About .pt domain
The .pt domain is a country code top-level domain (ccTLD) for Portugal, managed by the Associação DNS.PT registry. It was delegated in June 1988. While originally structured with various second-level domains for specific entity types, unrestricted registration directly at the second level (like example.pt) became available in May 2012, broadening its accessibility as a domain product.
Who can register .pt domain
Registration directly under .pt (e.g., example.pt) is open to anyone globally, with no restrictions based on nationality, residency, or organization type. For specific second-level domains like .gov.pt, registration is restricted to entities that are part of the Government of Portugal's structure and must be processed through a separate government network. Other legacy second-level domains like .com.pt, .org.pt, and .nome.pt are no longer open for new registrations, though existing registrations can be renewed.
How to register .pt domain
- Search for your desired .pt domain name's availability using a domain registrar's search tool, checking both the direct second-level (example.pt) and any available legacy subdomains.
- Compare pricing, included features like WHOIS privacy, and the reputation of various ICANN-accredited registrars authorized to sell .pt domains.
- Complete the checkout process, providing accurate registrant contact information and selecting your desired registration term, which typically starts at one year.
- Verify your email to confirm the registration and then configure your domain's DNS settings, such as nameservers, through your registrar's control panel to point it to your website or email service.
Typical uses of .pt domain
The .pt extension is most commonly used by individuals, businesses, and organizations connected to Portugal, serving as a clear digital identifier of Portuguese affiliation or local presence. It is very popular within the country, with entities often preferring the direct .pt format for its simplicity and memorability over the older second-level structures. While companies and educational institutions use it, the extension is also widely adopted by individuals and publications seeking a recognizable and trusted online identity associated with Portugal.
Tips for registering .pt domain
- You can register a .pt domain for a minimum term of one year, with renewal possible for subsequent one-year periods.
- WHOIS privacy protection services are generally available for .pt domains through most commercial registrars.
- Domain names must be between 2 and 63 characters and can include digits, letters a-z, hyphens (with restrictions), and specific Portuguese accented characters for IDN registrations.
- The registry enforces content-based restrictions, prohibiting registration of names that correspond to obscene language, protected geographical indications, or well-known trademarks registered in bad faith.
Frequently asked questions about .pt domain
How much does it cost to register and renew a .pt domain?
As of today, .pt domains start from $11.56/yr on NameBeta, with prices ranging up to $59.99/yr across 9 registrars. See the registrar comparison table on this page for live prices.Which registrars support .pt domains?
NameBeta tracks 9 registrars that support .pt domain registration, with the cheapest option at $11.56/yr. Full list on this page.Who operates .pt domain?
The registry for .pt domains is Associação DNS.PT.
Who can register a .pt domain?
While registration under .pt is open globally, certain legacy second-level domains have specific eligibility rules that are now closed to new registrants. For instance, .gov.pt remains exclusively for Portuguese government entities. It is important to note that names corresponding to protected geographical designations or well-known trademarks cannot be registered if done in bad faith.
Can I transfer a .pt domain between registrars?
Transferring a .pt domain between registrars follows standard ICANN transfer procedures, requiring you to unlock the domain and obtain an authorization code from your current provider. The registry does not impose additional transfer locks beyond standard policies, but you must ensure the domain is not within 60 days of initial registration or a previous transfer to be eligible.
Can I register a .pt domain with Portuguese accented characters?
Yes, the .pt registry supports Internationalized Domain Names (IDNs), allowing specific Portuguese accented characters like á, ç, é, and õ. These domains must comply with the standard length rules and technical formatting for IDNs. Registrars that support IDN registration can process these requests.
What happens if my desired .pt domain name is a geographical name?
The .pt registration rules explicitly prohibit registering domain names that correspond to protected Portuguese or European geographical indications or to well-known geographical names, such as names of countries or Portuguese municipalities. An application for such a name would be considered inadmissible by the registry.
Are there any special dispute policies for .pt domains?
Yes, alongside standard policies like the UDRP, the .pt registry has its own registration rules that prohibit abusive appropriation of third-party rights. Disputes can be initiated if a registration is deemed to be in bad faith, such as targeting a well-known trademark. The registry's own procedures provide an additional mechanism for challenging registrations.
What are the rules for using hyphens in a .pt domain name?
Hyphens are permitted in .pt domain names but only as a separator between words. A hyphen cannot be used at the very beginning or the very end of the domain name. Additionally, a domain name starting with "xn--" (the prefix for an IDN) cannot have two consecutive hyphens in the third and fourth character positions.
