About .vi domain
.vi is a country code top-level domain (ccTLD) delegated for the U.S. Virgin Islands. It is operated by the Virgin Islands Public Telecommunication System and was introduced in 1995. The registry offers registrations directly at the second level as well as through select third-level categories.
Who can register .vi domain
Registration is open to anyone worldwide. However, residents and businesses physically located in the U.S. Virgin Islands (specifically St. Thomas, St. John, St. Croix, and Water Island) are eligible for significantly reduced registration fees. There are no organizational or trademark-based restrictions; the only technical requirement is that the domain must have at least two active name servers.
How to register .vi domain
- Search for your desired .vi domain name's availability on the official registry website or through an authorized registrar. You can check availability for second-level names (.vi) or third-level categories like .co.vi.
- Compare pricing, as fees are substantially lower for verified Virgin Islands residents compared to foreign registrants. Also, note that some domains are designated as premium and carry different pricing.
- Complete the checkout process with your chosen provider. During registration, you must warrant that your use of the domain name does not infringe on the legal rights of any third party.
- Finalize your registration by providing accurate contact details and configuring your domain's DNS settings with at least two functional name servers.
Typical uses of .vi domain
The .vi extension is primarily used by entities connected to the U.S. Virgin Islands, including local businesses, tourism operators, and community organizations seeking a distinct regional identity. While open globally, its most common adoption is within the territory, where residents and companies leverage it for local credibility and to benefit from lower registration costs. Some international registrants may also use it for creative or brand-specific purposes, given its open eligibility.
Tips for registering .vi domain
- Registration pricing is tiered: residents of the U.S. Virgin Islands pay a lower fee, while foreign registrants pay a higher standard rate. Premium domain names have separate pricing.
- Renewal fees are typically lower than the initial registration cost for foreign registrants, and there is a fee for most contact or name server updates.
- The registry does not publish a formal list of authorized registrars, so verification of a registrar's status is recommended before purchasing.
- Domains can be registered directly at the second level (.vi) or at the third level under categories like .co.vi, .com.vi, .org.vi, and .net.vi, with no additional restrictions in these subzones.
Frequently asked questions about .vi domain
How much does it cost to register and renew a .vi domain?
As of today, .vi domains start from $279.99/yr on NameBeta, with prices ranging up to $425.00/yr across 3 registrars. See the registrar comparison table on this page for live prices.Which registrars support .vi domains?
NameBeta tracks 3 registrars that support .vi domain registration, with the cheapest option at $279.99/yr. Full list on this page.Who operates .vi domain?
The registry for .vi domains is Virgin Islands Public Telecommunications System, administered by Virgin Islands Public Telecommunications System, Inc..
Who can register a .vi domain?
While anyone globally can register a .vi domain, eligibility for the resident discount requires proof of physical location in the U.S. Virgin Islands, such as a local address on St. Thomas, St. John, St. Croix, or Water Island. Businesses operating within the territory can also qualify for the reduced rate. No other documentation, such as trademarks or business licenses, is required for general registration.
Can I transfer a .vi domain between registrars?
Transferring a .vi domain between registrars is possible using an authorization code (Auth-Code) obtained from the current registrar. The process is standard, but you should confirm with both the gaining and losing registrars that they support .vi transfers. Be aware that most contact or name server updates may incur a fee from the registry, which could apply during a transfer preparation.
Are there any content or usage restrictions for .vi domains?
The registry's primary restriction is a legal warranty requiring the registrant to affirm that their registration and use of the domain does not infringe on a third party's rights. There are no specific content policies or mandated website themes. However, the registry advises using the Uniform Domain-Name Dispute-Resolution Policy (UDRP) to resolve trademark disputes, as they have not implemented a separate, dedicated dispute policy.
What is the difference between a .vi and a .co.vi domain?
A .vi domain is a second-level registration (e.g., example.vi), while .co.vi is a third-level registration under a specific category (e.g., example.co.vi). Both are available to all registrants with the same eligibility rules and resident pricing tiers. The choice is largely stylistic, as there are no functional or restrictive differences between the various second-level categories like .co.vi, .com.vi, .org.vi, and .net.vi.
How are premium .vi domains handled?
The registry designates certain .vi domain names as premium, which means they are priced differently from standard registrations. The premium pricing applies to both the initial registration and subsequent renewals. These premium names are available to all registrants, but the specific list and prices are set by the registry and are not part of the standard fee schedule for resident or foreign registrations.
