Frequently Asked Questions
Ukraine is transitioning to the EU standard 112 emergency number, but traditional numbers like 101 (fire), 102 (police), and 103 (ambulance) are still operational. Developers should support both 112 and the existing numbers to ensure uninterrupted access to emergency services during the transition period, targeted for completion by the end of 2024.
The standard format for Ukrainian phone numbers is +380 XX XXXXXXX, where +380 is the country code, XX is the two-digit network code, and XXXXXXX is the seven-digit subscriber number. Input cleansing is crucial to handle variations in user input, such as spaces, hyphens, or parentheses.
Ukraine's three primary mobile operators are Kyivstar (codes 67, 68, 96, 97, 98), Vodafone Ukraine (50, 66, 95, 99), and Lifecell (63, 73, 93). Developers should ensure compatibility with all three for maximum reach.
Mobile Number Portability (MNP) allows users to switch operators while keeping their number. This means developers shouldn't rely solely on network codes for validation and should consult the NCCIR for updates, as Vodafone's discounts for ported numbers demonstrate MNP's competitive impact.
To dial a Ukrainian number internationally, use the format +380 XX XXXXXXX, where XX is the network code and XXXXXXX is the subscriber number. Local dialing formats vary, including 7 digits for the same area (landline), 0 + area code + number for different areas, and 0 + operator code + number for mobile.
The NCCIR (National Commission for the State Regulation of Communications and Informatization) regulates Ukraine's telecommunications. They manage number allocation, service quality, emergency service routing, and the 112 rollout. Developers should stay informed about NCCIR regulations and updates.
While Ukraine is transitioning to 112, existing emergency numbers (101, 102, 103, 104) remain fully functional. Applications should ideally support both during this transition phase to ensure reliable access to emergency services. The NCCIR aims for complete 112 coverage by the end of 2024.
For landlines within the same area, dial the 7-digit subscriber number. For different areas, dial 0 + area code + number. International calls require +380 + operator code + number. Developers should consider using a TypeScript interface or similar structure for code clarity.
Kyivstar and Vodafone Ukraine offer 4G/LTE and VoLTE (Kyivstar) or NB-IoT (Vodafone). Lifecell also provides 4G/LTE along with various digital services. Understanding these technologies aids developers in optimizing application performance.
Due to Mobile Number Portability (MNP), you cannot reliably determine the operator solely from the network code. Users can switch operators while retaining their number, requiring developers to implement more sophisticated validation methods and consult the NCCIR.
Besides emergency numbers, consider incorporating directory assistance (109), time service (190), and weather updates (191) into applications for added utility. These numbers offer valuable public information access.
The NCCIR (National Commission for the State Regulation of Communications and Informatization) website is the authoritative source for Ukrainian telecommunications regulations. Developers should consult it for updates on number allocation, MNP, and emergency services.
Ukraine Phone Numbers: Format, Area Code & Validation Guide
Master the Ukrainian phone numbering system with this complete guide to calling Ukraine internationally. Learn the +380 country code, proper phone number format, mobile operator codes (Kyivstar, Vodafone, Lifecell), emergency numbers, and validation best practices for developers building SMS and calling applications.
How to Dial Ukraine Phone Numbers Internationally
To call Ukraine from abroad, dial your country's exit code (011 from USA, 00 from Europe, or + from mobile), followed by 380 (Ukraine's country code), then the 2-digit area or operator code, and finally the 7-digit local number. Example: +380 67 123 4567 for a Kyivstar mobile number or +380 44 123 4567 for a Kyiv landline.
Quick dialing format:
+380 XX XXXXXXX
(9 digits after country code)Emergency Services in Ukraine
Ukraine modernized its emergency response system with the European Union's standard 112. This transition impacts how you handle emergency numbers in your applications.
The 112 System: EU Integration Completed
Ukraine completed 112 implementation as the universal emergency number by end of 2024, achieving nationwide coverage. The EU provided €52 million in support (€40 million EIB loan, €10 million investment grant, €2 million technical assistance), aligning Ukraine with EU emergency service standards (source: European Commission). The system unifies ambulance (103), police (102), fire brigade (101), and emergency gas services (104) under a single number.
System Capabilities (2025):
Support both systems: While 112 operates nationwide, traditional emergency numbers (101, 102, 103, 104) remain functional. Configure your applications to support both 112 and legacy numbers for maximum compatibility and user accessibility. For more information on emergency number validation in other countries, see our guides on international phone number formats and E.164 standards.
Emergency Number Validation Example:
This validation ensures your application recognizes all active emergency numbers in Ukraine, supporting both 112 and legacy numbers.
Existing Emergency Numbers: Maintaining Functionality
Despite the 112 rollout, traditional emergency numbers remain operational and vital for your applications. Ensure your systems recognize and process these numbers:
Display these numbers prominently in applications handling emergency services or location-based assistance in Ukraine.
