About .tf domain
.tf is a country code top-level domain (ccTLD) delegated for the French Southern and Antarctic Lands. It is managed by the French registry AFNIC, which also administers .fr and other French overseas TLDs. The domain was introduced in August 1997 and was initially administered by a different registry before being redelegated to AFNIC in 2004. As a product, it is a geographically restricted ccTLD offered alongside France's other national extensions.
Who can register .tf domain
Registration for a .tf domain is restricted. The registrant must be based in a European Union member state, Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway, or Switzerland. This is a geographic eligibility requirement enforced by the registry. There are no specific organizational or trademark-based restrictions beyond this residency rule. Registrations are made directly at the second level (e.g., example.tf).
How to register .tf domain
- Search for your desired .tf domain name's availability using a registrar that offers this extension. Confirm that the name complies with AFNIC's policy, which prohibits registrations containing only 1 or 2 alphanumeric characters.
- Compare pricing, contract terms, and included services like WHOIS privacy from registrars accredited to sell .tf domains. Note that pricing may differ from more common extensions like .com.
- Complete the checkout process with your chosen registrar. You will need to provide accurate contact information that can be verified against the geographic eligibility requirements.
- After purchase, verify your contact details as required by the registry and configure your domain's DNS settings, such as nameservers, through your registrar's control panel to make the domain active.
Typical uses of .tf domain
The .tf extension is most commonly used by entities, organizations, and individuals with a connection to the eligible European regions, often seeking a short, memorable alternative to more crowded ccTLDs. It is also utilized by projects, communities, or businesses with an interest in polar regions, exploration, or science, leveraging its association with the French Southern and Antarctic Lands. Some users choose it for its technical or creative projects where the "tf" abbreviation can be meaningful.
Tips for registering .tf domain
- The minimum registration term is typically one year, with renewal options available annually.
- WHOIS privacy services may be offered by some registrars, but you should confirm availability as policies can vary.
- Domain transfers between registrars are generally permitted, subject to AFNIC's transfer policy and a 60-day lock period after registration or a previous transfer.
- The registry has a specific prohibition on registering domain names containing only 1 or 2 numeric and/or alphabetic characters.
Frequently asked questions about .tf domain
How much does it cost to register and renew a .tf domain?
As of today, .tf domains start from $6.85/yr on NameBeta, with prices ranging up to $65.09/yr across 12 registrars. See the registrar comparison table on this page for live prices.Which registrars support .tf domains?
NameBeta tracks 12 registrars that support .tf domain registration, with the cheapest option at $6.85/yr. Full list on this page.Who operates .tf domain?
The registry for .tf domains is Afnic, administered by Association Française pour le Nommage Internet en Coopération (A.F.N.I.C.).
Who can register a .tf domain?
Registration is limited to individuals, businesses, or organizations based in a European Union member state, Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway, or Switzerland. You must provide verifiable contact information proving residency in one of these eligible regions during the registration process. There are no additional restrictions based on trademark or organizational type for applicants meeting this geographic criterion.
Can I transfer a .tf domain between registrars?
Transferring a .tf domain to a new registrar follows a standard process initiated by gaining the authorization code from your current provider. Transfers are subject to a 60-day lock period following initial registration or a previous successful transfer. Ensure your domain is unlocked and that all contact information is accurate and eligible before starting the transfer to avoid delays with the AFNIC registry.
What happens if I no longer meet the geographic eligibility requirement?
The registry's policies require the registrant to maintain eligibility throughout the domain's registration period. If your circumstances change and you no longer reside in an eligible country, you may be in violation of the registration agreement. It is advisable to contact your registrar or the registry directly to understand the specific procedures, which could involve updating your information or potentially losing the right to renew the domain.
Are there special dispute policies for .tf domains?
Yes, .tf domains are subject to AFNIC's dispute resolution policies, which include procedures for challenging abusive registrations. These policies are designed to address cases of cybersquatting and trademark infringement. The process is separate from the global UDRP but serves a similar purpose for this specific ccTLD, allowing rights holders to file complaints through AFNIC.
Can I register a .tf domain with non-Latin characters?
The standard .tf registration policy follows the rules for .fr, which primarily allows Latin script characters (a-z, 0-9, and hyphens). Registrations for domain names containing only 1 or 2 alphanumeric characters are not authorized. For specific information on potential internationalized domain name (IDN) registrations, you would need to consult the latest policy documentation from AFNIC or your registrar.
