How to get a number
There are two paths to obtaining a phone number on the Infobip platform:
- Buy a new number from Infobip
- Import a number you already own from another provider
Both paths give you a fully functional number for SMS, MMS, Voice, or WhatsApp. The right choice depends on whether you already own numbers and need to migrate them.
| Scenario | Best path |
|---|---|
| You need a new number quickly | Buy new (VLN available within 1-3 days) |
| You own numbers at another provider | Import (keep the same number) |
| You are consolidating providers | Import (no number change for your customers) |
| You want dedicated numbers with full Infobip support | Buy new |
Buy a new number
Purchase numbers directly from Infobip. Numbers are owned by Infobip and leased to you. This path provides immediate availability after purchase, full setup support, and works for all number types (VLN, 10DLC, short code, toll-free).
You can buy numbers through:
- Web interface: Go to Channels and numbers > Numbers > My numbers and select Buy number. See Request resources through the web interface for the full flow.
- Numbers API: Use this API when you need to browse, search, or select specific numbers before purchase.
- Resource Request API: Use this API when you want a simpler request flow and do not need to choose a specific number in advance.
For approval timelines and the 6-phase workflow that applies to some number types (10DLC, short code, toll-free), see Resource request procedure.
Import an existing number
Import phone numbers you already own from another provider. When importing, you must provide proof of ownership through a Letter of Authority (LOA). The import process requires documentation and involves a longer approval timeline than buying new numbers.
For the full step-by-step guide, including portal walkthrough, USA-specific requirements, timelines, and zero-downtime migration best practices, see Import numbers.
Non-USA imports
Import requirements vary by country and carrier. Before starting, review:
- SMS coverage and connectivity for country-specific import rules and timelines
- Compliance guidelines for regulatory requirements by location
USA imports
All USA number imports require proof of ownership and brand and campaign registration before traffic can be enabled:
10DLC imports
Requires proof of ownership and brand/campaign registration.
Short code imports
Requires CSCA Lease Receipt, migration documentation, and brand/campaign registration.
Toll-free imports
Requires proof of ownership, brand/campaign registration, and TFN verification.
Coverage and availability
Number availability and two-way communication capabilities depend on country regulations and carrier requirements. Some countries support only specific number types (for example, short codes only), while others support VLNs or a combination.
- SMS coverage and connectivity: country-by-country number type availability, timelines, and carrier rules
- Compliance guidelines: regulatory requirements by country and region
- For account-specific coverage and pricing, contact your account manager or Support
Import numbers
Step-by-step guide to importing existing numbers, including portal walkthrough and zero-downtime migration tips.
Resource request procedure
The 6-phase approval workflow for number requests.
Manage resources
Configure inbound routing and channel settings after obtaining your number.