Essential Service Numbers
Beyond emergency services, other essential numbers provide public information. Add these to your applications where relevant:
These numbers provide public utility information and enhance application functionality.
Ukraine's Mobile Network Operators: Know Your Options
Ukraine's mobile market has three primary operators with approximately 47.5 million mobile subscriptions as of mid-2025. Understand their market share, network codes, and coverage to build robust applications.
Kyivstar: The Market Leader
Kyivstar leads Ukraine's mobile market with approximately 22.4 million subscriptions and 47% market share (mid-2025). The operator provides extensive coverage across populated areas with 4G/LTE and VoLTE technology.
Prioritize compatibility with Kyivstar's network codes given their market dominance and largest subscriber base.
Vodafone Ukraine: A Strong Contender
Vodafone Ukraine (formerly MTS Ukraine) holds 35% market share with approximately 15–16 million subscribers (2025). The operator provides substantial coverage with 4G/LTE and NB-IoT technology.
Support Vodafone Ukraine to reach over one-third of the Ukrainian mobile market.
Lifecell: Growing Third Player
Lifecell, the third-largest operator, holds 17% market share with approximately 7–10 million users (2025). The operator provides 4G/LTE and various digital services. Note: Lifecell merged with Datagroup-Volia to create a stronger integrated operator, though brands operate separately.
Lifecell offers Mobile Number Portability (MNP), allowing users to switch carriers while keeping their number. Consider this factor when designing number validation and handling systems.
Ensure compatibility with all three operators: Support all three major operators to maximize your application's usability with Ukrainian phone numbers.
Operator Detection by Network Code:
Important: Due to Mobile Number Portability (MNP), the original network code may not reflect the current operator. For accurate operator identification, query an MNP database (see section below on MNP).
Coverage and Connectivity (2025): Mobile and Internet coverage in Ukraine reached approximately 98% (excluding temporarily occupied territories) as of 2025, with Internet speeds averaging 31.23 Mbps (source: Ministry of Digital Transformation).
Note on Temporarily Occupied Territories: Account for potential connectivity issues in temporarily occupied regions. As of 2025, approximately 19% of Ukrainian territory remains under temporary occupation, where Ukrainian mobile operators may have limited or no coverage. Russian occupation authorities imposed restrictions on Ukrainian telecommunications infrastructure in these areas, including internet shutdowns and blocking of Ukrainian mobile services. Implement graceful error handling and consider alternative communication methods for users in affected regions.
Ukraine integrates into the EU Roaming area on January 1, 2026, impacting roaming-related functionality for applications handling cross-border communications.
Implementing Ukrainian Phone Numbers: A Developer's Guide
Implement Ukrainian phone number handling with these practical guidelines.
Formatting Ukrainian Phone Numbers
Use the correct format for accurate processing and optimal user experience. The International Telecommunication Union (ITU) assigned Ukraine country code +380 under the E.164 standard. Format Ukrainian phone numbers as
+380 XX XXXXXXX
, where:+380
is the country codeXX
is the two-digit network/area codeXXXXXXX
is the seven-digit subscriber numberExample: +380 44 123 4567 (Kyiv landline) or +380 67 123 4567 (Kyivstar mobile)
Here's an enhanced JavaScript function to format and validate a Ukrainian phone number:
This function validates number format, handles missing '+' signs, and provides clear error messages for invalid inputs.
Handle input variations: Users might input numbers in various formats. Build your system to handle these variations and cleanse the input before processing. Common input variations include:
Complete Input Normalization Example:
Validation with Regular Expressions
For robust validation, use the following regex pattern based on community standards:
Dialing Formats: Local vs. International
Account for different dialing scenarios within your application:
Use a TypeScript interface to define and convert between these formats:
This structured approach improves code readability and maintainability while supporting multiple dialing scenarios.
Number Portability (MNP): Seamless Switching
Ukraine implemented Mobile Number Portability (MNP), allowing users to switch operators while keeping their number. The NCEC regulates this system. Do not rely solely on network codes to determine the operator – numbers can be ported across networks.
Querying MNP Status via API:
Use an MNP lookup service to accurately determine the current serving operator. Several commercial providers offer MNP lookup APIs, including BSG World MNP API:
MNP API Response Fields:
cn
npi
mcc
mnc
nt
rc
Best Practices for MNP:
Vodafone offers discounts for users porting their numbers, demonstrating the competitive landscape and MNP's importance for developers.
Account for number portability: Implement Ukrainian phone numbers with careful attention to formatting, dialing variations, and number portability implications.
The Role of NCEC: Regulation and Oversight
The National Commission for the State Regulation of Electronic Communications, Radiofrequency Spectrum and the Provision of Postal Services (NCEC, also known as NKEK) regulates the telecommunications market. The NCEC reorganized from the former NCCIR and operates under the Law of Ukraine "On Electronic Communications" No. 1089-IX dated January 16, 2020.
