About .voto domain
.voto is a generic top-level domain (gTLD) operated by Monolith Registry LLC and delegated in March 2014. It was introduced as part of ICANN's New gTLD Program. The registry's technical backend is managed by Afilias. Its stated purpose as a domain product is to provide a dedicated, easily identifiable namespace.
Who can register .voto domain
Registration for .voto domains is open to the general public without geographic restrictions. There are no specific verification requirements for most registrants. However, the applicant's original vision noted an intent to make domains available to official governments and verified office seekers, though this does not appear to be an enforced restriction for general availability.
How to register .voto domain
- Search for your desired .voto domain name at any ICANN-accredited registrar to check its availability.
- Compare pricing, registration term lengths, and add-on services like WHOIS privacy protection among different registrars before selecting one.
- Complete the checkout process, providing accurate registrant contact information and selecting your desired registration period.
- After purchase, verify your contact details via email if required and configure your domain's DNS settings to point to your website or email service.
Typical uses of .voto domain
The .voto extension is commonly used for websites related to elections, political campaigns, and civic engagement, particularly those targeting Spanish-speaking audiences. Political candidates, advocacy groups, and governmental organizations often choose it to create a clear, topical web address for their electoral information. It serves as a direct alternative to more generic extensions for content focused on voting, referenda, and political choice.
Tips for registering .voto domain
- Domains are registered on an annual basis, with typical minimum and maximum terms set by individual registrars.
- WHOIS privacy protection is generally available for .voto domains through participating registrars.
- Standard ICANN transfer policies apply, meaning domains can usually be transferred between registrars after 60 days, provided they are unlocked and the authorization code is obtained.
- The registry may have operated a Sunrise period for trademark holders prior to general availability, but general registration is now unrestricted.
Frequently asked questions about .voto domain
How much does it cost to register and renew a .voto domain?
As of today, .voto domains start from $9.99/yr on NameBeta, with prices ranging up to $118.42/yr across 24 registrars. See the registrar comparison table on this page for live prices.Which registrars support .voto domains?
NameBeta tracks 24 registrars that support .voto domain registration, with the cheapest option at $9.99/yr. Full list on this page.Who operates .voto domain?
The registry for .voto domains is Monolith Registry, administered by Monolith Registry LLC.
Who can register a .voto domain?
Registration is open to any individual or organization globally. While the original application mentioned a focus on serving governments and candidates, particularly for Spanish-language content, there are no enforced eligibility checks or documentation requirements for registrants. You can register a .voto domain through any standard registrar.
Can I transfer a .voto domain between registrars?
Transferring a .voto domain follows standard ICANN inter-registrar transfer policy. You must ensure the domain is unlocked at your current registrar and obtain the authorization code (EPP code). After initiating the transfer at the gaining registrar and approving the request, the transfer typically completes within five to seven days, provided the domain is more than 60 days old.
Was there a special registration period for trademark owners?
Yes, like most new gTLDs, .voto likely had a Sunrise period prior to its public launch. This period allowed trademark owners to register domains matching their verified trademarks through the Trademark Clearinghouse. Following Sunrise, a general Claims period would have provided notifications to potential registrants if a domain matched a trademark.
Are there any content restrictions for .voto websites?
The registry agreement does not impose specific content policies beyond standard ICANN requirements. Registrants must comply with applicable laws and the registry's acceptable use policy, but there are no unique mandates to post only election-related content. The use of the domain is at the registrant's discretion.
What dispute resolution policies apply to .voto domains?
.voto domains are subject to the Uniform Domain-Name Dispute-Resolution Policy (UDRP) for trademark-based disputes. As a new gTLD, it also adheres to the Uniform Rapid Suspension (URS) system, which provides a faster, lower-cost option for clear-cut cases of trademark infringement.
