ISO 3166:1988
ISO · 1988-08

Codes for the representation of namens of countries

Replaced Cited by 34

1Key Takeaways

This document establishes a standardized system for the representation of national names through concise alphabetic codes. It defines two primary formats: a two-character code for countries and major geographical territories, and a three-character code for the same entities. These alphanumeric identifiers are design…

2Scope / Description

This document establishes a standardized system for the representation of national names through concise alphabetic codes. It defines two primary formats: a two-character code for countries and major geographical territories, and a three-character code for the same entities. These alphanumeric identifiers are designed to facilitate international data processing, communication, and record-keeping by providing a consistent method to reference specific nations. The framework covers sovereign states as well as dependent territories, ensuring clarity in global transactions where language barriers might otherwise cause confusion. By assigning unique identifiers to each jurisdiction, the system supports efficient sorting, indexing, and retrieval of information across various digital platforms and administrative databases. This approach eliminates ambiguity inherent in full name variations and spelling differences, allowing seamless integration of national data in international contexts. The codes serve as a foundational element for broader geographical and logistical systems, enabling organizations to standardize country representation in forms, labels, and digital interfaces without relying on local naming conventions or lengthy descriptions.

3Version History

ISO 3166:1974 older 1974-01-01
ISO 3166:1981 older 1981-05-01
ISO 3166:1988 1988-08
ISO 3166:1993 newer 1993-12

6Frequently Asked Questions

What is ISO 3166:1988?
ISO 3166:1988 — Codes for the representation of namens of countries is an international standard developed by International Organization for Standardization (ISO). This document establishes a standardized system for the representation of national names through concise alphabetic codes. It defines two primary formats: a two-character code for countries and major geographical territories, and a three-character...
What does ISO 3166:1988 cover?
This standard covers: This document establishes a standardized system for the representation of national names through concise alphabetic codes. It defines two primary formats: a two-character code for countries and major geographical territories, and a three-character code for the same entities. These alphanumeric...
Who should use this standard?
This standard is intended for organizations, professionals, and stakeholders involved in various industries and sectors. It is applicable to manufacturers, service providers, regulatory bodies, and certification organizations.
What is the latest version of ISO 3166:1988?
The current published version is ISO 3166:1988, published on 1988-08. Always check for amendments or pending revisions.
How do I purchase ISO 3166:1988?
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