ITUPublications International Telecommunication Union

Recommendations Standardization Sector

Recommendation
ITU-T E.212 (06/2024)

SERIES E: Overall network operation, telephone service,

service operation and human factors
International operation – Maritime mobile service and public
land mobile service

The international identification plan for public

networks and subscriptions
 ITU-T E-SERIES RECOMMENDATIONS
Overall network operation, telephone service, service operation and human factors

INTERNATIONAL OPERATION E.100-E.229

Definitions E.100-E.103
General provisions concerning Administrations E.104-E.119
General provisions concerning users E.120-E.139
Operation of international telephone services E.140-E.159
Numbering plan of the international telephone service E.160-E.169
International routing plan E.170-E.179
Tones in national signalling systems E.180-E.189
Numbering plan of the international telephone service E.190-E.199
Maritime mobile service and public land mobile service E.200-E.229
OPERATIONAL PROVISIONS RELATING TO CHARGING AND ACCOUNTING IN THE
E.230-E.299
INTERNATIONAL TELEPHONE SERVICE
UTILIZATION OF THE INTERNATIONAL TELEPHONE NETWORK FOR NON-
E.300-E.329
TELEPHONY APPLICATIONS
ISDN PROVISIONS CONCERNING USERS E.330-E.349
INTERNATIONAL ROUTING PLAN E.350-E.399
NETWORK MANAGEMENT E.400-E.489
TRAFFIC ENGINEERING E.490-E.799
QUALITY OF TELECOMMUNICATION SERVICES: CONCEPTS, MODELS,
E.800-E.899
OBJECTIVES AND DEPENDABILITY PLANNING
OTHER E.900-E.999
INTERNATIONAL OPERATION E.1000-E.1999
NETWORK MANAGEMENT E.4000-E.4999

For further details, please refer to the list of ITU-T Recommendations.

 Recommendation ITU-T E.212

The international identification plan for public networks and subscriptions

Summary
Recommendation ITU-T E.212 defines a unique international identification plan for public fixed and
mobile networks providing users with access to public telecommunication services. The ITU-T E.212
identification plan was originally developed for use in public land mobile networks (PLMNs). The
plan is hierarchical and identifies geographical areas, networks and subscriptions. The main body of
this Recommendation describes the pure identification plan.
The 2024 revision of this Recommendation clarifies the conditions for reclamation in the case of non-
payment of membership fees for mobile network codes (MNCs) under shared ITU-T E.212 mobile
country codes (MCC).

History *

Edition Recommendation Approval Study Group Unique ID

1.0 ITU-T E.212 1984-10-19 11.1002/1000/3197
2.0 ITU-T E.212 1988-11-25 11.1002/1000/440
3.0 ITU-T E.212 1998-11-13 2 11.1002/1000/4528
3.1 ITU-T E.212 (1998) Amd. 1 2003-05-02 2 11.1002/1000/6245
4.0 ITU-T E.212 2004-05-28 2 11.1002/1000/7186
4.1 ITU-T E.212 (2004) Amd. 1 2007-02-08 2 11.1002/1000/8849
5.0 ITU-T E.212 2008-05-15 2 11.1002/1000/9300
5.1 ITU-T E.212 (2008) Amd. 1 2008-09-23 2 11.1002/1000/9523
5.3 ITU-T E.212 (2008) Amd. 2 2010-11-18 2 11.1002/1000/9114
5.4 ITU-T E.212 (2008) Amd. 3 2011-06-10 2 11.1002/1000/11032
6.0 ITU-T E.212 2016-09-23 2 11.1002/1000/12831
6.1 ITU-T E.212 (2016) Amd. 1 2018-07-13 2 11.1002/1000/13868
6.2 ITU-T E.212 (2016) Amd. 2 2020-06-05 2 11.1002/1000/14179
6.3 ITU-T E.212 (2016) Amd. 3 2020-12-18 2 11.1002/1000/14315
7.0 ITU-T E.212 2024-06-28 2 11.1002/1000/15788

Keywords
E.212, MNC, MCC.

* To access the Recommendation, type the URL https://handle.itu.int/ in the address field of your web
browser, followed by the Recommendation's unique ID.

Rec. ITU-T E.212 (06/2024) i

 FOREWORD
The International Telecommunication Union (ITU) is the United Nations specialized agency in the field of
telecommunications, information and communication technologies (ICTs). The ITU Telecommunication
Standardization Sector (ITU-T) is a permanent organ of ITU. ITU-T is responsible for studying technical,
operating and tariff questions and issuing Recommendations on them with a view to standardizing
telecommunications on a worldwide basis.
The World Telecommunication Standardization Assembly (WTSA), which meets every four years, establishes
the topics for study by the ITU-T study groups which, in turn, produce Recommendations on these topics.
The approval of ITU-T Recommendations is covered by the procedure laid down in WTSA Resolution 1.
In some areas of information technology which fall within ITU-T's purview, the necessary standards are
prepared on a collaborative basis with ISO and IEC.

NOTE
In this Recommendation, the expression "Administration" is used for conciseness to indicate both a
telecommunication administration and a recognized operating agency.
Compliance with this Recommendation is voluntary. However, the Recommendation may contain certain
mandatory provisions (to ensure, e.g., interoperability or applicability) and compliance with the
Recommendation is achieved when all of these mandatory provisions are met. The words "shall" or some other
obligatory language such as "must" and the negative equivalents are used to express requirements. The use of
such words does not suggest that compliance with the Recommendation is required of any party.

INTELLECTUAL PROPERTY RIGHTS

ITU draws attention to the possibility that the practice or implementation of this Recommendation may involve
the use of a claimed Intellectual Property Right. ITU takes no position concerning the evidence, validity or
applicability of claimed Intellectual Property Rights, whether asserted by ITU members or others outside of
the Recommendation development process.
As of the date of approval of this Recommendation, ITU had not received notice of intellectual property,
protected by patents/software copyrights, which may be required to implement this Recommendation.
However, implementers are cautioned that this may not represent the latest information and are therefore
strongly urged to consult the appropriate ITU-T databases available via the ITU-T website at
http://www.itu.int/ITU-T/ipr/.

© ITU 2024
All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced, by any means whatsoever, without the prior
written permission of ITU.

ii Rec. ITU-T E.212 (06/2024)

 Table of Contents
Page
1 Scope ............................................................................................................................ 1
2 References..................................................................................................................... 1
3 Definitions .................................................................................................................... 1
4 Abbreviations and acronyms............................................................................................. 2
5 Considerations .............................................................................................................. 2
6 IMSI structure, format and assignment procedures ......................................................... 3
6.1 Structure and format of the IMSI ........................................................................ 3
6.2 IMSI assignment procedures .............................................................................. 3
Annex A Criteria and procedures for the assignment and reclamation of shared ITU-T
E.212 mobile country codes (MCC) for networks and their respective mobile
network codes (MNCs) ..................................................................................................... 4
A.1 Introduction .................................................................................................... 4
A.2 Scope ................................................................................................................... 4
A.3 Principles for assignment ................................................................................... 4
A.4 Criteria for assignment ....................................................................................... 4
A.5 Assignment ..................................................................................................... 5
A.6 Voluntary return of unused MNCs ..................................................................... 6
A.7 Criteria for reclamation....................................................................................... 6
A.8 Reclamation .................................................................................................... 6
A.9 Reconsideration process ..................................................................................... 7
Annex B Principles for the assignment of mobile network codes (MNCs) within
geographic MCCs ......................................................................................................... 8
Annex C Procedures for the assignment of an additional MCC to a country ........................... 10
Annex D Use of mobile subscription identification number (MSIN) ........................................ 11
Annex E The use of an MCC+MNC in a country other than the country to which the
MCC has been assigned by the Director of TSB .......................................................... 12
E.1 Introduction .................................................................................................... 12
E.2 Procedure to be followed for implementation of the extra-territorial use of
an MCC+MNC ................................................................................................... 12
E.3 Voluntary return of an MNC ................................................................................. 13
E.4 Criteria for cancellation of extra-territorial use .................................................. 13
E.5 Cancellation procedures ..................................................................................... 13
Annex F Illustration of uses of ITU-T E.212 resources.............................................................. 14
F.1 Introduction .................................................................................................... 14
F.2 Mobile networks (PLMN) .................................................................................. 14
F.3 Fixed networks (PSTN) ...................................................................................... 14
F.4 Satellite and non-terrestrial networks ................................................................ 14
F.5 Services used globally ........................................................................................ 14

