About .church domain
.church is a generic top-level domain (gTLD) operated by Donuts (through Holly Fields, LLC). It was delegated to the root zone in May 2014 after Donuts succeeded in a private auction against another applicant. The registry agreement was signed with ICANN in February 2014, and the extension entered general availability later that year. It operates as an open, commercial domain product with no special content or use restrictions imposed by the registry.
Who can register .church domain
Registration for a .church domain is open to anyone globally; there are no eligibility restrictions based on geography, religious affiliation, or organizational status. No verification or special documentation is required to register. This open policy allows individuals, businesses, religious groups, and communities worldwide to secure a .church domain name.
How to register .church domain
- Search for your desired .church name using a domain registrar's search tool to check real-time availability. Consider checking variations that might include keywords like "community" or "fellowship" if your first choice is taken.
- Compare pricing, registration term options (typically 1-10 years), and add-on services like WHOIS privacy or email hosting across several ICANN-accredited registrars that offer .church domains.
- Complete the checkout process, providing accurate registrant contact details and selecting your desired registration period. WHOIS privacy is commonly available and can be added at this stage.
- After purchase, verify your contact email to activate the domain, then configure DNS settings through your registrar's control panel to point the domain to your website or hosting service.
Typical uses of .church domain
The .church extension is most commonly used by religious organizations, congregations, and faith-based communities to establish a clear and relevant online presence. Churches, ministries, and religious nonprofits choose this TLD to immediately communicate their purpose and to secure a memorable web address that aligns with their identity. It is also used by businesses serving the religious sector, such as suppliers or media companies. The TLD offers a direct alternative to more generic extensions like .com or .org for entities focused on religious activities.
Tips for registering .church domain
- Domains can typically be registered for a minimum of one year, with maximum terms often extending up to ten years.
- WHOIS privacy protection is generally available for .church domains through most registrars, allowing you to shield personal contact information from public view.
- The registry operates a Sunrise Period and Trademark Claims service to protect trademark holders, following ICANN's standard policies for new gTLDs.
- Standard ICANN transfer policies apply, but a 60-day transfer lock is typically enforced after registration or a registrant change.