Proposed Top-Level Domain: What You Need to Know

A proposed top-level domain is a new extension to the internet's domain name system that can be applied for by organizations or companies.

The process of applying for a top-level domain involves submitting an application to the Internet Corporation for Assigned Names and Numbers (ICANN), which oversees the global domain name system.

There are several types of proposed top-level domains, including geographic, generic, and sponsored domains.

The application process for a top-level domain can take several years to complete, with a fee of up to $185,000.

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ICANN's key commitment is to promote competition in the domain name market.

New generic Top-Level Domains (gTLDs) help achieve that commitment by paving the way for increased consumer choice.

This means that soon entrepreneurs, businesses, governments, and communities around the world will be able to apply to operate a Top-Level Domain registry of their own choosing.

ICANN is also committed to ensuring Internet security and stability, which is a crucial aspect of introducing new gTLDs.

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The introduction of new gTLDs is not expected to affect the way the Internet operates. However, it may change how people find information online.

The increased number of gTLDs in the root will likely alter the way businesses plan and structure their online presence. This could require some adjustments, but it's not a drastic change.

The Internet's core functionality will remain the same, and users can expect a seamless experience. The impact will be more on the surface level, with changes in how we navigate and find content.

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Any established public or private organization can apply to create and operate a new generic Top-Level Domain (gTLD) registry.

The applicant will need to demonstrate operational, technical, and financial capability to run a registry and comply with specific requirements.

Applicants will need to pay an evaluation fee of US$185,000, with a US$5,000 deposit fee per requested application slot when registering.

Each applied-for gTLD string requires its own application, so a translation of ".thing" in Arabic characters would be a separate application.

Applicants will need to apply via the online application system called TAS – TLD Application System, and each application will be reviewed according to its own merits.

The evaluation process will involve a thorough review of the application, including its technical, financial, and operational aspects.

Any established public or private organization can apply to create and operate a new generic Top-Level Domain (gTLD) registry. They'll need to demonstrate operational, technical, and financial capability to run a registry and comply with specific requirements.

The application fee is US$185,000, with a US$5,000 deposit fee per requested application slot. This deposit will be credited against the evaluation fee.

Applicants will apply via an online application system called TAS – TLD Application System. Each applied-for gTLD string requires its own application.

The evaluation process involves a significant amount of information, as ICANN asks for detailed data to ensure the security, stability, and global interoperability of the Internet.

ICANN does not accept reservations or pre-registrations of new gTLDs, so applicants must submit their applications during the designated application period.

Applicants will be required to pay additional fees depending on the specific application path, as outlined in the Applicant Guidebook.

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Applying for Multiple gTLDs is allowed, but each application requires its own submission.

You can apply for multiple gTLDs, but each one must meet the specific technical rules set by ICANN.

An application for a string composed entirely of numbers will be rejected, so make sure your chosen gTLD doesn't fall into this category.

If you choose an IDN gTLD, additional technical requirements apply, so be sure to review the Applicant Guidebook carefully.

Applicants for a geographic name gTLD must meet additional requirements, and all restrictions are outlined in section 2.2.1 of the Applicant Guidebook.

You'll need to provide a detailed plan for the launch and operation of each proposed gTLD, as ICANN expects all new gTLDs to be operational within one year of signing a registry agreement.

If you apply for multiple gTLDs, each one will be treated individually, and there's no discount on application fees based on filing multiple applications.

Applicants should note that the application process is designed to prevent two strings that are "confusingly similar" from both being delegated into the DNS.

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Pre-registration of second-level domain names is not possible, as no one can predict which TLDs will be available and the new TLD operator may choose not to sell second-level registrations.

Be wary of anyone claiming to reserve your place in line for a second-level registration, as it's not a viable option.

ICANN does not accept reservations or pre-registrations based on trademarks, but registries will be required to operate sunrise or intellectual property claims services for trademark protection.

Pre-registering a name is a bit of a misnomer, as it's not possible to reserve a spot in line for a second-level domain name. Not only can no one predict which TLDs will be available, but the new TLD operator may choose not to sell second-level registrations.