Rec. ITU-T E.212 (06/2024) iii

 Page
F.6 Networks ............................................................................................................. 15
Annex G Assignment of shared ITU-T E.212 mobile country codes (MCC) for trials ............ 16
G.1 Introduction .................................................................................................... 16
G.2 Scope ................................................................................................................... 16
G.3 General ................................................................................................................ 16
G.4 Criteria for the temporary assignment of a trial MCC+Trial-MNC ................. 16
G.5 Procedures for temporary assignment................................................................ 17
Annex H Criteria and procedures for the assignment and reclamation of shared ITU-T
E.212 mobile country codes (MCC) for regional and other international
organizations (ROIO)/standards development organization (SDO)-specified.............. 19
H.1 Introduction .................................................................................................... 19
H.2 Scope ................................................................................................................... 19
H.3 Principles for assignment ................................................................................... 19
H.4 Criteria for assignment ....................................................................................... 19
H.5 Assignment ..................................................................................................... 21
H.6 Voluntary return of unused MNCs ..................................................................... 21
H.7 Criteria for reclamation....................................................................................... 22
H.8 Reclamation .................................................................................................... 22
H.9 Reconsideration process .................................................................................................... 22
Appendix I Form A: Notification of the use of an MCC/MNC extra-territorially .................... 24
Appendix II Form B: Notification of the cancellation of use of an MCC/MNC extra-
territorially ......................................................................................................................... 25
Appendix III Shared ITU-T E.212 mobile country code (MCC) 999 for internal use
within a private network ............................................................................................... 26
III.1 Introduction .................................................................................................... 26
III.2 Principles ............................................................................................................. 26
Bibliography............................................................................................................................. 27

iv Rec. ITU-T E.212 (06/2024)

Recommendation ITU-T E.212

The international identification plan for public networks and subscriptions

1 Scope
This Recommendation describes a unique and unambiguous identification plan for subscriptions and
the format of the international mobile subscription identity (IMSI). It establishes procedures for the
assignment of fields of the IMSI in a manner that prevents duplication.

2 References
The following ITU-T Recommendations and other references contain provisions which, through
reference in this text, constitute provisions of this Recommendation. At the time of publication, the
editions indicated were valid. All Recommendations and other references are subject to revision;
users of this Recommendation are therefore encouraged to investigate the possibility of applying the
most recent edition of the Recommendations and other references listed below. A list of the currently
valid ITU-T Recommendations is regularly published. The reference to a document within this
Recommendation does not give it, as a stand-alone document, the status of a Recommendation.
[ITU-T E.101] Recommendation ITU-T E.101 (2009), Definitions of terms used for identifiers
(names, numbers, addresses and other identifiers) for public
telecommunication services and networks in the E-series Recommendations.
[ITU-T E.164] Recommendation ITU-T E.164 (2010), The international public
telecommunication numbering plan.
[ITU-T E.164.1] Recommendation ITU-T E.164.1 (2008), Criteria and procedures for the
reservation, assignment and reclamation of E.164 country codes and
associated identification codes (ICs).
[ITU-T E.190] Recommendation ITU-T E.190 (1997), Principles and responsibilities for the
management, assignment and reclamation of E-series international numbering
resources.

3 Definitions
Whenever the term "country", "destination country" or "originating country" is used in this
Recommendation, it identifies a specific country, a group of countries in an integrated numbering
plan or a specific geographical area.
The terms "operator" and "national numbering plan administrator" are defined in [ITU-T E.101]. This
Recommendation defines the following terms:
3.1 home network: The network responsible for the subscription identified by the elements
within the IMSI.
3.2 international mobile subscription identity (IMSI): The IMSI is a string of decimal digits,
up to a maximum length of 15 digits, which identifies a unique subscription. The IMSI consists of
three fields: the mobile country code (MCC), the mobile network code (MNC), and the mobile
subscription identification number (MSIN).
3.3 mobile country code (MCC): The MCC is the first field of the IMSI, is three digits in length
and identifies a country. The Director of TSB may assign more than one MCC to a country. MCCs
in the 90x range are non-geographic MCCs (country-agnostic) and are administered by the Director
of TSB.

Rec. ITU-T E.212 (06/2024) 1

3.4 mobile network code (MNC): The MNC is the second field of the IMSI, is two or three
digits in length and is administered by the respective national NPA. MNCs under MCC ranges 90x
are administered by the Director of TSB. The MNC, in combination with the MCC, provides sufficient
information to identify the home network.
3.5 mobile subscription identification number (MSIN): The MSIN is the third field of the
IMSI, is up to 10 digits in length and is administered by the relevant MNC assignee to identify
individual subscriptions.

4 Abbreviations and acronyms

This Recommendation uses the following abbreviations and acronyms:
FN Future Network
GSM-R Global System for Mobile communications – Railway
IMSI International Mobile Subscription Identity
MCC Mobile Country Code
MNC Mobile Network Code
MSIN Mobile Subscription Identification Number
NGN Next Generation Network
NPA Numbering Plan Administrator
PLMN Public Land Mobile Network
PSTN Public Switched Telephone Network
ROIO Regional and Other International Organizations
SDO Standards Development Organization
SIM Subscriber Identity Module
TIES Telecommunication Information Exchange Service
TSB Telecommunication Standardization Bureau
UICC Universal Integrated Circuit Card
USIM Universal Subscriber Identity Module

5 Considerations
The considerations that form the basis for this international identification plan for networks and
subscriptions are as follows:
a) The assignment of E.212 resources is in conformance with the principles in [ITU-T E.190].
b) There may be more than one public network offering such services in a country.
c) The MNC consists of 2 or 3 digits and the length of the MNC is a national matter.
d) The number of digits of the MSINs is determined by the relevant MNC assignee in
accordance with the national policy.
e) The IMSI shall not exceed 15 digits in length.
f) For 90x MCCs, the length of MNCs is determined by the Director of the Telecommunication
Standardization Bureau (TSB) and the length of the MSINs is determined by the relevant
MNC assignee in accordance with the relevant ITU-T Recommendations.

2 Rec. ITU-T E.212 (06/2024)

g) The IMSI assigned to a subscription under this identification plan should not be directly
related to numbers assigned to that same subscription under "The international public
telecommunications numbering plan" [ITU-T E.164].
h) The IMSI should, if necessary, enable:
1) determination of the home network;
2) identification of subscriptions, when information about a specific subscription is
exchanged between networks;
3) identification of subscriptions for charging and billing purposes;
4) identification and management of subscription, e.g., for registering, authenticating,
signalling, retrieving, providing, changing and updating of subscription data.
i) The IMSI is not intended to be used for dialling purposes. This list is not exhaustive.

6 IMSI structure, format and assignment procedures

6.1 Structure and format of the IMSI

The IMSI structure and format are as shown in Figure 1.

