Online forms, shipping labels and banking apps often ask for a “country code”. Sometimes they want +92, sometimes PK, sometimes PAK, and sometimes PKR. These are different standards for different jobs. This guide explains ISO country codes and how they compare with calling and currency codes, using our Country & Area Code Finder.
The three ISO country codes
The ISO 3166 standard gives each country:
| Type | Pakistan | UAE | United Kingdom |
|---|---|---|---|
| Alpha-2 | PK | AE | GB |
| Alpha-3 | PAK | ARE | GBR |
| Numeric | 586 | 784 | 826 |
Note that the UK’s ISO code is GB, not UK.
Where each is used
- Alpha-2 (PK): country fields in forms, website domains (.pk), shipping systems, payment platforms.
- Alpha-3 (PAK): passports (machine-readable zone), sports and international organisations.
- Numeric: some banking and statistical systems.
Calling codes are different
Telephone codes such as +92 come from the ITU, not ISO. They are for phone numbers only.
Currency codes are different too
Currency codes like PKR, AED and USD come from ISO 4217. The first two letters usually match the country’s alpha-2 code, and the third letter refers to the currency. Convert currencies with the Currency Converter.
Shipping and e-commerce
Courier systems and customs forms usually ask for the alpha-2 code. Our Shipping Label Generator uses country names, but international courier portals typically show a dropdown of ISO codes. Getting it wrong can delay a parcel.
Website domains
Country-code domains like .pk, .ae and .uk are based on ISO alpha-2 codes, with a few historical exceptions such as .uk for the United Kingdom.
Quick tips
- Forms asking for “Country code” next to a phone field want the calling code.
- Forms asking for “Country” in an address usually want the alpha-2 code or name.
- Passports use alpha-3.
For phone formats, read how to dial international numbers.
Frequently asked questions
What is the ISO code for Pakistan?
PK (alpha-2), PAK (alpha-3) and 586 (numeric).
Is the UK’s code UK or GB?
The ISO code is GB, though the website domain is .uk.
Is +92 an ISO code?
No. +92 is a telephone calling code from the ITU.