Abstract: The present invention relates to a signaling method and network element for a virtual private network, wherein a destination capability is determined in response to the receipt of a connection request from a subscriber belonging to the virtual private network. Based on the determination result, an initiation of a virtual private network signaling in the call set-up is decided. Thereby, the signaling load can be reduced already in the originating point if the destination is not able to support the signaling required for the virtual private network. The capability determination may be based on a private numbering plan required for a number translation in the telecommunication network.