About .cu domain
.cu is a country code top-level domain (ccTLD) delegated for Cuba. The registry operator is CUBANIC, managed by CENIAInternet (CITMATEL). It was delegated in June 1992. Registration is structured, allowing for both second-level names and third-level names under specific second-level categories.
Who can register .cu domain
Registration is restricted to entities and individuals with a presence in Cuba. Cuban legal entities can apply for names under .cu or the generic second-level domains .edu.cu, .gob.cu, .org.cu, .inf.cu, .net.cu, and .com.cu. Foreign legal entities may only apply under .cu or .com.cu. Natural persons residing in the country can register under the .nat.cu subdomain.
How to register .cu domain
- Verify your eligibility as a Cuban resident, a legal entity in Cuba, or a foreign legal entity permitted to register under specific second-level domains.
- Prepare the required documentation, which may include proof of a trademark from the Cuban Office of Industrial Property (OCPI) or documentation matching your legal entity's name.
- Submit your application through the official CUBANIC registry, ensuring the proposed domain name complies with character, length, and content restrictions.
- Await approval from the registry, as domain names are granted based on compliance with the established legal and naming rules.
Typical uses of .cu domain
The .cu extension is primarily used by entities connected with Cuba. It is very popular within the country for establishing a local online presence. Common users include government bodies under .gob.cu, educational institutions under .edu.cu, commercial enterprises under .com.cu, and non-profit organizations under .org.cu. Individuals residing in Cuba use .nat.cu for personal sites, while specialized sectors like tourism and culture utilize dedicated subdomains like .tur.cu and .cult.cu.
Tips for registering .cu domain
- Domain names must be between 3 and 63 characters long, though a minimum of 5 characters is recommended by the registry.
- Names are subject to content restrictions and cannot include generic terms, geographic names, or expressions deemed harmful to national security or morals.
- Valid characters include letters a-z, digits 0-9, hyphens, and specific Spanish accented letters (á, é, í, ó, ú, ü, ñ).
- A domain will not be granted if it matches common Internet terminology, protocols, or existing TLD names.
Frequently asked questions about .cu domain
How much does it cost to register and renew a .cu domain?
As of today, .cu domains start from $1,320.00/yr on NameBeta, with prices ranging up to $1,433.68/yr across 2 registrars. See the registrar comparison table on this page for live prices.Which registrars support .cu domains?
NameBeta tracks 2 registrars that support .cu domain registration, with the cheapest option at $1,320.00/yr. Full list on this page.Who operates .cu domain?
The registry for .cu domains is CENIAInternet.
Who can register a .cu domain?
Registration is limited to Cuban legal entities, foreign legal entities, and natural persons residing in Cuba. Cuban entities can apply under several second-level domains like .com.cu and .org.cu, while foreign entities are typically restricted to .cu or .com.cu. Individuals must use the .nat.cu subdomain and may need to provide trademark documentation or other justification for their requested name.
Can I transfer a .cu domain between registrars?
Inter-registrar transfer policies for .cu domains are governed by the CUBANIC registry. The process typically requires the registrant to confirm their eligibility and authorization for the transfer. It is advisable to contact the registry or your current registrar directly to understand the specific steps, required documentation, and any potential lock periods that may apply before initiating a transfer.
What naming rules apply to a .cu domain?
Domain names must adhere to strict character and content rules. They can include Spanish letters, digits, hyphens, and specific accented characters. Names cannot begin or end with a hyphen or contain two consecutive hyphens. Furthermore, applications for names consisting of generic terms, geographic names, or terms deemed detrimental to public security and national sovereignty will be rejected by the registry.
Can I register a .cu domain if I have a trademark?
Yes, possessing a trademark granted by the Cuban Office of Industrial Property (OCPI) is a valid basis for a domain application for both legal entities and individuals. The domain name must constitute the trademark itself. This is one of the primary ways to secure a name that might otherwise be rejected under the rules prohibiting generic or personal names.
What are the different second-level domains under .cu used for?
The registry maintains specific second-level domains for different sectors. For example, .gob.cu is for government bodies, .edu.cu for educational institutions, and .com.cu for commercial entities. .org.cu is for non-governmental and non-profit organizations, .inf.cu for scientific information providers, and .nat.cu is reserved for natural persons residing in Cuba. Each has defined eligibility criteria.
How are disputes over .cu domain names handled?
The source material indicates there is no formal dispute policy like UDRP specifically mentioned for the .cu namespace. Disputes are likely handled according to the registry's own regulations and Cuban law. Given the strict eligibility and naming rules, many potential conflicts are preemptively managed during the application review process conducted by CUBANIC.
