About .ie domain
.ie is a country-code top-level domain (ccTLD) for Ireland, delegated in 1988. The registry is operated by IE Domain Registry Limited, with the sponsoring organization being University College Dublin. It is a managed registry with specific eligibility requirements, and registrations are made directly at the second level.
Who can register .ie domain
Registration is open to individuals and entities with a demonstrable connection to the island of Ireland. This includes residents, citizens, registered businesses, and organizations operating within Ireland or Northern Ireland. For those outside this geographic area, a real and substantive connection, such as selling goods or services into Ireland, must be proven. Applicants must provide documentation to verify their identity and their connection to Ireland during the application process.
How to register .ie domain
- Search for your desired .ie domain name's availability through an accredited .ie registrar. Before proceeding, ensure the name complies with the registry's naming rules, which prohibit certain terms and require it not to be offensive.
- Compare prices and services among accredited registrars. The registration fee is typically around €25 plus VAT, but prices and bundled features like email hosting may vary by provider.
- Complete the checkout process with your chosen registrar. You will be prompted to submit an application that includes providing the required proof of your connection to Ireland and your identity.
- After submission, the registry will review your application. Once approved, you must verify your contact details and configure your domain's DNS settings to point to your website or email service.
Typical uses of .ie domain
The .ie extension is predominantly used by businesses, organizations, and individuals with a tangible link to Ireland, serving as a trusted local identifier. Irish companies, from startups to established enterprises, favor .ie to signal their local presence and build trust with Irish consumers. It is also commonly used by educational institutions, government bodies, charities, and personal projects for individuals with Irish citizenship or residency, providing a clear geographic association for their online presence.
Tips for registering .ie domain
- Registrations require a minimum initial term of one year, with renewal terms also available annually.
- The registry operates a "first come, first served" policy once an applicant's eligibility is verified, so timely application is advised.
- WHOIS privacy services are generally not offered for .ie domains, as accurate registrant contact information is required for verification purposes.
- The registry has specific naming rules; for example, domain names containing the word 'university' are restricted to officially recognized institutions.
- Domain names can include Irish language fada characters (á, é, í, ó, ú), expanding naming options for Irish language sites.
Frequently asked questions about .ie domain
How much does it cost to register and renew a .ie domain?
As of today, .ie domains start from $16.20/yr on NameBeta, with prices ranging up to $84.95/yr across 9 registrars. See the registrar comparison table on this page for live prices.Which registrars support .ie domains?
NameBeta tracks 9 registrars that support .ie domain registration, with the cheapest option at $16.20/yr. Full list on this page.Who operates .ie domain?
The registry for .ie domains is IE Domain Registry CLG.
Who can register a .ie domain?
Eligibility extends beyond simple residency. Irish citizens living abroad, international companies with a customer base in Ireland, or holders of a registered Community Trademark can also qualify. The required documentation varies; a business may need a company registration number, while an individual might provide a passport or utility bill. The registry provides clear guidelines on acceptable proofs for different applicant types.
Can I transfer a .ie domain between registrars?
Transferring a .ie domain between registrars follows a standard process but requires the domain to be unlocked at the current registrar and for the registrant's contact email to be valid to receive the authorization code. The domain must be more than 60 days old and not within a redemption grace period. The new registrar will initiate the transfer, which the registry will approve provided the domain's registration details are in good standing.
What proof do I need to register a .ie domain?
The required documentation depends on your applicant category. An individual Irish citizen can use a passport or driving license, while a registered Irish business needs its Companies Registration Office number. For a foreign entity, evidence of a commercial connection, like invoices for sales to Irish customers, is typically required. The registry's website provides a detailed list of acceptable documents for every applicant type.
Are there any special dispute policies for .ie domains?
Yes, the .ie registry has its own dispute resolution policy (IEDR Dispute Resolution Policy) in addition to the standard UDRP. This policy specifically addresses conflicts arising from the registry's requirement for a "real and substantive connection" to Ireland. It provides a mechanism for challenging a registration if the registrant cannot demonstrate a legitimate connection, which is a unique aspect compared to open TLDs.
Can I register a .ie domain with Irish language characters (fadas)?
Yes, the .ie namespace supports Internationalized Domain Names (IDNs), including characters with fadas (acute accents) such as á, é, í, ó, and ú. This allows for the registration of domain names that accurately reflect Irish language words and names. The standard technical and eligibility requirements still apply to these registrations.
What happens if my registration application is rejected?
If your application is rejected, typically due to insufficient proof of connection or a naming policy violation, the registry or your registrar will notify you of the reason. You can often rectify the issue by submitting additional or corrected documentation. The registration fee is generally not charged until the application is approved, so you can reapply without financial penalty in most cases.