Figure 1 – Structure and format of the IMSI

6.2 IMSI assignment procedures

6.2.1 The Director of TSB assigns MCCs in accordance with Annexes A, C and H.
6.2.2 MNCs associated with geographical MCCs are administered by the national NPA within each
country in accordance with the principle in Annex B.
6.2.3 MSINs are administered by the relevant MNC assignee in accordance with relevant national
legal and regulatory environments or ITU-T Recommendations.
6.2.4 In principle, only one IMSI should be assigned to each subscription, although multiple
subscriptions may be associated with a SIM/USIM/UICC/embedded SIM card.

Rec. ITU-T E.212 (06/2024) 3

 Annex A

Criteria and procedures for the assignment and reclamation of shared ITU-T
E.212 mobile country codes (MCC) for networks and their respective mobile
network codes (MNCs)
(This annex forms an integral part of this Recommendation.)

A.1 Introduction
The Director of TSB assigns and reclaims E.212 mobile country codes (MCCs) for countries and
shared MCCs for networks according to this Recommendation. The Director of TSB is also
responsible for the assignment and reclamation of mobile network codes (MNCs) for shared MCCs
for networks. Mobile subscription identification numbers (MSINs) are administered by the MNC
assignee.

A.2 Scope
This annex describes the procedures and criteria to be utilized by the Director of TSB for the
assignment and reclamation of mobile network codes (MNCs) associated with shared MCCs for
networks.

A.3 Principles for assignment

A.3.1 In accordance with this Recommendation, the shared MCC resources assigned to networks
shall consist of a 3-digit shared MCC for networks followed by a 2- or 3-digit MNC.
A.3.2 For a specific shared MCC for networks, the length of all MNCs within that MCC shall be
the same.
A.3.3 Both the shared MCC(s) for networks, and the specific MNC(s) associated with a shared
MCC for networks, will be assigned by the Director of TSB.
A.3.4 Subsequent shared MCCs for networks and/or MNCs that are part of shared MCCs for
networks can be assigned by the Director of TSB in the event of exhaustion or another substantiated
reason.

A.4 Criteria for assignment

Throughout the following clauses, when using the term "applicant", it is assumed that the applicant
is either an operator or is a group of operators. However, it should be noted that many national NPAs
require that applicants correspond with ITU-TSB only via that national NPA. It should also be
recognized that it may be a national NPA presenting an application on behalf of an applicant rather
than the applicant making a direct approach to the Director of TSB.
A.4.1 The applicant must be a Member State or a Sector Member of the ITU or an Associate
Member of the relevant ITU-T Study Group and must maintain its membership as long as it has
reserved or is assigned the requested resource. If annual membership fees are not paid by the initial
payment due date1 the resources will be reclaimed.
A.4.2 The Director of TSB receives a written request from an applicant for assignment.
A.4.3 The applicant requesting the numbering resource must affirm that it has overall
responsibility, or contract with the entity that has overall responsibility, for the management,
operation and maintenance of the network that will utilize the requested resource.

1 At the time of publication, the initial due date for payment of ITU membership fees is 31 March each year.

4 Rec. ITU-T E.212 (06/2024)

A.4.4 It is a national matter whether requests for codes require national NPA review or approval.
The applicant shall certify that it has met all of its country's national, legal and/or regulatory
requirements for submission of the application.
A.4.5 The applicant must also affirm that all national, regulatory, and legal requirements of the
countries in which the applicant's network will operate and provide service are met at the time of
network implementation.
A.4.6 If an applicant has been granted a shared E.164 country code resource per [ITU-T E.164.1]
for the network cited in the application, it can be assumed that it has fulfilled the following criteria
for assignment (see clauses A.4.1, A.4.3 and A.4.7). The applicant must certify that it continues to
meet these criteria. However, if the application is for a network that is not associated with a shared
E.164 country code resource, all of the criteria must be addressed.
A.4.7 The applicant must demonstrate that the international network infrastructure it intends to use
will contain connecting physical nodes in two or more countries. In the case of satellite terminals,
serving mobile terminals in two or more countries will satisfy this requirement.
A.4.8 The applicant is required to state the planned date of commercial implementation in at least
two countries, or in geographical areas in two different countries.
A.4.9 The applicant will affirm that the requested resources will be used for offering public
telecommunication services between two or more countries within a maximum of 1 year from the
date of assignment.
A.4.10 The applicant must demonstrate that the use of a MNC under a shared MCC for networks is
an appropriate, efficient and effective method to identify terminals or users of the network for routing,
addressing and billing purposes. The applicant must attach substantiating documentation justifying
this fact. The applicant will affirm that it complies with interworking requirements among public
networks.
A.4.11 The applicant must demonstrate that other reasonable technical and operational alternatives
(e.g., use of national resources) are not appropriate. The applicant must attach substantiating
documentation justifying this fact.
A.4.12 The applicant may apply for a subsequent MNC under the following circumstances:
• The current assignment is approaching exhaustion.
• The applicant can demonstrate that the resource will be utilized by a distinct shared network.
Such a request will be treated as a new application.
• Other substantiated reasons with proper justification.
A.4.13 Additional assignments of MNCs will be based on confirmation that the existing resource is
being used in an efficient manner (e.g., that the format and length of the numbering plan is
appropriate). The applicant must provide substantiated information that the resource is approaching
exhaustion. The terms and conditions of the original assignment must be met.
A.4.14 The applicant will annually certify that the resource which has been assigned to it continues
to be in operation and will also reaffirm its prime contact details through the submission of a status
notification to the Director of TSB.

A.5 Assignment
A.5.1 Requests for the assignment of a shared MCC+MNC to a network will be addressed in
writing to the Director of TSB. The written request should be submitted on official company
letterhead and signed by an appropriate company representative. The signature of the appropriate
company representative affirms that, in the applicant's view, all the criteria are met. This written
request shall include:

Rec. ITU-T E.212 (06/2024) 5

a) A planned code activation date in order to determine the relevant urgency of the request;
b) Sufficient information so that the request can be analysed to satisfy the criteria given in
clause A.4 (e.g., provide evidence that criteria will be complied with by the activation date,
planned network architecture and call flows);
c) Evidence of payment of any applicable fee.
A.5.2 In making decisions, the Director of TSB consults with the appropriate ITU-T Study Group,
if necessary.
A.5.3 Provided the criteria in clause A.4 are met, an applicant's request for assignment of a MNC
under a shared MCC for networks will be granted by the Director of TSB and, if necessary, with
consultation of the relevant ITU-T Study Group.
A.5.4 Within a given shared MCC for networks, applicants will receive MNCs in sequential order.
A.5.5 After the assignment has been made, the Director of TSB will respond in writing to the
applicant and include appropriate information for their ongoing responsibility as contained in this
Recommendation and [ITU-T E.190]. In addition, the assignment will be published in the appropriate
media (e.g., the ITU Website (TIES) and in the Operational Bulletin).
A.5.6 An assignment can be requested for non-commercial trials or testing purposes for a period of
up to two years. The code subsequently assigned can be used only for non-commercial trial and testing
purposes.

A.6 Voluntary return of unused MNCs

A.6.1 If an applicant or assignee determines that a MNC assigned to its network is no longer
required, the Director of TSB shall be notified of that fact in writing.
A.6.2 The Director of TSB will respond in writing to the applicant acknowledging the return of the
MNC.
A.6.3 The Director of TSB is to publish the date of the return of the MNC in the appropriate media
(e.g., ITU website (TIES) and in the Operational Bulletin).
A.6.4 The returned MNC(s) should not be reassigned for a period of 2 years.
A.6.5 At the end of the ageing two-year period, the Director of TSB will return a code to spare status.

A.7 Criteria for reclamation

A.7.1 The assigned MNC is subject to reclamation if any of the following occurs:
• the assigned MNC is not implemented;
• the network no longer satisfies the assignment criteria;
• the network is not operational between at least two countries;
• the MNC is not in use for a period of 2 years; or
• annual membership fees are not paid by the initial payment due date.

