About .int domain
.int is a sponsored top-level domain (sTLD) managed by the Internet Assigned Numbers Authority (IANA). It was one of the original TLDs delegated in November 1988. Its purpose is strictly reserved for a specific class of organizations, making it one of the most exclusive and policy-restricted domain extensions available. The registry operates the domain directly and does not sell registrations through commercial registrars.
Who can register .int domain
Registration is exclusively open to organizations established by international treaties between or among national governments. Eligible entities include United Nations agencies and organizations with UN observer status. The applicant must provide a certified copy of the establishing treaty, which must be listed in the UN treaty database. The organization itself must be widely recognized as having independent international legal personality under international law.
How to register .int domain
.int domains are not sold through commercial registrars. To obtain one, an eligible organization must apply directly to IANA. The process involves submitting a formal application through IANA's online registration form, providing the required treaty documentation for verification. IANA screens all applications against strict eligibility criteria based on RFC 1591 policy. If approved, IANA delegates the domain directly to the organization at no cost.
Typical uses of .int domain
The .int domain is used almost exclusively by intergovernmental organizations and international treaty-based entities. It is the standard choice for organizations like NATO (nato.int) and various United Nations agencies, signaling their status as subjects of international law. Entities choose .int over generic alternatives like .org or .com to clearly denote their official, treaty-based nature and to align with their legal identity on the global stage.
Tips for registering .int domain
- There is no registration fee for an approved .int domain name; IANA provides the delegation free of charge.
- Each eligible organization is permitted only one .int domain registration.
- The application requires submitting a certified copy of the establishing treaty or proof of its listing in the UN treaty database.
- Registrations are permanent for eligible organizations but are subject to IANA's ongoing policy compliance.
- The domain is not available for general public or commercial registration under any circumstances.
Frequently asked questions about .int domain
How much does it cost to register and renew a .int domain?
As of today, .int domains start from $124.00/yr on NameBeta, with prices ranging up to $124.00/yr across 1 registrars. See the registrar comparison table on this page for live prices.Which registrars support .int domains?
NameBeta tracks 1 registrars that support .int domain registration, with the cheapest option at $124.00/yr. Full list on this page.Who operates .int domain?
The registry for .int domains is Internet Assigned Numbers Authority.
Who can register a .int domain?
Registration is strictly limited to organizations created by an international treaty between national governments. This includes United Nations bodies and entities with UN observer status. The applicant must prove the treaty establishes the organization and that the organization possesses independent international legal personality. Documentation, such as a certified treaty copy or its UN registration number, is mandatory for verification.
Can I transfer a .int domain between registrars?
As .int domains are delegated directly by IANA and not held through commercial registrars, the standard inter-registrar transfer process does not apply. Any change in management or delegation would involve direct correspondence and approval with IANA. The domain is tied to the specific treaty-based organization, so transfer to a different entity would require a new eligibility review under the strict .int policy framework.
What happens if the treaty establishing my organization expires or changes?
The ongoing eligibility for a .int domain is contingent upon the organization's status under international law. If the foundational treaty is terminated or significantly altered, it may affect the organization's right to hold the domain. IANA's policy requires that the organization remains a subject of international law, so material changes to its legal basis should be communicated to IANA to ensure continued compliance.
Can an organization that had a .int domain in the past get it back?
Historical delegations from before the current strict policy was enforced, like those for internet infrastructure, were grandfathered but are not reissued under the old rules. If a currently eligible organization let its domain lapse, it would need to reapply through the standard IANA process, providing full treaty documentation. IANA would assess the application against the current stringent eligibility criteria.
Is there a dispute policy for .int domain names?
The .int domain does not have a formalized dispute policy like the UDRP used for generic TLDs. Given the exclusive eligibility criteria, conflicts over rightful ownership are inherently rare. Any disputes would likely be resolved by IANA through administrative review of the applicant's treaty-based eligibility and legal status, rather than through a third-party arbitration process.