You can't pre-register a second-level domain name, so don't believe anyone who claims to be able to reserve your place in line. The new TLD operator has the final say on which domains will be available.

Historically, businesses acquired second-level domain names, but now they'll have the opportunity to claim a customized gTLD. Instead of using a second-level domain name under a gTLD like ".com", a company can use its company name as the gTLD itself.

Trademark Reservation is not an option, as ICANN does not accept reservations or pre-registrations based on trademarks. This means you won't be able to secure your trademark as a gTLD until the application process opens.

The application process for gTLDs will be different from previous rounds, and ICANN is working to educate the community on their responsibilities and the formal objection mechanism before the program launches.

ICANN will publish the list of all applications received after the application submission period closes, so you'll have a clear idea of who's applying for which gTLDs.

Companies can claim brand-specific gTLDs, such as ".apple" or ".canon", which will be used solely by the registrant and not allow third parties to acquire second level domain names.

There are no restrictions on organizations registering general gTLDs, and companies can choose to register a general term instead of their brand name, like one trucking company registering ".trucks" for its own use.

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ICANN will post the public portions of all applications on their website approximately 2 weeks after the close of the application window.

During this time, the formal objection period will begin and will last for approximately 7 months. This is the time frame in which you can object to an application.

You can file a formal objection using pre-established Dispute Resolution Procedures (DRP) on any of the following grounds: string confusion, legal rights, community, or limited public interest.

ICANN will not administer objections in all but exceptional circumstances, instead, they will be handled by independent Dispute Resolution Service Providers (DRSP).

Here are the grounds for objection in a quick reference list:

In addition to these grounds, the GAC may also submit formal advice to ICANN on any application that they identify as problematic. This advice is intended to address applications that potentially violate national law or raise sensitivities.

After a new gTLD application is approved, the applicant must execute a registry agreement with ICANN and pass technical pre-delegation tests before the new gTLD can be delegated to the root zone.

Once approved, the applicant is required to sign a New gTLD Agreement with ICANN, which includes two ongoing fees: a fixed fee of US$6,250 per calendar quarter, and a transaction fee of US$0.25. However, the transaction fee only applies if more than 50,000 transactions occur in the TLD during any calendar quarter or any four calendar quarter period.

ICANN will only enter into an agreement with the applicant, not with a third party designating another registry operator. This means that if you're planning to apply for a new gTLD, you'll need to work directly with ICANN to establish your registry agreement.

The new gTLD program was launched by ICANN in 2012 to diversify the supply of domain extensions on the Internet.

Over 1900 applications for new extensions were received, and ICANN approved over 1200, which have significantly transformed the Internet over the past decade.

Some popular examples of new gTLDs that have become very popular are .xyz, .online, .top, .site, and .shop.

Not all approved new gTLDs are open for registration, some are restricted to use by certain niches or even just by one company, like .google and .bmw.

The Internet will only continue to expand, leading to a growing need for more domain options.

ICANN's new gTLD program has led to a significant increase in the number of generic top-level domains, with many well-known domains like .com, .org, and .net being part of this group.

Historically, the number of gTLDs on the Internet has been low compared to country code top-level domains (ccTLDs), such as .nl and .de.

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Historically, businesses acquired rights to second-level domain names like "www.amazon.com" because they couldn't claim a unique generic top-level domain (gTLD).

A domain name consists of a second-level domain name followed by a top-level domain (TLD), which can be either a generic TLD like ".com" or a country code TLD like ".uk".

Every domain name ends with a TLD, which are the 2 or more letters that come after the dot, and can be either a gTLD or a ccTLD.

A gTLD or a ccTLD is managed by a registry operator, an organization that maintains the registry database, including the nameserver information for names registered in the TLD.

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When it comes to understanding domain names, it's essential to grasp the basics of what makes them up. Every domain name ends with a top-level domain (TLD), which are the 2 or more letters that come after the dot.

A TLD can be either generic or country code. There are two types of TLDs: generic top-level domains (gTLDs) such as .com, .mobi, and .info, and country code top-level domains (ccTLDs) such as .uk, .br, and .cn.

