About .wf domain
.wf is a country code top-level domain (ccTLD) delegated for Wallis and Futuna. It is operated by AFNIC, the French Network Information Centre, and was delegated in November 1997. The TLD is open for public registration and is managed under policies similar to other French ccTLDs like .fr.
Who can register .wf domain
Registration for .wf domains is open to individuals and organizations, but with a geographic restriction. The registrant must be based in a member state of the European Union, or in Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway, or Switzerland. There is no requirement for a local presence within Wallis and Futuna itself.
How to register .wf domain
- Search for your desired .wf domain name at any accredited registrar to check its availability. Ensure the name complies with AFNIC's naming policy, which prohibits registrations containing only one or two numeric or alphabetic characters.
- Compare registration offers from different registrars, paying attention to the total first-year price, renewal rates, and included services like DNS management.
- Complete the checkout process with your chosen registrar. You will need to provide accurate registrant contact information that verifies your eligibility based in an eligible European country.
- After purchase, verify your contact details as required by the registry and configure your domain's DNS settings, such as nameservers, to point to your hosting provider.
Typical uses of .wf domain
The .wf extension sees limited use, primarily by entities with a connection to the Wallis and Futuna Islands, such as local businesses, cultural projects, or individuals. It is also registered by speculators or as a niche alternative to more common ccTLDs. Its association with the French territory makes it a potential choice for branding related to the region, though its practical use is not widespread.
Tips for registering .wf domain
- The minimum registration period is one year, and domains can typically be registered for multiple years in advance.
- WHOIS privacy services may be available through your registrar, but you should confirm this as AFNIC policies require accurate registrant data.
- Domain names containing only one or two characters (numeric or alphabetic) are not authorized for registration under the .wf TLD.
- Standard transfer and redemption policies apply, including a transfer lock period after registration or a change of registrant details.
Frequently asked questions about .wf domain
How much does it cost to register and renew a .wf domain?
As of today, .wf 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 .wf domains?
NameBeta tracks 12 registrars that support .wf domain registration, with the cheapest option at $6.85/yr. Full list on this page.Who operates .wf domain?
The registry for .wf domains is Afnic, administered by Association Française pour le Nommage Internet en Coopération (A.F.N.I.C.).
Who can register a .wf domain?
Registrants must have a legal presence in an eligible European country, which includes all EU member states, Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway, and Switzerland. This requirement is verified through the contact information provided during registration. There are no additional restrictions based on trademark or organizational type for eligible entities.
Can I transfer a .wf domain between registrars?
Transferring a .wf domain between registrars follows the standard EPP transfer process, requiring an authorization code from the current registrar. The domain must be unlocked and not within 60 days of initial registration or a previous transfer. The gaining registrar will initiate the transfer, which the losing registrar must approve or allow to auto-complete within a set timeframe.
Are there any specific character restrictions for .wf domain names?
Yes, beyond standard syntax rules, .wf domains cannot consist of only one or two characters, whether they are letters or numbers. For example, names like "a.wf" or "12.wf" are not permitted. All registered names must be at least three characters long.
What dispute resolution policies apply to .wf domains?
.wf domains are subject to AFNIC's dispute resolution policies, which are similar to those for .fr. This includes the SYRELI procedure for resolving conflicts over domain names, particularly cases involving bad faith registration or trademark infringement. The process is designed to be faster and less costly than a standard UDRP proceeding.
Can I register a .wf domain if I live outside Europe?
No, the eligibility rules are strictly geographic. If your legal residence or business establishment is not within a European Union country, Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway, or Switzerland, you cannot register a .wf domain. Using a proxy service or providing false contact information to bypass this rule violates registry policy and can lead to the domain's deletion.
