European telecommunications numbering space (ETNS)

The ETNS number (European Telecommunications Numbering Space) is a telephone number for Europe defined by the International Telecommunication Union( ITU) in 2000. The international numbering system is valid worldwide with the +388 numbering range and offers the numbering space for Europe with the ETNS and the +388-3 numbering range.

The ETNS number is not a separate area code, such as +49 as the country code for Germany, but is a number that is valid throughout Europe.

Structure of the European Numbering Space (ETNS)

The advantage of such a numbering system lies in the simple international number portability and the transparency in the forwarding of calls within Europe.

Structure of the ETNS number

In addition to the +388 and the "3" for Europe, the complete ETNS numbering scheme includes the service identifier as a fifth number. In total, there are four services: for public institutions, customer service, corporate networks and personal numbers.

Structure of the ETNS number

The ETNS number is completed by up to nine additional digits for the European subscriber number. ETNS numbers are relatively little used and are not adequately supported by several national operators.