About .vn domain
.vn is a country code top-level domain (ccTLD) delegated to Vietnam. The domain extension is operated by the Vietnam Internet Network Information Center (VNNIC), which has managed the registry since 2000. It was first introduced in 1994, making it one of the earlier established national domain extensions. The registry maintains a distributed server system with clusters both within Vietnam and internationally to ensure reliable service.
Who can register .vn domain
Registration for .vn domains is open to both individuals and organizations. Vietnamese citizens can register certain second-level domains like .id.vn for personal use. There are no strict geographic restrictions, meaning international entities can also register .vn domains, particularly under categories like .com.vn or .biz.vn. However, all registrants must comply with local regulations that prohibit domain names infringing on national sovereignty or social ethics.
How to register .vn domain
- Search for your desired .vn domain name using a registrar's search tool, checking both the second-level (e.g., example.vn) and various third-level options (e.g., example.com.vn) for availability. Note that single and two-character .vn domains are allocated via auction.
- Compare prices and terms from different accredited registrars, as pricing, bundled services like WHOIS privacy, and minimum registration periods (often one year) can vary.
- Complete the checkout process, providing accurate registrant contact information as required by the VNNIC policy. Be prepared to verify your identity if prompted by the registrar.
- After purchase, configure your domain's DNS settings through your registrar's control panel to point to your hosting provider, and ensure your contact details remain valid to comply with registry rules.
Typical uses of .vn domain
The .vn extension is predominantly used by entities connected to Vietnam, serving as the primary national online identity. It is widely adopted by local businesses, government agencies (.gov.vn), educational institutions (.edu.vn), and individuals seeking a clear association with the Vietnamese market. Many choose .vn over generic extensions to establish local trust, target Vietnamese consumers, and comply with local presence requirements for certain online activities. International companies operating in Vietnam also register .vn domains to solidify their local footprint.
Tips for registering .vn domain
- The minimum registration term is typically one year, and you can register domains at both the second level (example.vn) and under various specific third-level categories like .com.vn or .id.vn.
- Domain names must adhere to content rules set by VNNIC, prohibiting terms that infringe on national sovereignty, security, or social ethics.
- Single-character (e.g., a.vn) and two-character (e.g., a1.vn) .vn domain names are not available for standard registration and are instead allocated through a registry-administered auction process.
- When registering, ensure the domain name does not begin or end with a hyphen and does not contain two consecutive hyphens, as per the technical syntax rules.
Frequently asked questions about .vn domain
How much does it cost to register and renew a .vn domain?
As of today, .vn domains start from $53.88/yr on NameBeta, with prices ranging up to $168.99/yr across 6 registrars. See the registrar comparison table on this page for live prices.Which registrars support .vn domains?
NameBeta tracks 6 registrars that support .vn domain registration, with the cheapest option at $53.88/yr. Full list on this page.Who operates .vn domain?
The registry for .vn domains is VNNIC, administered by Viet Nam Internet Network Information Center (VNNIC).
Who can register a .vn domain?
Registration is open globally to individuals and organizations, but eligibility for specific second-level domains varies. For instance, .id.vn is reserved for Vietnamese citizens, while .gov.vn is for state agencies. International businesses commonly use .com.vn or .biz.vn. All registrants must provide accurate contact information and ensure their chosen domain name complies with Vietnam's regulatory policies on content.
Can I transfer a .vn domain between registrars?
Transferring a .vn domain between registrars follows a standard process initiated by the gaining registrar. You will typically need to obtain an authorization code (EPP code) from your current registrar and ensure the domain is unlocked and not within a 60-day lock period following a previous transfer or registration. The transfer request must be approved by the current registrar, and the domain must be active and not in a redemption grace period to proceed.
Are there any content restrictions for .vn domain names?
Yes, the registry enforces content policies. Domain names must not contain words or phrases that intrude upon national sovereignty, security, or social ethics. Registrants are also expected to avoid creating confusion by omitting accent marks in Vietnamese language domains or abusing polysemantic words. Violations of these rules can lead to the domain being suspended or revoked by the registry.
How are disputes over .vn domain names handled?
Disputes are generally subject to the registry's policies and Vietnamese law. While the Uniform Domain-Name Dispute-Resolution Policy (UDRP) may apply, specific local regulations also govern conflicts, particularly those involving national trademarks or cultural sensitivities. It is advisable to consult the VNNIC website for the official dispute resolution procedure before registering a potentially contentious name.
Can I register a .vn domain with Vietnamese characters (IDN)?
Yes, the .vn registry supports the registration of internationalized domain names containing Vietnamese-specific characters like â, ă, đ, ê, ô, ơ, and ư. These domains must comply with the same technical and content rules as ASCII names. The length limit for the domain label (after conversion to ASCII format) is 63 characters.
What is the policy for premium or short .vn domains?
Single-character (e.g., a.vn) and two-character (e.g., z9.vn) .vn domains are classified as premium and are not available through standard registration. These domains are allocated by the registry via a public auction process. This includes both ASCII characters and the seven Vietnamese-specific characters, making a total of 43 one-character domains available for auction.
