Hi Adriana Bienati,
This is a common point of confusion when setting up verification methods. If the Italian country code (0039 or +39) appears to be missing from the dropdown list to receive your verification number, here are a few ways to bypass this issue and gain access:
- Search by Country Name, Not Number
Many Microsoft verification forms sort the dropdown list alphabetically by the country's name rather than numerically by the dial code. Instead of looking for "0039", try typing "Italy" (or "Italia", depending on your browser's language settings) directly into the box, or scroll to the "I" section of the list to find it.
- Check the Portal URL ("MY" Region)
You mentioned being directed to the "Microsoft MY portal". Sometimes, users are accidentally sent to a region-specific portal. For example, "MY" is the official internet country code for Malaysia. If the webpage URL has "en-my" in it, the form might be restricted to local Asian numbers. Try navigating directly to the global portal at https://www.google.com/search?q=myaccount.microsoft.com or https://www.google.com/search?q=mysignins.microsoft.com to ensure you are seeing the global list of country codes.
- Use an Alternative Verification Method
If the SMS option is still not showing your country code, you can completely bypass the phone number requirement. On the setup screen, look for an option that says "I want to set up a different method" or "Show more options". From there, you can choose the Microsoft Authenticator app. This app uses a Wi-Fi or data connection to verify your identity, so it doesn't require a phone number or SMS code at all.
I hope this helps you get logged in! If this answers your question, please consider marking it as Accept Answer.
Tracy Le.