About .hiv domain
.hiv is a generic top-level domain (gTLD) operated by Uniregistry. It was delegated in 2014 and is notable as the first open charitable gTLD, with its ICANN contract precluding the operator from making a profit. Funds from domain sales are designated to support charitable projects related to HIV/AIDS awareness and treatment.
Who can register .hiv domain
Registration for .hiv domains is open to everyone with no restrictions. There are no geographic, organizational, or trademark-based requirements to register. Nonprofit organizations working in the HIV/AIDS field are eligible to receive .hiv domains at no cost, though general registrants purchase them through standard commercial channels.
How to register .hiv domain
- Search for your desired .hiv domain name using a registrar's search tool to check its availability. Consider using a registrar that offers WHOIS privacy protection as an add-on service.
- Compare prices and features from different accredited registrars. Note that a portion of the registration fee is directed to charitable funds, which may influence pricing.
- Complete the checkout process, providing accurate registrant contact information and selecting your desired registration term, which is typically one year or more.
- After purchase, verify your contact details via email to activate the domain and configure its DNS settings to point to your web hosting or service.
Typical uses of .hiv domain
The .hiv extension is commonly used by organizations, campaigns, and businesses wishing to demonstrate support for HIV/AIDS awareness and fundraising. It serves as a digital "red ribbon," allowing entities from various sectors—including health nonprofits, corporations, and media outlets—to align their online presence with a charitable cause. Users choose this TLD to visibly contribute to the fight against HIV/AIDS and to join a dedicated namespace for this purpose.
Tips for registering .hiv domain
- A portion of every .hiv domain registration fee is directed to a charitable fund supporting HIV/AIDS projects, as per the registry's non-profit model.
- Nonprofit organizations focused on HIV/AIDS work may be eligible for complimentary .hiv domains, subject to the registry's approval process.
- The registry operates under a unique charitable model where excess profits are reinvested into mission-related projects, as stipulated in its ICANN Public Interest Commitment.
Frequently asked questions about .hiv domain
How much does it cost to register and renew a .hiv domain?
As of today, .hiv domains start from $184.86/yr on NameBeta, with prices ranging up to $357.99/yr across 19 registrars. See the registrar comparison table on this page for live prices.Which registrars support .hiv domains?
NameBeta tracks 19 registrars that support .hiv domain registration, with the cheapest option at $184.86/yr. Full list on this page.Who operates .hiv domain?
The registry for .hiv domains is Internet Naming Co..
Who can register a .hiv domain?
Anyone can register a .hiv domain, as there are no eligibility restrictions. The TLD is marketed as an open, charitable namespace. While commercial entities and individuals register through standard channels, verified nonprofit organizations in the HIV/AIDS sector can apply to receive a domain for free directly from the registry.
Can I transfer a .hiv domain between registrars?
.hiv domains can be transferred between registrars following the standard ICANN transfer policy, which typically requires an authorization code and unlocked status. The charitable donation component of the domain is tied to the initial registration fee, so transferring a domain does not trigger an additional donation. Always confirm transfer policies with both your current and gaining registrar before initiating the process.
How does the charitable donation model work for .hiv?
The registry's contract with ICANN stipulates it cannot operate for profit. A portion of the fee from each .hiv domain sale is allocated to a charitable fund that supports HIV/AIDS projects. The original model also included micro-donations generated by website visits, though the current operational details under Uniregistry should be verified with the registry.
Are there any content requirements for .hiv websites?
There are no specific content mandates enforced by the registry for .hiv websites. However, the TLD is intended for use in support of HIV/AIDS awareness, and registrants are encouraged to use the domain in a manner consistent with this charitable purpose. The registry holds certain rights to ensure the extension's reputation is maintained.
What dispute policies apply to .hiv domains?
.hiv domains are subject to standard ICANN rights protection mechanisms, including the Uniform Domain-Name Dispute-Resolution Policy (UDRP) and the Uniform Rapid Suspension (URS) system. These policies help trademark owners address cases of cybersquatting or bad-faith registration within the .hiv namespace.