A.8 Reclamation
A.8.1 If a shared MCC+MNC for networks meets the reclamation criteria provided in clause A.7.1,
the Director of TSB will notify the assignee in writing that the code is subject to reclamation.
A.8.2 At the time of reclamation of an assigned MNC code under a shared MCC for networks, the
Director of TSB shall publish the date of MNC reclamation via the appropriate media (e.g., ITU
website (TIES), and in the Operational Bulletin).
A.8.3 The returned MNCs should not be reassigned for a period of 2 years from the date of
reclamation.

6 Rec. ITU-T E.212 (06/2024)

A.8.4 At the end of the two-year period, the Director of TSB will return a code to spare status.
A.8.5 A code is to be reclaimed if the applicant has not certified on an annual basis that the code is
being used in accordance with the reservation or assignment request or has not also provided the
applicant's prime contact details and an affirmation that the applicant is a Member State, a Sector
Member or an Associate Member of the relevant ITU-T Study Group which has paid its membership
fees by the initial payment due date.

A.9 Reconsideration process

An applicant for a MNC associated with a shared MCC for networks who has been denied an
assignment can request a reconsideration of the denial to the Director of TSB in the following manner.
The reconsideration could include a presentation by the applicant to the relevant ITU-T Study Group.
A.9.1 In response to a letter of denial from the Director of TSB, the applicant can submit a
supplement to its original application that responds to the reason(s) for denial contained in the letter.
The applicant should submit its request for reconsideration, in writing, to the Director of TSB. In
order to be considered by the Director of TSB, the response must include new or clarifying
information. The submission should present the position of the applicant regarding the application
and its denial, including its justification for this reconsideration. The applicant must attach to the
submission a copy of the original application, the supplement to it, and the letter of denial from the
Director of TSB. The applicant may also present the reconsideration at the Study Group meeting. If
the reconsideration is to be presented to the relevant ITU-T Study Group, it should be submitted at
least two months prior to the ITU-T Study Group meeting.
A.9.2 The Director of TSB will consult with the relevant ITU-T Study Group and/or its delegated
representatives. The relevant ITU-T Study Group and/or its delegated representatives will then
provide advice to the Director of TSB regarding the amended application and the contents of the
submitted supplement to the original application.
A.9.3 If the Director of TSB determines that, based on the new information, the reservation or
assignment should be made, the applicant will be so informed per the procedures in clause A.5.5.
A.9.4 If the Director of TSB determines that the application is still to be denied after proper
consultation with the concerned Study Group, the applicant will be so informed and the reason(s) for
the denial will be provided.

Rec. ITU-T E.212 (06/2024) 7

 Annex B

Principles for the assignment of mobile network codes (MNCs) within

geographical MCCs
(This annex forms an integral part of this Recommendation.)
1) MNCs under geographical MCCs are administered by the respective national numbering plan
administrator who has responsibility for specifying criteria for assignment, conditions of use
and procedures for reclamation at the national level in accordance with this Recommendation.
2) The applicant must demonstrate a need for the resource and must further demonstrate that
other reasonable technical and operational alternatives (e.g., use of already assigned MNCs,
use of national allocated or assigned shared MNCs, use of embedded SIM) are not
appropriate. The applicant must attach substantiating documentation justifying this fact.
3) As required, applicants for MNCs must comply with applicable standards and national
regulations relative to the provisioning of public telecommunication services. The applicant
will affirm that it complies with interworking requirements among public networks.
4) MNCs are to be assigned to permit the most effective and efficient use of a finite resource in
order to defer, as long as practical, the need to request additional MCC resources. For
networks and services to be provided in more than one country, excluding mobile roaming
services, an applicant for an MNC under a geographical MCC should be encouraged to apply
to the ITU for the assignment of an MNC under a shared MCC (Annex A) to avoid the need
for multiple assignments of MNCs under different geographical MCCs.
5) A country's national numbering plan administrator may assign one MNC within an MCC
assigned to that country by the Director of TSB to the applicant if the applicant demonstrates
compliance with the criteria established by the administrator including the respective right to
apply for an MNC. The administrator may assign additional MNCs if the applicant meets the
criteria for additional assignments established by the national numbering plan administrator,
e.g., testing, national roaming, another mobile system.
6) MNCs are to be assigned to applicants and used by assignees for public networks offering
public telecommunication services. In addition, MNCs may be assigned to other applicants
(e.g., for GSM-R networks) and these assignments are to be made according to procedure and
criteria established by the national numbering plan administrator.
7) The assignment of MNCs to small geographical areas within a country is not recommended
because it is not an efficient or effective use of the MNC resource.
8) MSINs are to be assigned by the MNC assignee to their subscribed users. A user may have
multiple IMSIs.
9) IMSIs are a public resource. The assignment of any portion of an IMSI (i.e., MNC, MSIN)
does not imply ownership of the resource by either the entity to which it is assigned or by the
national numbering plan administrator.
10) Should an assignee transfer control of all or a portion of its business using its assigned MNC
under an existing arrangement, then the use of the assigned MNC may be transferable by the
national numbering plan administrator.
11) The national numbering plan administrator should:
a) Assign MNCs in a fair, timely and impartial manner to any applicant that meets the
criteria for assignment.
b) Assign MNCs on a first-come, first-served basis from the available pool of unassigned
MNCs.

8 Rec. ITU-T E.212 (06/2024)

 c) Make all assignments based on the procedures and criteria as detailed in the assignment
guidelines/conventions/regulations/laws.
d) Notify the Director of TSB of the assignment of an MNC within 90 days, using the MNC
notification form available on the ITU website.
12) MNC reclamation principles:
a) The national numbering plan administrator may reclaim the resource if any of the
principles or criteria for assignment is no longer fulfilled.
b) An MNC resource that is reclaimed may be available for assignment within a specified
period of time. The MNC may be reassigned, if feasible, if a limited number of MSINs
have been assigned by the former operator. Duplicate MSINs within a reassigned MNC
should not be permitted.
c) Notify the Director of TSB of the withdrawal of an MNC within 90 days, using the MNC
notification form available on the ITU website.

Rec. ITU-T E.212 (06/2024) 9

 Annex C

Procedures for the assignment of an additional MCC to a country

(This annex forms an integral part of this Recommendation.)
1) A national numbering plan administrator may request the assignment of an additional mobile
country code (MCC) in writing to the Director of TSB.
2) A national numbering plan administrator may apply for a subsequent MCC when an existing
MCC is approaching exhaustion. Exhaustion is defined as having less than 20% of the MNC
resource available within an MCC, and the administrator should notify the Director of TSB.
When a country has less than 30% of the MNC resource available, the national numbering
plan administrator is encouraged to provide information about its present usage and
assignments of MNCs to the Director of TSB.
3) The national numbering plan administrator must provide substantiated information that this
resource is approaching exhaustion.
4) An additional assignment will be based on confirmation that the existing resource is being
used in an efficient and effective manner.
5) The written request should be submitted and signed by the national numbering plan
administrator. This written request should include a planned date of implementation so that
the ITU Operational Bulletin can be updated accordingly.
6) At the time of application, an Administration may also request the reservation of up to one
additional MCC for future use. This reservation should be on an exception basis and the
Administration should provide compelling evidence for the need for such a reservation. The
evidence should demonstrate why the additional assigned MCC is not sufficient to address
the emerging need for ITU-T E.212 resources.
7) These procedures may be updated depending on the future needs and requirements of national
numbering plan administrators, the telecommunications industry and the availability of
unassigned ITU-T E.212 MCC resources.
8) National numbering plan administrators can notify the Director of TSB of MNC assignments
using the form published on http://www.itu.int/ITU- T/inr/forms/mnc.html.

