About .hk domain
.hk is a country code top-level domain (ccTLD) delegated for Hong Kong. It was introduced in 1990 and is operated by the Hong Kong Internet Registration Corporation Ltd. (HKIRC), with its subsidiary HKDNR managing day-to-day registration services. This domain product is a stable and established ccTLD offering both second-level and third-level registrations under various categories.
Who can register .hk domain
Registration eligibility varies by the specific domain category. The second-level .hk is open for registration to anyone. Third-level domains like .com.hk require a valid Hong Kong Business Registration Certificate, while .org.hk is for registered non-profit organizations. .idv.hk is restricted to individuals holding a Hong Kong identity card and aged 11 or above. .gov.hk is reserved for Hong Kong government agencies.
How to register .hk domain
- Search for your desired .hk domain name's availability using a registrar's search tool, noting that availability differs between open categories like .hk and restricted ones like .com.hk.
- Compare prices and terms from accredited registrars, checking for the minimum one-year registration term and any bundled services like WHOIS privacy, which may not be universally offered.
- Complete the checkout process, ensuring you select the correct domain category that matches your intended use and eligibility, as misapplication can lead to rejection.
- After purchase, you must promptly submit any required eligibility documentation to your registrar for verification before the domain can be activated in your account.
Typical uses of .hk domain
The .hk extension is predominantly used by entities with a connection to Hong Kong, making it the primary online identifier for the region. Businesses operating locally often choose .com.hk to signal their commercial presence and compliance with local regulations. Non-profit organizations, educational institutions, and network providers utilize their respective third-level domains to denote their sector. Individuals also register .idv.hk or .hk domains for personal websites and portfolios, valuing the local relevance and trust associated with the Hong Kong ccTLD.
Tips for registering .hk domain
- The minimum registration term for a .hk domain is one year, with renewals possible for one or multiple years at a time.
- Registrants must be at least 11 years old to register any .hk domain name, including the open .hk category.
- For restricted third-level categories like .com.hk or .org.hk, you must provide valid supporting documents (e.g., a Business Registration Certificate) to your registrar for verification before the domain is activated.
- Domain names must be used for lawful purposes, and registrants warrant they have the intention to use the domain and that it does not infringe on third-party rights.
Frequently asked questions about .hk domain
How much does it cost to register and renew a .hk domain?
As of today, .hk domains start from $12.23/yr on NameBeta, with prices ranging up to $117.85/yr across 14 registrars. See the registrar comparison table on this page for live prices.Which registrars support .hk domains?
NameBeta tracks 14 registrars that support .hk domain registration, with the cheapest option at $12.23/yr. Full list on this page.Who operates .hk domain?
The registry for .hk domains is Hong Kong Internet Registration, administered by Hong Kong Internet Registration Corporation Ltd..
Who can register a .hk domain?
Eligibility is category-specific. While .hk is open to anyone globally, categories like .com.hk and .org.hk require proof of a commercial entity or non-profit status registered in Hong Kong. Individuals need a valid Hong Kong ID card for .idv.hk. All registrants must be aged 11 or above and intend to use the domain for lawful purposes.
Can I transfer a .hk domain between registrars?
Transferring a .hk domain between registrars follows standard procedures but requires the domain to be unlocked and an authorization code to be obtained from the current registrar. The transfer request must be initiated at the gaining registrar, and the domain must be more than 60 days old and not within a redemption period. Ensure your registrant contact information is up-to-date to receive confirmation emails.
What documentation is needed for a .com.hk domain?
To register a .com.hk domain, you must provide a valid Hong Kong Business Registration Certificate (BRC) issued by the Inland Revenue Department. If the applicant is an overseas company, a Certificate of Registration of Overseas Company from the Hong Kong Companies Registry is required. This documentation must be submitted to your chosen accredited registrar for verification before the domain registration is completed.
Are there any content or usage policies for .hk domains?
Yes, registrants agree that the domain will be used for lawful purposes and will not infringe on the legal rights of any third party. The use must be bona fide for the registrant's own benefit. HKIRC and HKDNR have dispute resolution policies to address conflicts, including trademark infringement, and they reserve the right to suspend or cancel a domain if it is used in violation of applicable laws or regulations.
Can I register a Chinese-character .hk domain name?
Chinese-character domain names can be registered under the .香港 (dot Hong Kong in Chinese) internationalized domain name (IDN) ccTLD. Since mid-January 2011, new registrations of Chinese-character names directly under .hk (e.g., 中文.hk) have not been available, though previously registered ones can still be renewed. The .香港 extension offers equivalent second and third-level categories, such as .公司.香港.
What happens if I fail to provide required documents for a restricted category?
If you apply for a restricted third-level domain like .com.hk or .org.hk but fail to submit the required eligibility documents to your registrar within the specified timeframe, the domain application will not be processed and will ultimately be rejected. The domain name will then become available for others to register. It is crucial to prepare your documentation before initiating the registration.
