About .gr domain
.gr is a country code top-level domain (ccTLD) delegated for Greece. The registry is operated by ICS-FORTH GR, a research foundation, with the domain being introduced in 1989. It is an active ccTLD with a well-established structure that includes several second-level domains for specific entity types. An internationalized domain name (IDN) variant, .ελ, representing Greece in Greek script, was delegated in 2015 and became operational in 2018.
Who can register .gr domain
Registration for .gr domains is open to both Greek and foreign individuals and legal entities, with no requirement to be established within the country. Most registrations occur directly at the second level (example.gr) or under specific second-level domains like .com.gr, which are generally unrestricted. However, some specialized second-level domains, such as .gov.gr, .edu.gr, and .mil.gr, are reserved for government, educational, and military use respectively and have eligibility requirements.
How to register .gr domain
- Search for your desired domain name using a registrar accredited by the .gr registry to check its availability in either the .gr or .ελ namespace.
- Compare pricing, registration terms (typically one year minimum), and additional services like WHOIS privacy from different accredited registrars before selecting one.
- Complete the checkout process with your chosen registrar, providing accurate registrant contact information as required by the registry's regulations.
- After purchase, verify your contact details and configure your domain's DNS settings, such as nameservers, through your registrar's control panel to make the domain active.
Typical uses of .gr domain
The .gr extension is very popular within Greece and is widely used by businesses, organizations, and individuals connected to the country. Commercial entities often use .com.gr or register directly at the second level (.gr) for their online presence, while non-profits use .org.gr. The TLD serves as a clear geographic identifier, helping local businesses establish trust with a Greek audience and allowing diaspora communities to signal their connection to Greece. The introduction of .ελ provides an option for websites using the Greek alphabet.
Tips for registering .gr domain
- The minimum registration term is typically one year, with renewals occurring annually.
- WHOIS privacy services are generally available through accredited registrars, but you must ensure your underlying registrant contact data remains accurate as per registry rules.
- Domain names can consist of Latin or Greek alphabet characters, but a single domain level cannot mix both scripts; Greek-script domains are technically registered in Punycode format.
- The registry has policies for deleting domains registered or used in bad faith, or those that conflict with existing rights, public order, or official state terms.
Frequently asked questions about .gr domain
How much does it cost to register and renew a .gr domain?
As of today, .gr domains start from $15.00/yr on NameBeta, with prices ranging up to $254.20/yr across 12 registrars. See the registrar comparison table on this page for live prices.Which registrars support .gr domains?
NameBeta tracks 12 registrars that support .gr domain registration, with the cheapest option at $15.00/yr. Full list on this page.Who operates .gr domain?
The registry for .gr domains is ICS-FORTH GR.
Who can register a .gr domain?
Both individuals and companies, regardless of nationality or location, can register a .gr domain. While most second-level domains like .com.gr are open, specific ones like .gov.gr or .mil.gr are restricted to verified government or military entities. Foreign registrants should ensure their chosen registrar can service their region and assist with any necessary documentation for restricted subdomains.
Can I transfer a .gr domain between registrars?
Transferring a .gr domain between accredited registrars follows a standard process initiated by gaining authorization from the current registrant. You must obtain an auth code from your current registrar and ensure the domain is not within a 60-day lock period following a previous transfer or registration. The registry does not impose additional local presence requirements for approving inter-registrar transfers.
Can I register a domain name using Greek characters?
Yes, you can register domain names using the Greek alphabet under both the .gr and the dedicated .ελ extensions. The domain is registered in its Punycode format, but displays in Greek script. It's important to note that you cannot mix Latin and Greek characters within the same domain level (e.g., within the part before .gr).
What are the rules for .gr domain name composition?
A .gr domain name's variable part (the part you choose) must be between 2 and 63 characters long, not counting the .gr or .ελ ending. It can include alphanumeric characters and hyphens, but hyphens cannot appear at the start or end of a level. For Greek-script names, the 63-character limit applies to the Punycode version, which may be longer than the visible Greek text.
What happens if my .gr domain name conflicts with a trademark?
The .gr registry's regulations allow for the deletion of a domain name if it is identical or confusingly similar to a name protected by law and was registered without a right or legitimate interest, or in bad faith. Trademark holders can pursue such cases through the registry's dispute resolution mechanisms, which are separate from the global UDRP but follow similar principles of bad faith registration.
Are there any special activation rules for Greek-script domain variants?
When you register a domain with Greek characters, the registry automatically reserves several grammatical variants (like different placements of accent marks or the word-final sigma 'ς') for you. However, these variant forms are not automatically active; you must submit a specific activation request to the registry through your registrar if you wish to use them.
