About .pa domain
.pa is a country code top-level domain (ccTLD) delegated to Panama. It is managed by the registry Nic Panamá, which is operated by the Universidad Tecnologica de Panama, and was launched in May 1994. The extension is structured to allow registrations directly at the second level (e.g., example.pa) and also under various designated third-level categories. It is governed by standard Internet policies, including the UDRP for dispute resolution.
Who can register .pa domain
Registration for a .pa domain name is intended for entities connected with Panama. While specific eligibility criteria can vary by registrar, registrants typically need to demonstrate a connection to the country, such as being a business, organization, or individual based there. To register a name directly at the second level (.pa), the registry's policy requires the registrant to also register the same name under an applicable third-level domain (e.g., com.pa).
How to register .pa domain
- Search for your desired domain name's availability at a registrar that offers .pa domains, noting that you may need to search for both the second-level (.pa) and a corresponding third-level (e.g., .com.pa) name.
- Compare pricing and terms from different accredited registrars, as fees and the required proof of connection to Panama can vary between providers.
- Complete the checkout process, which will involve providing accurate registrant contact information and any required documentation to verify your eligibility.
- After purchase, ensure your contact details are validated and configure your domain's DNS settings to point to your web hosting or email service.
Typical uses of .pa domain
The .pa extension is primarily used by entities with a connection to Panama, including local businesses, educational institutions, government agencies, and individuals. Commercial entities often use .com.pa, while organizations and professionals register under categories like .org.pa, .abo.pa (lawyers), or .med.pa (doctors). It is chosen to establish a clear local presence and trust within the Panamanian market, with government domains (.gob.pa) being strictly reserved for official use.
Tips for registering .pa domain
- Registrations require purchasing both a second-level (.pa) and a matching third-level domain (e.g., .com.pa), which may affect the total cost.
- The registry maintains a list of reserved terms that cannot be registered, including other TLDs, country names, and governmental terms.
- For .gob.pa domains used by Panamanian Government agencies, the associated server must be physically located within Panama.
- Standard dispute resolution for .pa domains follows the Uniform Domain-Name Dispute-Resolution Policy (UDRP).