Introduction to ISBN and ISSN

ISBN (International Standard Book Number) refers to international standard numbers for non-serial publications. ISSN (International Standard Serial Number) refers to international standard numbers for serial publications.

The presence of these two numbers means the publication has been registered with the international ISBN or ISSN organization, and the publication has met international standards. The background information on the publication can be obtained by checking the numbers, thus reinforcing the confidence of readers in the publisher.

Application of ISBN

Applicable Range of ISBN:

10 book numbers can be acquired for one ISBN application. They are applicable to books, brochures, micro-copies, educational TV programmes or movies, mixed-media publications, microcomputer software, maps and electronic publications.

Documents required for an ISBN Application:

1. Copies of the Business Registration Certificate of an approved registered Hong Kong publisher and copies of the applicant's identity card or passport;
2. Valid address in Hong Kong;
3. Five to seven copies of the book must be submitted to the relevant authorities for filing and registration after it is published.

Timescale required for an ISBN application :

Approximately 7 working days.

Application of ISSN

Applicable range of ISSN:

One international standard serial number can be acquired with one ISSN application, applicable to newspapers and magazines.

Documents required for an ISSN Application:

1. Copies of the applicant's identity card or passport, and business registration certificates are required for corporate applicants;
2. Front and back covers, as well as the contents page of the publication to be printed;
3. Three to four copies of the publication must be submitted to the relevant authorities for filing after it is published.

Timescale required for an ISSN application:

Approximately 18 working days.