SMS Guidelines for Timor-Leste: Compliance, Message Length, and Best Practices
Understanding the specific SMS guidelines for Timor-Leste is crucial for ensuring effective and compliant communication. This article outlines essential aspects such as two-way SMS support, number portability, message length, and compliance best practices.
General Locale Information
Timor-Leste, situated in the Oceania region, is identified by the ISO code "TL" and the mobile country code (MCC) of 514. The international dialing code for Timor-Leste is +670, which must be used when sending SMS messages to this region.
Two-Way SMS Support
Two-way SMS is not supported in Timor-Leste. This limitation means users in Timor-Leste cannot reply to SMS messages using the same channel.
Number Portability
Number portability, which allows users to keep their mobile numbers when switching service providers, is not available in Timor-Leste. Users changing providers will receive new phone numbers.
Message Length and Concatenation
In Timor-Leste, concatenated message support is unavailable. Concatenation allows long messages to be split into segments and reassembled on the recipient’s device. Without this feature, keeping SMS messages short is advisable to prevent truncation or delivery issues.
MMS Support
Multimedia Messaging Service (MMS) is not directly supported in Timor-Leste. Instead, MMS messages are converted into SMS messages with an embedded URL. Recipients receive a link to access the multimedia content.
Sending SMS to Landline Numbers
Sending SMS messages to landline numbers in Timor-Leste is not possible. Attempts to send an SMS to a landline number will result in a 400 error with code 21614 from the Sent REST API. The message will not be logged, and no charges will apply.
Compliance Considerations
Adhering to local regulations is vital when sending SMS messages. It is recommended to consult with qualified legal counsel to ensure compliance with applicable laws. Here are some best practices for SMS campaigns in Timor-Leste:
- Opt-in Consent: Secure opt-in consent from users before sending any communication, especially marketing or non-essential messages.
- Daytime Communication: Restrict SMS messages to local daytime hours unless urgent.
- HELP/STOP Support: Ensure SMS campaigns support standard HELP/STOP commands in the recipient’s local language.
- Do-Not-Call Registries: Avoid contacting users listed on do-not-call or do-not-disturb registries.
By following these guidelines, your SMS campaigns in Timor-Leste can remain effective and compliant with local regulations.
FAQs
Does Timor-Leste support two-way SMS?
No, two-way SMS is not supported in Timor-Leste.
Can I send SMS to landline numbers in Timor-Leste?
No, SMS messages cannot be sent to landline numbers in Timor-Leste; the Sent REST API will return an error.
Is number portability available in Timor-Leste?
No, number portability is not available in Timor-Leste.
For more information on international SMS guidelines, visit the official Timor-Leste telecommunications website.