About .zm domain
.zm is a country code top-level domain (ccTLD) for Zambia, managed by the Zambia Information and Communications Technology Authority (ZICTA). It was delegated in March 1994 and redelegated to ZICTA in 2013. This domain extension is a restricted product, intended for entities with a verifiable connection to Zambia. Registration typically occurs at the third level beneath established second-level categories.
Who can register .zm domain
Registration is restricted to legal entities with a verifiable presence in Zambia. This generally means businesses, organizations, or individuals who can provide documentation proving their local connection. Most registrants must register at the third level, such as example.co.zm or example.org.zm. An exception exists for registered Internet Service Providers (ISPs) in Zambia, which may apply for a domain at the second level (e.g., example.zm).
How to register .zm domain
- Check availability: Search for your desired domain name at an accredited .zm registrar, specifying the appropriate second-level category like .co.zm or .org.zm.
- Prepare documentation: Before purchase, gather the required documentation that proves your legal presence or connection to Zambia, as this will be needed for verification.
- Submit application: Complete the registrar's application form and submit it along with your supporting documents for the registry's approval.
- Configure service: Once your registration is approved by the registry, complete payment with the registrar and configure your domain's DNS settings to point to your web hosting.
Typical uses of .zm domain
The .zm domain is primarily used by entities operating within or targeting the Zambian market. Businesses, commercial organizations, and local non-profits commonly use extensions like .co.zm and .org.zm to establish a clear Zambian identity online. While .com is more widely used in the country, .zm domains are chosen by organizations, academic institutions, and government bodies to signal their local presence and relevance to a Zambian audience, leveraging the trusted country-code association.
Tips for registering .zm domain
- Registrations are made at the third level under specific second-level domains like .co.zm, .org.zm, or .gov.zm, each intended for a particular type of entity.
- You must provide documentation proving a legal presence in Zambia to complete the registration process.
- Only registered Internet Service Providers (ISPs) licensed in Zambia are accredited to act as registrars for the .zm namespace.
- The registry's official policies, such as those regarding transfers or WHOIS privacy, are not published online; consult an accredited registrar for specific procedural details.
Frequently asked questions about .zm domain
How much does it cost to register and renew a .zm domain?
As of today, .zm domains start from $74.70/yr on NameBeta, with prices ranging up to $74.70/yr across 1 registrars. See the registrar comparison table on this page for live prices.Which registrars support .zm domains?
NameBeta tracks 1 registrars that support .zm domain registration, with the cheapest option at $74.70/yr. Full list on this page.Who operates .zm domain?
The registry for .zm domains is ZICTA, administered by Zambia Information and Communications Technology Authority (ZICTA).
Who can register a .zm domain?
Registration is limited to entities that can demonstrate a legal presence in Zambia. This typically requires submitting official documentation, such as business registration or proof of local operations, to an accredited ISP registrar. While most registrants use third-level domains, registered Zambian ISPs may be eligible to apply for a second-level .zm domain directly.
Can I transfer a .zm domain between registrars?
Transferring a .zm domain between registrars involves procedures set by the ZICTA registry and the accredited ISPs that act as registrars. You must initiate the transfer through the gaining registrar and likely provide authorization and verification of your eligibility. It is best to contact your current and prospective registrars directly for their specific transfer requirements and any applicable fees.
What are the different second-level domains for .zm and who are they for?
There are eleven established second-level domains for third-level registrations. Common categories include .co.zm and .com.zm for commercial entities, .org.zm for non-commercial organizations, .gov.zm for government, and .ac.zm or .edu.zm for academic institutions. The specific use case for each is based on observed convention, as the registry does not maintain formal public documentation codifying these designations.
Can I register a .zm domain if I don't have a physical office in Zambia?
Eligibility is based on having a "presence in Zambia," which is interpreted as a legal connection. This may include being a registered business, having local operations, or other formal ties to the country. If you cannot provide documentation proving such a connection, your application will not be approved by the registry. You should consult with an accredited registrar to clarify what specific evidence is acceptable.
How do I find an accredited registrar for a .zm domain?
The Zambia Information and Communications Technology Authority (ZICTA) licenses Internet Service Providers (ISPs) in Zambia, and only these licensed ISPs can act as registrars. ZICTA maintains a public list of licensed electronic communication operators on its website. You must select a registrar from this official list to begin the .zm domain registration process.
