About .pf domain
.pf is a country code top-level domain (ccTLD) delegated for French Polynesia. It is managed by the Office des postes et télécommunications de Polynésie française (OPT) and was introduced in March 1996. The extension is intended for entities connected with the territory, and registrations are made directly at the second level or under specific third-level domains like .org.pf.
Who can register .pf domain
Registration under .pf is restricted and requires a local presence. Eligible registrants include individuals or legal entities listed in the Territorial Business Directory (RTE) with a TAHITI number, or those holding a trademark registered with the French National Institute of Industrial Property (INPI). For specific second-level domains like .asso.pf, .edu.pf, and .gov.pf, eligibility is further limited to associations, educational institutions, and government entities, respectively.
How to register .pf domain
- Verify your eligibility by ensuring you have a TAHITI number from the RTE or a registered trademark with the INPI. You may also need to appoint a local contact.
- Submit a registration application, typically using the official form provided by the registry. The application must comply with naming rules, avoiding prohibited terms and respecting third-party rights.
- The registry reviews the application against its charter, which includes checks for intellectual property infringement and compliance with public decency standards.
- Upon approval, the domain is delegated. The registry manages the allocation directly, and there is no standard commercial registrar checkout process for this ccTLD.
Typical uses of .pf domain
The .pf domain is primarily used by entities with a direct connection to French Polynesia. This includes local businesses, government bodies, educational institutions, and associations based in the territory. It serves as a geographic identifier for websites targeting the local population or promoting tourism and services within the islands. Some entities choose it to emphasize their regional presence or to comply with local regulatory requirements for their online operations.
Tips for registering .pf domain
- A local contact or presence is mandatory for registration, typically verified through a TAHITI business number or trademark documentation.
- Domain names must adhere to a specific charter prohibiting offensive terms, generic words, and names that infringe on third-party rights or public order.
- Registrations can be made directly at the second level (e.g., example.pf) or under the open .org.pf third-level domain.
- The registry imposes technical restrictions, such as disallowing single-character names, two-letter names, or names beginning or ending with a hyphen.
Frequently asked questions about .pf domain
How much does it cost to register and renew a .pf domain?
As of today, .pf domains start from $209.00/yr on NameBeta, with prices ranging up to $246.40/yr across 2 registrars. See the registrar comparison table on this page for live prices.Which registrars support .pf domains?
NameBeta tracks 2 registrars that support .pf domain registration, with the cheapest option at $209.00/yr. Full list on this page.Who operates .pf domain?
The registry for .pf domains is Gouvernement de la Polynésie française.
Who can register a .pf domain?
Eligibility is primarily based on a verifiable local connection to French Polynesia. This is most commonly demonstrated by being listed in the Territorial Business Directory (RTE) with a TAHITI number. Alternatively, holding a trademark registered with the French INPI can also qualify an entity. For specific subdomains like .edu.pf or .gov.pf, additional proof of being an educational institution or government body is required.
Can I transfer a .pf domain between registrars?
The process for transferring a .pf domain between registrants is governed by the local registry's policies, not a standardized inter-registrar protocol. Since registration requires ongoing eligibility verification, any transfer would likely involve submitting a new application by the prospective registrant to the OPT. It is advisable to contact the registry directly to understand the specific documentation and approval steps needed for a change of domain holder.
What naming restrictions apply to a .pf domain?
The registry's charter prohibits a wide range of terms. You cannot register names that are offensive, racist, vulgar, or related to crimes. Technical Internet terms, names of regulated professions, and generic terms are also barred. Furthermore, names must not infringe on third-party intellectual property rights, competition rules, or an individual's right to their name. The name must also comply with laws protecting minors and public decency.
Can I register a .pf domain if I don't have a local business?
Yes, there are alternative pathways. If you hold a trademark registered with the French National Institute of Industrial Property (INPI), you may qualify for registration. For individuals, residency in French Polynesia is a requirement for some registration paths. The open .org.pf third-level domain is available to any eligible applicant without needing to justify the specific domain name requested, though the overarching eligibility rules still apply.
What is the dispute policy for .pf domains?
While a specific Uniform Domain-Name Dispute-Resolution Policy (UDRP) is not detailed in the source, the registry's charter explicitly forbids registrations that infringe on the intellectual property or other rights of third parties. Disputes would likely be handled according to the charter's rules and local French Polynesian law. Registrants agree not to use a domain in a way that harms others' rights, providing a basis for the registry to take action against abusive registrations.