10 Rec. ITU-T E.212 (06/2024)

 Annex D

Use of mobile subscription identification number (MSIN)

(This annex forms an integral part of this Recommendation.)

As a general practice, the initial or leading digits of the MSIN may be used to provide for example:
• operational efficiencies;
• internal numbering planning;
• regulatory compliance;
• hardware and software accommodation;
• sharing the MNC resource among providers;
• identification of HLRs, HSSs, etc;
• identification of geographical areas.

Rec. ITU-T E.212 (06/2024) 11

 Annex E

The use of an MCC+MNC in a country other than the country to which the
MCC has been assigned by the Director of TSB
(This annex forms an integral part of this Recommendation.)

E.1 Introduction
Extraterritorial use of an MCC+MNC is the term used to describe the situation where an MCC+MNC
that has been assigned to an operator in one country, Country A, is used in another country, Country
B, through a base station established in Country B. Extraterritorial use does not include situations
where a subscriber in one country receives services from a base station in another country, nor does
it address roaming issues.
The extraterritorial use of an MCC+MNC:
• should not negatively impact services being provided by any other operators,
• is on an exceptional basis and is subject to this annex,
• is not intended to include situations where a subscriber in one country receives service from
a base station located in another country (e.g., cross-border coverage leakage), or roaming,
• must comply with all national regulations of each of the Administrations.
The operator using an MCC+MNC extra-territorially must provide unique and unambiguous
information to its roaming partners in order to allow them to identify the location of their subscribers.
The extraterritorial use of an MCC+MNC should be communicated to the international community
by those Administrations which have permitted such usage.

E.2 Procedure to be followed for implementation of the extraterritorial use of an

MCC+MNC
In the event that an operator wishes to implement the extraterritorial use of an MCC+MNC, it will
seek the approval of the Administrations of both Country A and Country B.
The operator will apply to each of the Administrations, providing the information required by these
Administrations. It is suggested that the Administrations should obtain from the operator the
information they will need to complete Form A (see Appendix I), in addition to any other
documentation required.
The Administrations should confer together on the extraterritorial use of the MCC+MNC. On
reaching a decision, they should notify the operator that applied for extraterritorial use of the
MCC+MNC, and all other PLMNs operating in either or both of Country A and Country B,
accordingly.
In the event that both of the Administrations agree that an operator can use the MCC+MNC
extra-territorially, then each of the Administrations will advise the Director of TSB of the following:
• the MCC+MNC that is to be used extra-territorially;
• the countries where an MCC+MNC is being used extra-territorially;
• the name of the operator(s) that are using an MCC+MNC extra-territorially;
• the MSIN range used by the operator in each country.
It is expected that normal roaming practices, tariffing and other country identification mechanisms of
Country B, will be followed.
Each of the Administrations will notify the Director of TSB of the extraterritorial use of an
MCC+MNC by completing Form A.

12 Rec. ITU-T E.212 (06/2024)

The Director of TSB shall publish the extraterritorial use via the appropriate media (e.g.,
ITU website, Operational Bulletin).

E.3 Voluntary return of an MNC

If an operator determines that the part of an MCC+MNC resource being used extraterritorially is no
longer required, then the operator will notify the National Administration of the MCC (Country A)
of that fact in writing.
The National Administration of the MCC will respond in writing to the applicant acknowledging the
return of that part of the MCC+MNC and, in turn, notify the Director of TSB and all PLMNs operating
in either Country A or Country B, or in both.
The Director of TSB is to publish the date of the return of the part of the MCC+MNC for
extraterritorial use in the appropriate media (e.g., ITU website (TIES), and in the Operational
Bulletin).

E.4 Criteria for cancellation of extraterritorial use

The assigned part of the MCC+MNC is subject to cancellation by either the National Administration
of Country A or of Country B if, for example, any of the following occurs:
• The assigned part of the MCC+MNC is not implemented;
• The network no longer satisfies the assignment criteria;
• The network is not operational; or
• The assigned part of the MCC+MNC is not in use for a period of two years.

E.5 Cancellation procedures

The operator will cease to use that portion of the MCC+MNC for extraterritorial use upon the request
of either Country A or Country B. If either country initiates the cancellation, then it should formally
notify the other country of this request. Upon notification, the countries should collaborate to cancel
the authorization that has been issued to the operator for the extraterritorial use.
Upon agreement, both countries will notify the Director of TSB by completing Form B (see
Appendix II). They should also notify all PLMNs operating in either Country A or Country B, or in
both.
The Director of TSB shall publish the date of cancellation of the extraterritorial use via the appropriate
media (e.g., ITU website (TIES), and in the Operational Bulletin).

Rec. ITU-T E.212 (06/2024) 13

 Annex F

Illustration of uses of ITU-T E.212 resources

(This annex forms an integral part of this Recommendation.)

F.1 Introduction
The purpose of this annex is to illustrate some of the uses of the identification resources described
and defined in this Recommendation. The identification plan was originally devised for use by the
national cellular radio systems known as public land mobile networks (PLMNs). The identification
resources are essential to the operation of cellular radio systems. The identification resources are also
essential for fixed and global networks (e.g., global satellite networks, maritime, aeronautical) to
provide innovative services (e.g., nomadic service, messaging service, authentication, presence),
above all in next-generation networks (NGNs) and for other future networks (FNs).
Maintaining and extending the use of a unique and unambiguous international identification plan
allows the identification of resources to be used within national networks, between networks in the
same country and between networks in different countries to facilitate access to international
communication services and their applications.

F.2 Mobile networks (PLMN)

The use of the ITU-T E.212 identification resources and its associated component parts permit the
identification at country, network and user levels. The resource identifies the subscription and billing
relationships.

F.3 Fixed networks (PSTN)

The use of the ITU-T E.212 identification resource in the fixed network facilitates:
• aspects of personal mobility whereby a user may move between compatible terminals and
retain its subscribed access to service;
• the authentication and verification of a user request for service which may be used on the
basis of manual entry or automated reading device;
• fixed networks emulating applications of the cellular mobile networks such as SMS or TEXT
messaging;
• interaction between users of fixed and mobile networks.

F.4 Satellite and non-terrestrial networks

The initial requirements were for global mobile-satellite systems, but these have been expanded to
cover regional satellite systems and other non-terrestrial networks. An MCC (i.e., 901) is allocated
and assignment of MNCs are made by the Director of TSB and this resource is shared on the basis of
MNCs being assigned to successful applicants. For the international telephone service, this shared
identification resource can be associated with the corresponding ITU-T E.164 Country Code plus
Identification Code (CC + IC).

F.5 Services used globally

The ITU-T E.212 identification resource may be used by services in more than one country by the
network which has been assigned the International shared ITU-T E.212 resources in accordance with
the assignment criteria. The applicant should affirm:
a) that the identification resource will be used to support global services that are based on well
recognized and implemented international standards;
b) the relevant international standards on which the service is based;

14 Rec. ITU-T E.212 (06/2024)

c) a description of the proposed service;
d) acceptance that any infringement of the reservation and assignment criteria and directly
related ITU-T Recommendations, by any third party which the applicant through a contract
subsequently subassigns part of the assigned resource to, may result in the total assigned
resource being reclaimed.

F.6 Networks
Networks in this clause are defined in [ITU-T E.164]. The ITU-T E.212 identification resource may
be used in support of the service offered by the applicant.

Rec. ITU-T E.212 (06/2024) 15

 Annex G

Assignment of shared ITU-T E.212 mobile country codes (MCC) for trials
(This annex forms an integral part of this Recommendation.)

