Bhutan Phone Numbers: Format, Area Code & Validation Guide
Bhutan phone number format (+975) explained: area codes, validation & dialing. Understand landline (2[3-6]XXXXXX), mobile (17[1-8]XXXXXX) patterns. Includes regex for validation and ITU-T E.164 compliance details.
Phone number standards3 min read
Frequently asked questions
The Bhutan country code is +975. This code is required when dialing Bhutanese numbers from outside the country, preceding the area code and subscriber number. It ensures proper routing of international calls to Bhutan's telecommunications network, as per ITU-T E.164 standards.
To dial a Bhutan mobile number within Bhutan, dial the full mobile number, including the prefix. Mobile numbers typically start with 17 or 77, followed by six additional digits. For example, you would dial 17123456 or 7712345, without needing the country code.
Bhutanese phone numbers can be validated using regular expressions (regex). For example, geographic landline numbers use the regex ^2[3-6]\d{6}$, mobile numbers use ^17[1-8]\d{6}$|^77\d{6}$, and special service numbers use ^1[1-9]\d{3}$. These patterns ensure the number adheres to the correct format.
Bhutan landline area codes vary by region and are represented by a single digit within the range of 2[3-6]. This area code is followed by a six-digit subscriber number, resulting in a total of seven digits for local dialing. For example, Thimphu's area code might be 2, followed by a six digit number like 334567.
Currently, Bhutan does not support mobile number portability (MNP). This means that subscribers who change mobile providers must obtain a new phone number. There is no information on when or if this policy may change according to the provided document.
Bhutan landline numbers follow the format 2[3-6]XXXXXX, where 2 indicates a landline, followed by a single digit area code ranging from 3 to 6, and a six-digit subscriber number. This sums up to a seven-digit number within Bhutan and a ten-digit number including the country code (+975) for international calls.
Bhutan mobile numbers consist of nine digits, including the prefix (17 or 77) and six additional digits. Including the country code (+975), a Bhutanese mobile number consists of twelve digits when dialing internationally.
The +975 country code is necessary when making international calls to Bhutan. It should be dialed before the full Bhutanese phone number, whether it's a landline or mobile number. For domestic calls within Bhutan, the country code is not required.
The Bhutan InfoComm and Media Authority (BICMA) is the regulatory body responsible for overseeing Bhutan's telecommunications sector. BICMA manages number allocation, ensures compliance with international standards like ITU-T E.164, and provides updates on Bhutan's numbering plan.
No, mobile number portability is not currently supported in Bhutan. If you change mobile providers, you will need to obtain a new phone number from your new provider.
To make an international call from Bhutan, dial the international prefix 00, followed by the country code of the destination, the area code (if applicable), and the subscriber number. For instance, to call the US, you would dial 00 1 [area code] [subscriber number].
The main mobile operators in Bhutan are Bhutan Telecom and TashiCell. Bhutan Telecom utilizes number ranges starting with 17 and 77, while TashiCell also uses number ranges starting with 77.
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Quick Reference
Overview
This guide offers an in-depth look at Bhutan's telephone numbering system, including number formats, dialing procedures, and regulatory insights. It's an essential resource for telecom professionals, developers, and system administrators managing Bhutanese phone numbers.
Number Formats
General Number Structure
Bhutanese phone numbers consist of:
Detailed Number Formats
2[3-6]XXXXXX17[1-8]XXXXXX,77XXXXXX1[1-9]XXXXRegular Expressions for Number Validation
For developers, use these regex patterns to validate Bhutanese numbers:
Dialing Procedures
Domestic Calls
International Calls
00followed by the country code, area code (if applicable), and subscriber number (e.g., 00 1 234 5678901 for a call to the USA).+975followed by the full Bhutanese number (e.g., +975 2334567 for a landline).Recent and Upcoming Changes to the Numbering Plan
Currently, there are no significant changes to Bhutan's numbering plan. For the latest updates, refer to the Bhutan InfoComm and Media Authority (BICMA).
Number Portability
Major Telecom Operators and Number Ranges
17[1-8]XXXXXX,77XXXXXX77XXXXXX2[3-6]XXXXXXITU-T Recommendations and Standards
Bhutan follows the ITU-T E.164 standard for international numbering, ensuring global consistency. The country code is +975, with a maximum number length of 12 digits.
Number Allocation and Management
Technical Restrictions and Special Cases
Technical Considerations for Developers
Handling Number Validation
When dealing with Bhutanese numbers, consider:
API Integration
For phone number validation or manipulation services, integrate with international telecom APIs that support Bhutanese formats. Ensure compliance with ITU-T standards and local regulations.