Nicaragua SMS Guide - sms-compliance -

Frequently Asked Questions

Use a reputable SMS API provider like Twilio, Sinch, MessageBird, or Plivo. Ensure phone numbers are formatted with the +505 country code and comply with local regulations. Remember that two-way SMS is not supported; messages are one-way from businesses to consumers.
Nicaragua's mobile market is dominated by Claro and Movistar, with a preference for OTT apps, but SMS remains important for business communication and authentication, especially in areas with limited internet access.
MMS is not directly supported. Attempts to send MMS result in conversion to SMS with a URL link to the media content. This maintains compatibility with local networks while ensuring message delivery.
Prohibited content includes gambling, adult material, illegal products/services, cryptocurrency promotions, and unauthorized political campaign messages. Financial and healthcare messages have specific regulations.
Comply with general telecommunications rules by TELCOR. Prioritize explicit opt-in consent, honor opt-out requests (STOP, CANCELAR, NO, AYUDA, HELP), and maintain thorough documentation of consent and opt-out activity.
The recommended sending window is 8:00 AM to 8:00 PM local time (Central Time, UTC-6). Avoid sending on Sundays and national holidays unless it's an emergency. Emergency messages can be sent 24/7.
Standard GSM-7 encoding allows 160 characters before splitting into concatenated messages. UCS-2 encoding allows 70 characters before concatenation. Keep messages concise for optimal delivery and cost efficiency.
No, sending SMS to landlines is not supported and will result in delivery failure with a 400 response error (code 21614) from SMS API providers. No charges are incurred for failed delivery.
Process opt-out requests within 24 hours, send a confirmation, and maintain a centralized opt-out database. Regularly audit your list for compliance. Support opt-out keywords in Spanish (STOP, CANCELAR, NO) and English.
Keep messages under 160 characters, include clear calls to action, and personalize with the recipient's name. Respect local holidays, use formal Spanish, and send 2-3 messages per week maximum.
Alphanumeric sender IDs are supported but not preserved. They are overwritten with short codes. Pre-registration is not required for using alphanumeric sender IDs.
Rate limits vary by provider: Twilio (250/sec), Sinch (100/sec), MessageBird (150/sec), and Plivo (200/sec). Use queue systems and batch sending for high-volume campaigns.
Number portability is not available. Mobile numbers remain tied to the original carrier, simplifying message routing but restricting consumer choice.
Twilio, Sinch, MessageBird, and Plivo offer SMS services for Nicaragua. Refer to the code examples in the documentation for implementation details.
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