G.1 Introduction
ITU-T has determined that a shared ITU-T E.212 mobile country code (i.e., MCC 991) is allocated
to enable the conduct of trials of new international telecommunication service. Furthermore, it has
been determined that two-digit mobile network codes (MNC) for trials (trial-MNC) will be
temporarily assigned to successful applicants for the duration of their specified trial activity. This
annex defines the use and limitations of such a resource as well as the criteria and procedures for the
temporary assignment and reclamation of trial-MNCs.

G.2 Scope
This annex contains the criteria and procedures for an applicant to be temporarily assigned a two-
digit MNC within the shared ITU-T E.212 MCC 991 for the purpose of conducting an international
non-commercial trial. The purpose of the trial will be to determine the viability of a proposed new
international telecommunication service.

G.3 General
A trial is the temporary implementation of a proposed new international service implemented in more
than one country for the purpose of determining its technical, operational and business viability.
In a non-commercial trial, the service provided in the trial is accessible to a limited set of users, the
purpose of the trial is not for commercial offerings, and there may be a charge to the users.
G.3.1 The format of the ITU-T E.212 resources to be assigned for the purpose of an international
trial is:
MCC Trial-MNC where:
MCC = Shared ITU-T E.212 mobile country code 991.
Trial-MNC = 2-digit trial mobile network code, in the format XX, where X = 0 to 9.
G.3.2 Mobile country code 991 has been allocated the mobile shared country code for this purpose.
Successful resource applicants will be assigned a 2-digit trial-MNC following the shared MCC 991
for its use during the trial period.
G.3.3 The temporary resource assignment will be for a one-year period from the start date of the
trial. Prior to the end of the one-year trial period, the applicant may request an extension in writing to
ITU Telecommunication Standardization Bureau (TSB) and be automatically granted a one-year
extension. At the end of the trial the MCC+Trial-MNC combination shall be reclaimed by ITU TSB
for reassignment.
G.3.4 The ITU TSB may reclaim an assigned MCC+Trial-MNC, prior to completion of the trial, if
it is determined that any of the assignment criteria in the following clause are not being adhered to
by the resource assignee.

G.4 Criteria for the temporary assignment of a trial MCC+Trial-MNC

Throughout clauses G.4.1 to G.5.7, when using the term "applicant", it is assumed that the applicant
is either an operator or a group of operators. However, it should be noted that many national
numbering plan administrators require that any such applicant correspond with the ITU TSB only via
that national numbering plan administrator. It should be recognized that it may be a national

16 Rec. ITU-T E.212 (06/2024)

numbering plan administrator presenting an application on behalf of an applicant rather than the
applicant making a direct approach to the Director of TSB.
G.4.1 The applicant must be a Member State or a Sector Member of the ITU or an Associate
Member of the relevant ITU-T Study Group and must maintain its membership as long as it has
reserved or is assigned the requested resource. If annual membership fees are not paid by the initial
payment due date the resources will be reclaimed.
G.4.2 The Director of TSB receives a written request from an applicant for assignment.
G.4.3 The applicant requesting the numbering resource must affirm that it has overall responsibility
for the management, operation and maintenance of the network that will utilize the requested resource.
G.4.4 It is a national matter whether requests for codes require national numbering plan
administrator review or approval. The applicant shall certify that it has met all of its country's national,
legal and/or regulatory requirements for submission of the application.
G.4.5 The applicant must also affirm that all national, regulatory, and legal requirements of the
countries in which the applicant's network will operate and provide service are met at the time of
network implementation.
G.4.6 If an applicant has been granted a trial E.164 resource according to [ITU-T E.164.2] for the
network cited in the application, it can be assumed that it has fulfilled the following criteria for
assignment: G.4.1, G.4.3 and G.4.7. The applicant must certify that it continues to meet these criteria.
However, if the application is for a network that is not associated with a shared E.164 country code
resource, all of the criteria must be addressed.
G.4.7 The applicant must demonstrate that its international network infrastructure will contain
connecting physical nodes in two or more countries. In the case of satellite terminals, serving mobile
terminals in two or more countries will satisfy this requirement.
G.4.8 Assignment and use of a trial-MNC does not prejudge in any way a possible future
assignment in accordance with the provisions of Annex A of this Recommendation (i.e.,
ITU-T E.212).
G.4.9 The MCC+ Trial-MNC will be used to test a proposed new international service.
G.4.10 The MCC+Trial-MNC will be assigned for a non-commercial international trial between two
or more countries that do not belong to the same integrated numbering plan.
G.4.11 The applicant will discontinue the use of the MCC+Trial-MNC and will return it to TSB at
the end of the temporary assignment period.
G.4.12 The applicant and the entities participating in the trial will not promote the trial-MNC per se
but they may promote the service subject to the trial.
G.4.13 The applicant must provide a description of the service/capability to be tested during the trial.
This information will be treated as proprietary by TSB.
G.4.14 The applicant must provide the proposed start date for the trial. The trial start date must be
within six months of the application date.
G.4.15 The applicant shall identify all service providers to participate in the trial.

G.5 Procedures for temporary assignment

G.5.1 The resource applicant will submit a written application affirming that it conforms to each of
the assignment criteria contained in clause G.4.
G.5.2 ITU TSB will review the application for criteria compliance and provide a written response
to the applicant within 10 business days indicating the results of the application or the request for
additional information.

Rec. ITU-T E.212 (06/2024) 17

G.5.3 If the resource is assigned, the written response will contain the specific resource assigned
and a reiteration of the conditions under which it is assigned, including the specific reclamation date,
in accordance with this Recommendation. The assigned resource will be the next available resource
in sequence – no request for a specific trial-MNC will be accommodated.
G.5.4 If the resource is denied, a written explanation will be provided.
G.5.4.1 ITU TSB will afford the applicant an opportunity to submit a revised application that
addresses the deficiencies contained in the denial correspondence.
G.5.4.2 If the applicant feels that the denial is unjustified, it may appeal the denial to the appropriate
ITU-T Study Group (the study group that maintains this Recommendation) for consideration.
G.5.5 Prior to the end of the initial one-year trial period, the applicant may request, in writing to
the ITU TSB, and be automatically granted a one-year extension of the assignment. The request need
not contain a reason for the extension, but the extension must be for the same trial for which the
temporary resource was originally assigned.
G.5.6 At the end of the trial period (either one or two years from initial assignment, depending on
whether an extension was granted), the ITU TSB will reclaim the assigned resource and will inform
the assignee in writing of the imminent reclamation two months in advance of the reclamation. No
action is required by assignee other than the termination of the use of the resource.
G.5.7 A reclaimed MCC+Trial-MNC may be reassigned after a 12-month idle period. At the end
of the idle period, the reclaimed MCC+ Trial-MNC will become the next resource in sequence for
assignment. The reclaimed resource, or any other MCC+Trial-MNC, may not be assigned or
reassigned to the previous assignee (or trial co-participants) for the continuing/additional trial of the
same service for which it was previously assigned.

18 Rec. ITU-T E.212 (06/2024)

 Annex H

Criteria and procedures for the assignment and reclamation of shared ITU-T
E.212 mobile country codes (MCC) for regional and other international
organizations (ROIO)/standards development organization (SDO)-specified
networks and their respective mobile network codes (MNCs)
(This annex forms an integral part of this Recommendation.)

H.1 Introduction
The Director of TSB assigns and reclaims E.212 shared mobile country codes (MCCs) for regional
and other international organizations (ROIO)/standard development organization (SDO)-specified
networks for specific use cases according to this Recommendation. The Director of TSB is also
responsible for the assignment and reclamation of mobile network codes (MNCs) for shared MCCs
for ROIO/SDO-specified networks for specific use cases.

