About .su domain
.su is a country code top-level domain (ccTLD) originally delegated to the Soviet Union in 1990. It is administered by the Russian Institute for Public Networks (RIPN, or RosNIIROS). Despite the dissolution of the country it was assigned to, the domain remains an active, registrable product. ICANN has initiated a planned phase-out process for this extension, with a target retirement date of 2030.
Who can register .su domain
Registration of a .su domain requires a valid passport for identity verification. While open to registrants globally, this documentation requirement is a key restriction. The registry enforces this rule to process all new registrations. There are no geographic or organizational restrictions based on the registrant's location or affiliation.
How to register .su domain
- Search for your desired .su domain name at a participating accredited registrar to confirm its availability and view the pricing.
- Compare the offered registration terms, as .su domains typically have a minimum registration period of one year, and consider any add-ons like WHOIS privacy if available.
- Complete the checkout process, which will require you to submit a scanned copy of a valid passport for the registrant to fulfill the verification requirement.
- After purchase, respond promptly to any verification requests from the registrar and proceed to configure your domain's DNS settings to point to your hosting.
Typical uses of .su domain
The .su domain is commonly used by individuals and organizations with a historical, cultural, or nostalgic connection to the former Soviet Union. It is also frequently chosen by entities seeking a distinctive, non-standard web address. Due to its past reputation for relaxed oversight, the extension has seen significant use for cybercrime activities, though the registry has since implemented rules to suspend malicious domains. Some contemporary political groups in post-Soviet regions also utilize this TLD.
Tips for registering .su domain
- A valid passport for the registrant is mandatory for all new .su domain registrations to complete the verification process.
- Domains are registered for a minimum term of one year, with renewal pricing set by individual registrars.
- The registry has established policies to suspend domains involved in malicious activity, such as phishing or hacking.
- ICANN has notified the registry of a plan to phase out and retire the .su domain entirely by the year 2030.
Frequently asked questions about .su domain
How much does it cost to register and renew a .su domain?
As of today, .su domains start from $24.70/yr on NameBeta, with prices ranging up to $84.19/yr across 2 registrars. See the registrar comparison table on this page for live prices.Which registrars support .su domains?
NameBeta tracks 2 registrars that support .su domain registration, with the cheapest option at $24.70/yr. Full list on this page.Who operates .su domain?
The registry for .su domains is ROSNIIROS, administered by Russian Institute for Development of Public Networks (ROSNIIROS).
Who can register a .su domain?
While anyone can attempt to register a .su domain, the process is not unrestricted. The key requirement is that the registrant must provide a scanned copy of a valid passport for identity verification. This documentation is checked by the registrar as part of the standard registration procedure, and failure to provide it will prevent the domain from being registered.
Can I transfer a .su domain between registrars?
Transferring a .su domain to a different registrar follows a standard process but is contingent on the domain being active and unlocked. You must obtain an authorization code (EPP code) from your current registrar and initiate the transfer at the gaining registrar. Be aware that the domain's registration period will typically be extended by one year upon a successful transfer.
What documentation is needed to register a .su domain?
The primary and mandatory document required is a valid passport for the individual or organization representative listed as the registrant. You will need to provide a clear, scanned copy to your chosen registrar during the checkout process. The registrar submits this for verification by the registry, and the domain registration cannot be completed without this step.
Are there any content restrictions for .su websites?
While the .su registry does not enforce specific content policies like some sponsored TLDs, it does have rules against malicious activity. Since 2013, the registry has had agreements in place to combat cyber threats and can suspend domains used for phishing, hacking, or other illegal operations. Registrants should ensure their site content complies with all applicable local and international laws.
What is the future of the .su domain?
ICANN has formally notified the .su registry of a plan to phase out and retire the domain. The current target for complete retirement is the year 2030. This means that while registrations and renewals are possible now, the long-term viability of the extension is limited. Prospective registrants should consider this timeline when making a registration decision.
Can I register a .su domain for multiple years?
Yes, you can typically register a .su domain for multiple years at once, though the standard minimum term is one year. The maximum registration period allowed is usually ten years. It is advisable to check with your specific registrar for their offered term lengths and any potential discounts for multi-year commitments.
