Phone number formats for verification: +, country codes and the leading zero
In short
- The usual format is a + and the country code, then the number without its leading 0: 07700 900123 becomes +44 7700 900123.
- If the app has a separate country box, pick the country there and type the rest without the country code.
- A typo or a doubled country code is one of the commonest reasons a code never arrives.
Apps send codes to exactly what you type. A missing plus, a doubled country code or a stray zero sends it nowhere.
The international format
Start with + and the country code, then the number without the leading 0 you’d dial at home. A UK mobile, 07700 900123, becomes +44 7700 900123. Viber asks for exactly this: country code, then the area code without its leading zeros, then the number. Autodesk also says to drop the leading zero.
Apps with a country box
Many apps have a separate country menu. Kakao says to choose the country there, then type the number without the country code, so it isn’t added twice. TikTok’s help suggests, if a code doesn’t come, trying the number with its leading 0 and no country code.
Spaces and symbols
Vinted wants a + and the country code with no spaces, such as +447700900123. When in doubt, leave out spaces, brackets and dashes.
Copy, don’t retype
If you’re using a one-time number from ReserveSMS, use Copy number on the order page and paste it into the app. If the app has a country box, choose the country shown on the order and paste the rest.
Common questions
Do I include the 0 at the start of my number?
Not with a country code. 07700 900123 in the UK becomes +44 7700 900123.
The app has a country menu. Do I type the country code too?
Usually not. Choose the country in the menu and type the rest without the country code, as Kakao advises.
Should I type spaces in the number?
Leave them out if you can. Vinted, for example, wants a + and the country code with no spaces.