H.2 Scope
This annex describes the procedures and criteria to be utilized by the Director of TSB for the
assignment and reclamation of MNCs associated with shared MCCs for ROIO/SDO-specified
networks for specific use cases.
H.2.1 For the purposes of this annex, a regional or other international organization (ROIO) is an
organization already admitted to participate in the work of the ITU pursuant to No. 231 of the ITU
Convention and that has not been exempted from payment of membership fees.
H.2.2 For the purposes of this annex, an SDO is an entity that is recognized or accredited by a
Member State as a national standards organization and that has not been exempted from payment of
membership fees.
H.2.3 For the purposes of this annex, an ROIO/SDO-specified network for specific use cases is a
network that can be implemented for that use case on the basis of a technical standard or specification
developed and approved by the ROIO or the SDO.

H.3 Principles for assignment

H.3.1 In accordance with this Recommendation, the shared MCC resources assigned to
ROIO/SDO-specified networks for specific use cases shall consist of a 3-digit shared MCC for
ROIO/SDO-specified networks for specific use cases followed by a 2- or 3-digit MNC.
H.3.2 For a specific shared MCC for ROIO/SDO-specified networks for specific use cases, the
length of all MNCs within that MCC shall be the same.
H.3.3 Both the shared MCC(s) for ROIO/SDO-specified networks for specific use cases, and the
specific MNC(s) associated with a shared MCC for ROIO/SDO-specified networks for specific use
cases, will be assigned by the Director of TSB.
H.3.4 Subsequent shared MCCs for ROIO/SDO-specified networks for specific use cases and/or
MNCs that are part of shared MCCs for ROIO/SDO-specified networks for specific use cases can be
assigned by the Director of TSB in the event of exhaustion or another substantiated reason.

H.4 Criteria for assignment

Throughout the following clauses, when using the term "applicant", it is assumed that the applicant
is an ROIO or an SDO.
H.4.1 The applicant must be an ROIO or an SDO that is either a Sector Member or an Associate of
the relevant ITU-T Study Group and it must maintain that status as long as it is assigned the requested

Rec. ITU-T E.212 (06/2024) 19

resource. If annual membership fees are not paid by the initial payment due date, the resources will
be reclaimed.
H.4.2 The Director of TSB receives a written request from an applicant for assignment. If the
applicant is an ROIO that has not been exempted from payment of membership fee it must so state.
If the application in an SDO, it must include a letter from an Administration certifying that it is an
SDO.
H.4.3 If the requested resources will be used in networks that are based on technical standards or
specifications developed by another ROIO/SDO, the applicant shall affirm and provide evidence that
there exists mutual consent between the applicant and the other ROIO/SDO regarding the usage of
the requested resources for the ROIO/SDO-specified networks.
H.4.4 The applicant requesting the numbering resource shall affirm and provide evidence regarding
how and who will have overall responsibility for the management, operation, and maintenance of the
network/networks that will utilize the requested resource for specific use cases. The applicant shall
also affirm and provide evidence regarding the relationship between the applicant and the entity
identified to have overall responsibility and how it will exercise control over the utilizing networks
with respect to the use of the requested E.212 resource. The applicant shall provide substantiated
justifying information to the effect that it has overall control of the requested resource.
H.4.5 The applicant shall also affirm that the application for resources is being made on behalf of
all its members and shall provide substantiated information showing that the application is formally
endorsed by its members, in accordance with its decision-making process.
H.4.6 The applicant shall provide substantiated information to demonstrate that the resource can be
used by all its members.
H.4.7 It is a national matter whether requests for codes require national numbering plan
administrator review or approval. The applicant shall affirm that it has met all its country's national,
legal and/or regulatory requirements for submission of the application. If approval of the national
numbering plan administrator is needed in its Member State, the applicant shall also provide evidence
regarding the approval.
H.4.8 The applicant shall also affirm that all national, regulatory, and legal requirements of the
countries in which the network/networks will operate and provide service are met at the time of
network implementation.
H.4.9 The applicant shall demonstrate that the intended network infrastructure of its members will
contain physical nodes in two or more countries. In the case of satellite terminals, serving mobile
terminals in two or more countries will satisfy this requirement.
H.4.10 The applicant shall state the planned date of implementation by its members in at least two
countries, or in geographical areas in two different countries.
H.4.11 The applicant shall affirm that the requested resources will be used by its members, who will
use those numbers as specified by the ROIO/SDO in two or more countries within a maximum of one
year from the date of assignment.
H.4.12 The applicant shall demonstrate that the use of an MNC under a shared MCC for ROIO/SDO-
specified networks for specific use cases is an appropriate, efficient and effective use of requested
E.212 resources. The applicant shall attach substantiated information justifying this fact.
H.4.13 The applicant shall affirm that it complies with interworking requirements among public
networks, if applicable.
H.4.14 The applicant shall demonstrate that other reasonable technical and operational alternatives
(e.g., use of shared or national resources) are not appropriate. The applicant shall attach substantiated
information justifying this fact.

20 Rec. ITU-T E.212 (06/2024)

H.4.15 The applicant may apply for a subsequent MNC under the following circumstances; such
requests will be treated as a new application:
• the applicant can demonstrate that the resource will be utilized for a distinct use case;
• other substantiated reasons with proper justification.
H.4.16 The applicant may apply for a subsequent assignment if the current assignment is
approaching exhaustion. Such a request shall be made in writing to the Director of TSB. Subsequent
assignments of MNCs will be based on confirmation that the existing resource is being used in an
efficient manner (e.g., that the format and length of the numbering plan is appropriate and describes
the reuse of resources). The applicant shall provide substantiated information that the resource is
approaching exhaustion. The terms and conditions of the original assignment must be met.
H.4.17 The applicant shall annually affirm that the resource which has been assigned to it continues
to be in operation and shall also reaffirm its prime contact details through the submission of a status
notification to the Director of TSB.
H.4.18 For a possible reclamation of the requested E.212 resource, the applicant shall affirm how it
is able to ensure that use of the reclaimed E.212 resource is stopped as soon as possible and no later
than two years from the date of reclamation.

H.5 Assignment
H.5.1 Requests for the assignment of a shared MCC+MNC to an ROIO/SDO-specified for specific
use cases network shall be addressed in writing to the Director of TSB. The written request should be
submitted on official ROIO/SDO letterhead and signed by an appropriate ROIO/SDO representative.
The signature of the appropriate company representative affirms that, in the applicant's view, all the
criteria are met. This written request shall include:
a) A planned code activation date in order to determine the relevant urgency of the request;
b) Sufficient information so that the request can be analysed to satisfy the criteria given in
clause H.4 (e.g., provide evidence that criteria will be complied with by the activation date,
planned network architecture and call flows);
c) Evidence of payment of any applicable fee.
H.5.2 In making decisions, the Director of TSB consults with the appropriate ITU-T Study Group,
if necessary.
H.5.3 Provided the criteria in clause H.4 are met, an applicant's request for assignment of a MNC
under a shared MCC for networks will be granted by the Director of TSB and, if necessary, with
consultation of the relevant ITU-T Study Group.
H.5.4 Within a given shared MCC for ROIO/SDO-specified networks for specific use cases,
applicants will receive MNCs in sequential order.
H.5.5 After the assignment has been made, the Director of TSB will respond in writing to the
applicant and include appropriate information for their ongoing responsibility as contained in this
Recommendation and [ITU-T E.190]. In addition, the assignment will be published in the appropriate
media (e.g., the ITU Website (TIES) and in the Operational Bulletin).
H.5.6 An assignment can be requested for non-commercial trials or testing purposes for a period of
up to two years. The code subsequently assigned can be used only for non-commercial trial and testing
purposes.

H.6 Voluntary return of unused MNCs

H.6.1 If an applicant or assignee determines that a MNC assigned to its use case is no longer
required, the Director of TSB shall be notified of that fact in writing.

