About .cv domain
The .cv domain is a country code top-level domain (ccTLD) delegated to Cape Verde. It is managed by the Agência Reguladora Multissectorial da Economia (ARME) and was introduced in 1996. The TLD is positioned as a global product, having been relaunched in 2024 with a new marketing strategy and a fully automated registration system available through international registrars. It is part of the LusNIC group, sharing some technical infrastructure with other Portuguese-speaking ccTLDs.
Who can register .cv domain
Registration for .cv domains is open globally to both individuals and companies, with no geographic restrictions. There are no specific verification or documentation requirements for standard second-level registrations like .cv or .com.cv. However, certain third-level domains like .gov.cv, .org.cv, and .edu.cv are reserved for specific entity types, such as government bodies, non-profit organizations, and educational institutions, which must meet the corresponding eligibility criteria.
How to register .cv domain
- Search for your desired .cv domain name on any accredited registrar's website to check its availability, noting that names must be between 2 and 63 characters and can include specific accented characters.
- Compare pricing, registration terms, and available add-ons like WHOIS privacy from different registrars that offer the .cv extension.
- Complete the checkout process, providing accurate contact information and selecting your desired registration period.
- Finalize the registration by verifying your contact details and configuring your domain's DNS settings to point to your web hosting or email service.
Typical uses of .cv domain
The .cv extension is commonly used for personal websites, particularly for hosting online curricula vitae or résumés, leveraging the "cv" abbreviation. It also sees use within Cape Verde by local businesses, organizations, and individuals for general web presence. The TLD's global availability and memorable abbreviation make it a popular choice for professionals and creatives seeking a distinctive personal domain, alongside its traditional use for entities connected to the country.
Tips for registering .cv domain
- The minimum registration term is typically one year, with renewal pricing set by individual registrars.
- WHOIS privacy services are generally available for .cv domains, but their offering depends on the specific registrar's policies.
- Domain names cannot be registered if they contain obscene language, infringe on protected trademarks, or correspond to certain geographical names without proper authority.
- The registry supports a range of accented characters (à, â, ã, ç, é, ê, í, ó, ô, õ, ú) and hyphens in domain names, with specific formatting rules.
Frequently asked questions about .cv domain
How much does it cost to register and renew a .cv domain?
As of today, .cv domains start from $7.98/yr on NameBeta, with prices ranging up to $115.00/yr across 10 registrars. See the registrar comparison table on this page for live prices.Which registrars support .cv domains?
NameBeta tracks 10 registrars that support .cv domain registration, with the cheapest option at $7.98/yr. Full list on this page.Who operates .cv domain?
The registry for .cv domains is OlaCV, administered by Agência Reguladora Multissectorial da Economia (ARME).
Who can register a .cv domain?
Anyone worldwide can register a standard .cv domain, as there are no citizenship or residency requirements. For specific third-level domains like .gov.cv or .edu.cv, you must be the corresponding type of entity, such as a government office or an accredited educational institution. The registration process for these restricted subdomains involves coordination with the relevant managing authority.
Can I transfer a .cv domain between registrars?
Transferring a .cv domain between accredited registrars follows standard inter-registrar transfer procedures, typically requiring an authorization code from the current registrar. The domain must be unlocked and not within a prohibited transfer period, such as the first 60 days after registration. It is advisable to confirm the specific transfer policies and any associated fees with both your current and gaining registrar before initiating the process.
What characters are allowed in a .cv domain name?
Domain names under .cv can consist of letters a-z, numbers 0-9, and specific accented characters: à, â, ã, ç, é, ê, í, ó, ô, õ, and ú. The hyphen is permitted as a separator but cannot be used at the start or end of the name. Names must be between 2 and 63 characters in length, and names beginning with "xn" have additional restrictions on hyphen placement.
Are there any content restrictions for .cv websites?
While the registry's rules primarily govern the domain name itself, registrations are prohibited for names that clearly correspond to obscene language or expressions contrary to law. The registry also restricts names that constitute an abusive appropriation of a legally protected third-party right, such as a widely known trademark or a protected geographical indication. The domain holder is responsible for ensuring their use complies with applicable laws.
How are disputes over .cv domain names handled?
Disputes regarding .cv domain names are subject to the Uniform Domain-Name Dispute-Resolution Policy (UDRP). This policy provides a mechanism for trademark holders to challenge registrations made in bad faith. The registry's own rules also prohibit registrations that infringe on protected trademarks or names, offering an additional layer of protection against abusive registrations.
What is the difference between .cv and .com.cv?
Both .cv and .com.cv are open for registration by anyone without restrictions. The .com.cv subdomain is historically intended for commercial entities, but in practice, it functions similarly to the second-level .cv. The choice between them is largely a matter of preference, though .cv is shorter and is the primary extension marketed globally for personal use like online résumés.
