About .みんな domain
.みんな is a generic top-level domain (gTLD) operated by Google's Charleston Road Registry. It was delegated to the root zone in November 2013, making it one of the first new gTLD applications from Google to sign a contract with ICANN. The extension is an Internationalized Domain Name (IDN) in the Hiragana script, and it was applied for as an open TLD for public registration.
Who can register .みんな domain
Registration for .みんな domains is open to everyone globally, with no geographic, organizational, or trademark-based restrictions. There is no requirement to provide documentation proving a connection to Japanese language or culture. The TLD is designed for use by the general public, including individuals, businesses, and organizations.
How to register .みんな domain
- Search for your desired .みんな domain name on any accredited registrar's website to check its availability. Many registrars offer WHOIS privacy as an add-on service.
- Compare prices, registration terms, and features like DNS management tools across different registrars before selecting one.
- Complete the checkout process, which typically requires providing accurate contact details and selecting a registration period, often with a minimum of one year.
- After purchase, verify your contact email and configure your domain's DNS settings, such as nameservers, to point to your hosting provider.
Typical uses of .みんな domain
The .みんな extension is commonly used by websites that wish to convey a sense of community, inclusivity, or broad appeal to a Japanese-speaking audience. Businesses, community groups, and personal projects targeting Japan or global Japanese communities often choose this TLD for its direct meaning of "everyone," making it suitable for platforms that welcome wide participation. It serves as an alternative to other Japanese IDN TLDs for registrants seeking a universally understood concept within the language.
Tips for registering .みんな domain
- Domains are typically registered for a minimum term of one year, with options to register for multiple years upfront.
- WHOIS privacy protection is generally available for this TLD through most commercial registrars.
- The TLD had a structured launch with Sunrise and Landrush periods for trademark holders and early applicants before General Availability.
- Standard ICANN transfer policies apply, but domains may be subject to a 60-day transfer lock after registration or a change of registrant.
Frequently asked questions about .みんな domain
How much does it cost to register and renew a .みんな domain?
As of today, .みんな domains start from $6.38/yr on NameBeta, with prices ranging up to $26.37/yr across 11 registrars. See the registrar comparison table on this page for live prices.Which registrars support .みんな domains?
NameBeta tracks 11 registrars that support .みんな domain registration, with the cheapest option at $6.38/yr. Full list on this page.Who operates .みんな domain?
The registry for .みんな domains is Google Registry, administered by Charleston Road Registry Inc..
Who can register a .みんな domain?
Anyone worldwide can register a .みんな domain name without needing to demonstrate a specific affiliation or purpose. The registry's mission is to provide a domain space for public use, so there are no verification steps or eligibility screenings required during the registration process. This makes it accessible to individuals, companies, and non-profits alike.
Can I transfer a .みんな domain between registrars?
Transferring a .みんな domain between registrars follows the standard ICANN inter-registrar transfer policy. You will need to obtain an authorization code (EPP code) from your current registrar and ensure the domain is unlocked and not within the 60-day transfer lock period that often follows a new registration. The process is initiated at the gaining registrar and typically completes within 5-7 days.
Was there a special period for trademark holders to register .みんな domains?
Yes, a Sunrise period was held from January 15 to February 14, 2014, prior to General Availability. This allowed trademark holders registered in the Trademark Clearinghouse to secure domain names matching their marks. Following Sunrise, a Landrush period was also conducted before the TLD opened for general registration.
What dispute resolution policies apply to .みんな domains?
.みんな domains are subject to the Uniform Domain-Name Dispute-Resolution Policy (UDRP), which is used to resolve conflicts involving abusive registrations of trademarks. Additionally, as a new gTLD, it also adheres to the Uniform Rapid Suspension (URS) system, which provides a faster, lower-cost alternative to the UDRP for clear-cut cases of trademark infringement.
Can I register second-level domains in Japanese characters under .みんな?
Yes, the registry, Charleston Road Registry, explicitly supports Internationalized Domain Names (IDNs) at the second level for the Japanese language. This means you can register domain names entirely in Japanese characters (e.g., 例.みんな), expanding the TLD's usability for a native-speaking audience.