Rec. ITU-T E.212 (06/2024) 21

H.6.2 The Director of TSB will respond in writing to the applicant acknowledging the return of the
MNC.
H.6.3 The Director of TSB is to publish the date of the return of the MNC in the appropriate media
(e.g., ITU website (TIES) and in the Operational Bulletin).
H.6.4 The returned MNC(s) should not be reassigned for a period of two years.
H.6.5 At the end of the ageing two-year period, the Director of TSB will return a code to spare status.

H.7 Criteria for reclamation

H.7.1 The assigned MNC is subject to reclamation if any of the following occurs:
• the assigned MNC is not implemented;
• the ROIO/SDO-specified network for specific use cases no longer satisfies the assignment
criteria;
• the assigned resource is not operational at least in two countries;
• the MNC is not in use for a period of two years; or
• annual membership fees are not paid by the initial payment due date.

H.8 Reclamation
H.8.1 If a shared MCC+MNC for ROIO/SDO-specified networks for specific use cases meets the
reclamation criteria provided in clause H.7.1, the Director of TSB will notify the assignee in writing
that the code is subject to reclamation.
H.8.2 At the time of reclamation of an assigned MNC code under a shared MCC for ROIO/SDO-
specified networks for specific use cases, the Director of TSB shall publish the date of MNC
reclamation via the appropriate media (e.g., ITU website (TIES), and in the Operational Bulletin).
H.8.3 The returned MNCs should not be reassigned for a period of two years from the date of
reclamation.
H.8.4 At the end of the two-year period, the Director of TSB will return a code to spare status.
H.8.5 A code is to be reclaimed if the applicant has not certified on an annual basis that the code is
being used in accordance with the assignment request or has not also provided the applicant's prime
contact details and an affirmation that the applicant is an ROIO or an SDO that is either a Sector
Member or an Associate of the relevant ITU-T Study Group.

H.9 Reconsideration process

An applicant for a MNC associated with a shared MCC for ROIO/SDO-specified networks for
specific use cases who has been denied an assignment can request a reconsideration of the denial to
the Director of TSB in the following manner. The reconsideration could include a presentation by the
applicant to the relevant ITU-T Study Group.
H.9.1 In response to a letter of denial from the Director of TSB, the applicant can submit a
supplement to its original application that responds to the reason(s) for denial contained in the letter.
The applicant should submit its request for reconsideration, in writing, to the Director of TSB. In
order to be considered by the Director of TSB, the response must include new or clarifying
information. The submission should present the position of the applicant regarding the application
and its denial, including its justification for this reconsideration. The applicant must attach to the
submission a copy of the original application, the supplement to it and the letter of denial from the
Director of TSB. The applicant may also present the reconsideration at the Study Group meeting. If
the reconsideration is to be presented to the relevant ITU-T Study Group, it should be submitted at
least two months prior to the ITU-T Study Group meeting.

22 Rec. ITU-T E.212 (06/2024)

H.9.2 The Director of TSB will consult with the relevant ITU-T Study Group. The relevant ITU-T
Study Group will then provide advice to the Director of TSB regarding the amended application and
the contents of the submitted supplement to the original application.
H.9.3 If the Director of TSB determines that, based on the new information, the reservation or
assignment should be made, the applicant will be so informed as per the procedures in clause H.5.5.
H.9.4 If the Director of TSB determines that the application is still to be denied after proper
consultation with the concerned Study Group, the applicant will be so informed and the reason(s) for
the denial will be provided.

Rec. ITU-T E.212 (06/2024) 23

 Appendix I

Form A: Notification of the use of an MCC/MNC extra-territorially

(This appendix does not form an integral part of this Recommendation.)

To be returned to the Director of TSB Fax No.: +41 22 730 5853 or E-mail: tsbtson@itu.int
This form should be used by each of the Administrations to notify the Director of TSB that the
Administration has agreed that an operator can use an MCC+MNC of Country A in Country B.
MCC/MNC:
Administration Contact-Person Name:
Address:
Telephone: Fax: Email:

MCC/MNC Operator(s) name Country B – Where the MSIN range to be MSIN range to be
MCC/MNC is to be used in Country A used in Country B
used extra-territorially

24 Rec. ITU-T E.212 (06/2024)

 Appendix II

Form B: Notification of the cancellation of use of an MCC/MNC extra-

territorially
(This appendix does not form an integral part of this Recommendation.)

To be returned to the Director of TSB Fax No.: +41 22 730 5853 or E-mail: tsbtson@itu.int
This form should be used by each of the Administrations to notify the Director of TSB that the
Administration has agreed that an operator can cancel the use of an MCC+MNC of Country A in
Country B.
MCC/MNC:
Administration Contact-Person Name:
Address:
Telephone: Fax: Email:

MCC/MNC Operator(s) name Country B – Where the MSIN range used in MSIN range used
MCC/MNC is used Country A in Country B
extra-territorially

Rec. ITU-T E.212 (06/2024) 25

 Appendix III

Shared ITU-T E.212 mobile country code (MCC) 999 for internal use within a
private network
(This appendix does not form an integral part of this Recommendation.)

III.1 Introduction
This appendix clarifies the principles associated with the shared ITU-T E.212 mobile country code
(MCC) 999 for internal use within a private network.

III.2 Principles
III.2.1 The ITU-T E.212 MCC 999 is allocated for internal use within a private network.
III.2.2 Mobile network codes (MNCs) under this MCC are not subject to assignment and therefore
may not be globally unique. No interaction with ITU is required for using a MNC value under this
MCC for internal use within a private network.
III.2.3 Any MNC value under this MCC used in a network has significance only within that network.
The MNCs under this MCC are not routable between networks. The MNCs under this MCC shall not
be used for roaming.
III.2.4 For the purposes of testing and examples using this MCC, it is encouraged to use MNC value
99 or 999.
III.2.5 MNCs under this MCC cannot be used outside of the network for which they apply.
III.2.6 MNCs under this MCC may be 2- or 3-digit.

26 Rec. ITU-T E.212 (06/2024)

 Bibliography

[b-ITU-T D.93] Recommendation ITU-T D.93 (2009), Charging and accounting in the
international land mobile telephone service (provided via cellular radio
systems).
[b-ITU-T Q.1001] Recommendation ITU-T Q.1001 (1988), (Extract from the Blue Book),
General aspects of public land mobile networks.

Rec. ITU-T E.212 (06/2024) 27

 SERIES OF ITU-T RECOMMENDATIONS

Series A Organization of the work of ITU-T

Series D Tariff and accounting principles and international telecommunication/ICT economic and policy issues

Series E Overall network operation, telephone service, service operation and human factors

Series F Non-telephone telecommunication services

Series G Transmission systems and media, digital systems and networks

Series H Audiovisual and multimedia systems

Series I Integrated services digital network

Series J Cable networks and transmission of television, sound programme and other multimedia signals

Series K Protection against interference

Environment and ICTs, climate change, e-waste, energy efficiency; construction, installation and
Series L
protection of cables and other elements of outside plant

Series M Telecommunication management, including TMN and network maintenance

Series N Maintenance: international sound programme and television transmission circuits

Series O Specifications of measuring equipment

Series P Telephone transmission quality, telephone installations, local line networks

Series Q Switching and signalling, and associated measurements and tests

Series R Telegraph transmission

Series S Telegraph services terminal equipment

Series T Terminals for telematic services

Series U Telegraph switching

Series V Data communication over the telephone network

Series X Data networks, open system communications and security

Global information infrastructure, Internet protocol aspects, next-generation networks, Internet of

Series Y
Things and smart cities

Series Z Languages and general software aspects for telecommunication systems

Published in Switzerland
Geneva, 2024