The NCEC manages Ukraine's telecommunications landscape. The commission oversees number allocation, service management, emergency service routing, and maintains the register of electronic communication networks and service providers. Stay informed about NCEC regulations. The NCEC coordinated the 112 emergency number rollout, achieving nationwide coverage by end of 2024.
Accessing NCEC Resources:
Access official telecommunications information and regulatory updates through these channels:
While NCEC does not currently provide a public developer API for number validation, their website contains authoritative reference materials including official operator code allocations and numbering plan documentation.
Number Allocation and Assignment
The NCEC manages geographic distribution of numbers and their assignment to operators. The commission allocates special number ranges for specific purposes and maintains the official register of telecom providers.
Service Management and Quality
The NCEC routes emergency services, manages number portability, and monitors telecommunications service quality. Recent 2025 legislation simplified the process for mobile operators to obtain land leases for mobile base station construction, with NCEC maintaining oversight of the network infrastructure register.
Consult NCEC for updates: The NCEC provides authoritative telecommunications regulations in Ukraine. Visit nkek.gov.ua for the latest information. For SMS integration with Ukrainian numbers, explore our SMS API documentation and international SMS pricing guides.
Ukrainian Phone Number Validation: Complete Patterns
Use these comprehensive regex patterns for validation across different contexts:
Basic Pattern (E.164 format):
Flexible Pattern (accepts various input formats):
Strict Mobile-Only Pattern:
Validation Summary Table:
^\+380[3-9]\d{8}$
^0[3-9]\d{8}$
^1(12|0[1-4])$
Troubleshooting Common Issues
Issue 1: Validation fails for correctly formatted numbers
.replace(/[^\d+]/g, '')
to strip all non-digit characters except '+'Issue 2: Operator detection returns incorrect results
Issue 3: Numbers work domestically but fail for international SMS
Issue 4: Emergency number validation inconsistent
Issue 5: Connectivity issues for certain numbers
Frequently Asked Questions About Ukraine Phone Numbers
What is the country code for Ukraine?
The country code for Ukraine is +380. To call Ukraine from the United States, dial 011-380 followed by the area code and local number. From Europe, dial 00-380 plus the area code and local number. From mobile phones worldwide, dial +380 directly followed by the 9-digit phone number (2-digit area/operator code + 7-digit subscriber number). Total format: +380 XX XXXXXXX.
How do I format a Ukrainian phone number correctly?
Format Ukrainian phone numbers as +380 XX XXXXXXX, where:
Examples: +380 67 123 4567 (Kyivstar mobile) or +380 44 123 4567 (Kyiv landline). This follows the international E.164 standard with 9 digits after the country code.
What are the emergency numbers in Ukraine?
Ukraine uses 112 as the universal emergency number (EU standard, completed nationwide rollout end of 2024). You can call 112 for all emergencies: fire, police, ambulance, and gas emergencies.
Legacy emergency numbers remain operational:
Both systems work 24/7. Support both 112 and legacy numbers (101-104) in your applications for maximum compatibility.
Which mobile operators work in Ukraine?
Ukraine has three major mobile operators serving 47.5 million mobile subscriptions (2025):
All three operators support 4G/LTE and mobile number portability (MNP), meaning users can switch carriers while keeping their phone number.
Does Ukraine support mobile number portability?
Yes. Ukraine implemented Mobile Number Portability (MNP), allowing users to switch carriers while keeping their number. Do not rely solely on network codes to determine the operator – numbers can be ported across networks. For SMS applications, MNP affects routing decisions. Use an MNP lookup API to identify the current serving operator for optimal delivery rates and accurate billing. Ported numbers retain their original prefix but route to the new operator's network.
When will Ukraine join the EU Roaming area?
Ukraine is scheduled to integrate into the EU Roaming area effective January 1, 2026 (source: European Commission, June 2025). This integration follows Ukraine's notification in June 2025 of full alignment with EU roaming legislation.
What developers need to prepare for EU roaming:
The integration extends internal market treatment to Ukraine. Ukrainian users traveling to any of the 27 EU countries can use calls, SMS, and data at domestic rates with the same network quality and speed as at home.
What is the E.164 format for Ukrainian numbers?
The E.164 format is the international standard for phone numbers. For Ukraine, the E.164 format is +380XXXXXXXXX (plus sign, country code 380, followed by 9 digits with no spaces or special characters). Example: +380671234567. The International Telecommunication Union (ITU) assigned Ukraine country code +380. Ukrainian numbers contain exactly 9 digits after the country code, well within the E.164 maximum of 15 total digits. Use E.164 format for SMS APIs, international calling, and database storage.
Who regulates telecommunications in Ukraine?
The National Commission for the State Regulation of Electronic Communications, Radiofrequency Spectrum and the Provision of Postal Services (NCEC/NKEK) regulates telecommunications. The commission operates under the Law of Ukraine "On Electronic Communications" No. 1089-IX dated January 16, 2020. Visit nkek.gov.ua for official regulatory information.