There are three main phases of registering a new gTLD
The first phase is SUNRISE:
This allows trademark holders to register the domain before anyone else, as long as the domain is relevant to their trademark. If more than one trademark holder shows interest in a domain, the domain will go to auction, with the highest bidder registering the domain. This auction can last up to 7 days before general availability. If there are no trademark holders interested in the domain, the registry will accept orders from those who meet certain requirements (please contact us for more information). There is a non-refundable fee to enter this phase and successful registrations are not guaranteed.
The second phase is EARLY ACCESS PROGRAMME (EAP):
If the domain is still available after the sunrise phase, the domain will enter an early access programme (EAP). This is essentially an auction for companies to bid for their desired domain and can last from 7 days to 6 weeks. There is no trademark needed for this phase but the fee is substantially higher than after general availability. This is ideal for companies without a trademark who want to ensure that they obtain their domain before general release. There is a non-refundable fee to enter this phase.
The final phase is GENERAL AVAILABILITY:
After the week-long EAP, if the domain is still available, it will enter general availability and anyone will be able to register the domain. General availability operates on a first come, first served basis. We can PRE-REGISTER your chosen domain today. This does not guarantee that your domain will be registered successfully, but ensures that you are as close to the front of the queue as possible. Simply submit an order and we’ll take care of the rest. |