What is a UK 03 (or 033) number ?

03 numbers are UK national non-geographic numbers often called 'UK-wide' numbers. Calling an 03 in the UK must cost no more than a national rate call. From outside the UK calling normally costs the same as calling a geographic number.

03 numbers are divided into four categories (they all cost the same to call)

  • 030 - For qualifying public bodies and non-profit organisations as defined by Ofcom
  • 033 - For any user
  • 034 - Reserved for migration from 08 range
  • 037 - Reserved for migration from 08 range

03 numbers were introduced to remove some of the confusion around the UK 08 NTS range. 03 regulations state that calls to 03 numbers must cost no more than a national rate call (ie. to an 01 or 02 number) and furthermore any calls to 03 must be bundled with any inclusive minutes (in the same way as 01 and 02 calls).

Additionally revenue sharing (providing the called party with a percentage of the call revenue) is forbidden.

Also see: