Vanuatu SMS Guide - sms-compliance -

Frequently Asked Questions

Use the Vanuatu country code (+678) when formatting recipient numbers and utilize an SMS API provider like Twilio, Sinch, MessageBird, or Plivo. Remember to follow compliance guidelines and best practices for successful message delivery. These APIs offer robust functionality and delivery status tracking.
Vanuatu's mobile market relies heavily on SMS due to its widespread accessibility and reliability, particularly in areas with limited internet access. While OTT apps are growing, SMS remains the most dependable communication channel for reaching users across the archipelago.
Two-way SMS is not supported in Vanuatu through major SMS providers. Businesses can send messages but cannot receive replies via the same channel. This limitation affects interactive SMS services.
Send messages between 8:00 AM and 8:00 PM local time (VUT, UTC+11), avoiding public holidays and respecting cultural/religious observances. Urgent messages outside these hours require explicit recipient authorization. Consider local time zone and customs for optimal engagement.
Yes, dynamic alphanumeric sender IDs are supported in Vanuatu without pre-registration, and sender IDs are generally preserved. This allows for brand recognition and personalized messaging, enhancing customer experience.
Concatenated SMS (long messages split into parts) is not supported. Standard SMS character limits apply, and GSM-7 encoding is recommended for maximum character count and device compatibility.
MMS messages are automatically converted to SMS with an embedded URL link, providing access to the multimedia content while ensuring delivery across devices and networks.
Obtain clear, documented opt-in consent before sending marketing messages. Use double opt-in, record consent with timestamps, and provide clear terms and conditions. Maintain updated consent records and honor opt-out requests promptly.
Restricted content includes gambling, adult material, unauthorized financial services, cryptocurrency promotions, and political messaging without authorization. Content filtering is in place to block certain keywords and suspicious URLs.
All campaigns must support STOP and HELP commands in both English and French. Responses should be immediate and in the same language as the request. This ensures compliance and provides a positive user experience.
Support both English and French, Vanuatu's official languages. Consider using local Bislama phrases and clear, simple language. Being mindful of cultural sensitivities improves communication effectiveness.
Avoid spam trigger words, use approved URL shorteners, vary message content for bulk sends, and maintain consistent sending patterns. This helps bypass carrier filters and improves deliverability.
The default rate limit is 1 message per second per destination, with a batch sending limit of 100 messages per request. Daily quotas depend on the account level with the provider.
Number portability is not available in Vanuatu, meaning numbers stay linked to their original carrier, simplifying message routing and delivery.
Use GSM-7 encoding when possible. This encoding maximizes the character limit per SMS (160 characters) and ensures broader compatibility across devices in Vanuatu.
Loading...