When Should You Get an ISSN? Timing, Lifecycle, and Best Practices

Timing matters with ISSNs. Asking "When should I get an ISSN?" is common among new publishers, editors, and institutions launching serials. The right time to apply, and understanding the events that trigger a new or changed ISSN, helps ensure smooth cataloguing, indexing, and subscription processes. This article walks a beginner through the lifecycle of an ISSN: when to request one, when changes require a new ISSN, and practical best practices.

When to request an ISSN: at launch or before public release

The ideal time to request an ISSN is when you are ready to publish the serial—preferably before the first issue or first online release. Applying early means the ISSN can appear in the masthead, on the website, and within metadata, which helps libraries, aggregators, and indexing services identify the title from day one. Early assignment also simplifies subscription setup and legal deposit processes.

Applying during planning and pre-launch stages

If you are in planning stages (selecting titles, frequency, formats), it’s still fine to apply for an ISSN. Some national centres allow applications before the first issue is produced, as long as you can provide title information, intended frequency, publisher contact, and preview content or a sample layout. Having the ISSN ready at launch is a practical advantage.

ISSNs for multiple formats

If your serial will appear in both print and electronic formats, request separate ISSNs for each medium before release. This prevents confusion later when platforms and libraries need to distinguish between versions. If you plan a website or online edition that will be available immediately, request the eISSN in tandem with or before launch.

When to request an ISSN-L

ISSN-L is usually provided as part of the ISSN record to link different media versions. When you request ISSNs for multiple formats, the linking ISSN (ISSN-L) will typically be assigned or designated to connect these records.

When does a title change require a new ISSN?

Major title changes usually require a new ISSN. If the serial’s title is altered significantly (not a minor subtitle tweak), it is treated as a new title and should receive a new ISSN. This helps maintain accurate cataloguing and historical records. Minor variations, such as punctuation changes or minor subtitle edits, generally do not trigger a new ISSN.

When do new ISSNs apply for mergers, splits, or continuations?

• Mergers: If two serials merge into a single new title, that new title should receive its own ISSN.
• Splits: If a serial splits into separate titles, each new continuation requires its own ISSN.
• Changes in medium: If a serial moves from print-only to online-only and the versions are considered separate manifestations, an electronic ISSN should be assigned (in addition to the existing print ISSN), not replaced.

When is an ISSN not required or not appropriate?

One-off publications, standalone reports, or single monographs do not typically get ISSNs. These are usually identified with ISBNs or internal identifiers. Websites that are not intended as continuing serials also may not qualify for an ISSN.

What about supplements, special issues, or conference series?

Supplements and special issues typically use the parent serial’s ISSN unless they are formally issued as a separate continuing title. Conference proceedings published as a series with an ongoing editorial pattern can qualify for an ISSN; if they are part of an established serial, they may use the parent title’s ISSN.

Renewal and lifecycle management

ISSNs themselves do not expire, but records should be kept up-to-date. If a serial ceases publication, national centres update the ISSN record with cessation information. If a title is resumed after a long interruption, the existing ISSN may still apply if the title and editorial continuity are preserved, but centres should be consulted to confirm.

Practical checklist: when to act

1. Before first issue or launch: apply for ISSNs for all planned formats.
2. When changing the medium (print to online or vice versa): apply for additional ISSNs as needed.
3. When changing the title significantly: request a new ISSN for the new title.
4. When merging or splitting serials: contact the ISSN centre to determine new assignments.

How to apply

Contact your national or regional ISSN centre (many provide online forms). Provide accurate title, frequency, publisher, intended format, and a sample issue or URL. The centre verifies the serial’s status and issues the ISSN, which will be entered into the international ISSN Register.

Summary and friendly tip

Apply early—ideally before your first issue is public. Keep your ISSN records updated when significant editorial or format changes occur, and always consult your national ISSN centre if you’re unsure whether a change requires a new ISSN. Early and correct ISSN management saves time and prevents cataloguing headaches down the line.