Management

Adhere to appropriate delivery windows:

• Primary delivery window: 8:00 AM to 9:00 PM (UTC+1/UTC+2)
• Smart Delivery Scheduling: Implement logic to prevent messages sent outside the allowed window

def is_valid_delivery_time(recipient_number):
    andorra_time = get_local_time('Europe/Andorra')
    return 8 <= andorra_time.hour <= 21

This function checks if the current time in Andorra falls within the acceptable delivery window. Adapt this logic to your specific application needs.

Delivery Optimization

Follow Andorra Telecom's recommended practices for optimal delivery:

• Monitor delivery success rates: Track performance across different time slots
• Adaptive Sending: Adjust sending patterns based on performance metrics
• Detailed Logs: Maintain comprehensive delivery logs for compliance

These practices ensure efficient message delivery and provide valuable data for optimizing your SMS campaigns.

Setting Up SMS Opt-Out Systems for Andorra

Providing a seamless opt-out mechanism is essential for respecting user preferences and maintaining compliance.

Multi-language Opt-out Commands

Support standard opt-out commands in all supported languages:

Catalan: STOP, BAIXA, NO, ATURA, AJUDA
French: STOP, ARRÊTER, ARRÊT, AIDE
Spanish: STOP, BAJA, PARAR, AYUDA
English: STOP, CANCEL, UNSUBSCRIBE, HELP

This multilingual approach ensures accessibility for all users.

Opt-out Processing Protocol

Implement a robust opt-out processing protocol:

1. Acknowledgement: Acknowledge opt-out requests within 1 hour, providing immediate feedback to the user.
2. Processing Time: Complete opt-out processing within 24 hours, based on Twilio's country-specific guidelines for Andorra.
3. Confirmation: Send a confirmation message in the user's preferred language, confirming their opt-out request.
4. Database Update: Update your central database immediately to prevent further messages from being sent to the opted-out number.
5. Audit Trail: Maintain a comprehensive audit trail of all opt-out activities for compliance and troubleshooting.

This structured protocol ensures prompt and efficient handling of opt-out requests.

Registry Verification System

Implement a system for verifying numbers against the do-not-contact registry.

Verification Workflow

1. Initial Registry Check: Screen numbers against the current do-not-contact registry before sending any messages. Document the verification timestamp and results. Flag any matching numbers in your database.

2. Ongoing Monitoring: Perform monthly registry updates to stay current with changes. Implement automated verification systems for efficiency. Maintain comprehensive audit trails of all verification activities.

Documentation Requirements

Maintain detailed records of all verification activities:

{
  "verification_record": {
    "number": "+376XXXXXXX",
    "check_date": "2023-12-01",
    "registry_version": "2023.12",
    "status": "cleared",
    "next_check_date": "2024-01-01"
  }
}

This structured approach ensures that you avoid contacting numbers registered on the do-not-contact list.

Frequently Asked Questions About SMS in Andorra

What is the SMS character limit in Andorra?

Single SMS messages in Andorra support up to 160 characters using GSM-7 encoding or 70 characters using Unicode (UTF-16) encoding. For concatenated messages, each segment contains 153 characters (GSM-7) or 67 characters (Unicode) due to the 6-byte User Data Header (UDH) overhead.

Do I need consent to send SMS marketing in Andorra?

Yes. Law 29/2021 (LQPD, effective May 17, 2022) requires explicit, informed consent before sending any SMS marketing messages. Consent must be freely given, specific to the purpose, and revocable at any time. For recipients under 16 years old, obtain parental or legal guardian consent (LQPD Article 8).

What are the permitted SMS sending hours in Andorra?

SMS messages should be sent between 8:00 AM and 9:00 PM (UTC+1/UTC+2) in Andorra. Best practice suggests sending between 10:00 AM and 8:00 PM for optimal engagement while respecting recipient preferences and avoiding national holidays.

How much does it cost to send SMS in Andorra?

Current market rates for 2025 are: domestic SMS €0.05–€0.10 per message, international SMS €0.20–€1.00 per message, and API provider costs $0.025–$0.132 per message. Volume discounts of 10–30% are typically available based on commitment levels.

Does Andorra support alphanumeric sender IDs?

Yes, Andorra fully supports alphanumeric sender IDs with no pre-registration required. This allows you to display your brand name or service identifier to recipients instead of a phone number.

What opt-out commands must I support in Andorra?

You must support multilingual opt-out commands including Catalan (STOP, BAIXA, NO, ATURA), French (STOP, ARRÊTER, ARRÊT), Spanish (STOP, BAJA, PARAR), and English (STOP, CANCEL, UNSUBSCRIBE). All opt-out requests must be acknowledged within 1 hour and processed within 24 hours.

Is two-way SMS supported in Andorra?

No, two-way SMS functionality is not currently available through most A2P (Application-to-Person) SMS providers in Andorra. Businesses cannot receive replies to their SMS messages through standard commercial channels.

What is the Mobile Country Code (MCC) for Andorra?

Andorra's Mobile Country Code (MCC) is 213, as defined by ITU-T Recommendation E.212 (June 2024). When combined with carrier-specific Mobile Network Codes (MNC), it creates unique network identifiers (e.g., 213-03 for Mobiland).

How long must I retain SMS consent records in Andorra?

Under LQPD compliance requirements, retain consent records for a minimum of 2 years, message logs for at least 1 year, and opt-out requests for a minimum of 5 years.

Can I send SMS to landline numbers in Andorra?

No, sending SMS to landline numbers in Andorra is not supported and will result in failed delivery with a 400 response code (error code 21614), with no charges incurred.

What languages should SMS opt-out commands support in Andorra?

Andorra requires multilingual opt-out support in Catalan, French, Spanish, and English to accommodate the country's linguistic diversity. Common commands include STOP, BAIXA (Catalan), ARRÊTER (French), BAJA (Spanish), and UNSUBSCRIBE (English).

Is MMS supported in Andorra?

Direct MMS (Multimedia Messaging Service) is not supported in Andorra. However, Andorra Telecom offers a URL-based content delivery system where multimedia files are uploaded to secure servers and recipients receive SMS messages with shortened URLs to access the content (typically active for 7 days).

Conclusion

Quick Reference Summary:

This guide equips you with essential knowledge and best practices for navigating the Andorran SMS landscape. By understanding technical specifications, regulatory framework, and implementation guidelines, you can develop and deploy compliant and effective SMS applications in Andorra. Prioritize user consent, respect local regulations, and continuously optimize your messaging strategies.

Key Limitations to Note:

• Concatenated messages are supported (longer messages split and reassembled)
• Landline SMS is not supported
• MMS is converted to SMS with embedded URLs
• Andorra Telecom provides excellent indoor mobile coverage solutions for businesses