These TLDs are managed by a registry operator, an organization that maintains the registry database, including the nameserver information for names registered in the TLD.

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Domain names are made up of multiple levels, with the highest level being the top-level domain (TLD). Registry operators must use only ICANN accredited registrars in registering domain names.

Historically, businesses would acquire a second-level domain name, such as "www.amazon.com". This means the company name is used after the TLD.

Businesses can now claim a customized gTLD, such as ".amazon", which allows them to create a unique domain name structure. For example, Amazon can use "www.home.amazon" as its homepage.

To register a gTLD, a registry operator must become an ICANN accredited registrar. This allows them to issue domain names and use their company name as the gTLD itself.

Claiming a new gTLD for your brand can increase opportunities to promote it and potentially boost internet traffic.

The major expenses involved include initial and ongoing registration costs, technical maintenance, and administration fees.

These costs require a significant financial commitment and time investment, which can be a major drawback.

The benefits of a brand-specific gTLD include increased prestige and control over your website, which can help prevent fraud or misuse.

In some industries, controlling a gTLD can be advantageous, allowing you to assign second-level domain names to related parties, such as subsidiaries or franchisees.

Ongoing fees after ICANN approval can be a significant consideration for companies pursuing a gTLD. The fixed fee is $6,250 per calendar quarter. This fee is a non-negotiable part of the New gTLD Agreement with ICANN.

To give you a better idea of what these fees look like, let's break them down. There are two types of fees: a fixed fee and a transaction fee. The fixed fee is $6,250 per calendar quarter, and the transaction fee is $0.25 per transaction. However, the transaction fee only kicks in once more than 50,000 transactions have occurred in the TLD during any calendar quarter or four calendar quarter period.

It's essential to understand that these fees are ongoing and can add up quickly. To help you plan, here's a summary of the fees:

Keep in mind that these fees are in addition to the initial registration fee, which can be as high as $185,000. It's crucial to factor these ongoing expenses into your budget and business plan before pursuing a gTLD.

Registering a name can be a costly and time-consuming process, especially if you're looking to register a top-level domain name (TLD). The initial fee for registration is a whopping $185,000, which is often nonrefundable.

This fee is just the beginning, as there are ongoing fees of at least $25,000 per year thereafter. You'll also need to provide evidence of your technical and financial capabilities to run a TLD.

The application process is lengthy and requires a lot of documentation, with a 352-page "Guidebook" published by ICANN that you'll need to follow. You'll need to submit materials that demonstrate your ability to run a TLD, including registering others to use second-level domain names under your TLD.

Applications for new gTLDs will be accepted for a limited period of time, from January 12, 2012 to April 12, 2012, with later rounds expected in later years. ICANN anticipates receiving 300 to 1,000 applications during this initial application period.

Be wary of anyone who claims to be able to reserve your place in line for a second-level registration, as it's not possible to predict which TLDs will be available. The new TLD operator may choose not to sell second-level registrations, so it's best to wait until the actual registration period begins.

Registration can be a complex and costly process, but it has its benefits.

The major expected benefits of registration include increased opportunities to promote your brand and potentially increase internet traffic.

Having a customized name can give your brand significant prestige and help you stand out.

As a registry holder, you'll have more control over your website, which can help prevent fraud or misuse.

This control can also be beneficial in certain industries, where you can assign second-level domain names to related parties, such as subsidiaries or franchisees.

However, the expenses required for registration, technical maintenance, and administration can be a significant drawback.

Undertaking registration requires a major financial and time commitment, which can be daunting.

The unfamiliarity of the public with new gTLDs can also be a potential downside, at least initially.

Customers may struggle to find your website if you switch to a custom gTLD, as they may not know what address to enter.

But, as the authors note, standard naming conventions will likely evolve to resolve some of this confusion in the future.

".brand" applications are not an official application type in the Applicant Guidebook.

They must still comply with all requirements specified in the Applicant Guidebook.

Openprovider offers an impressive selection of new gTLDs, with over 1,900 choices already available. This is a significant advantage for domain resellers who want to offer their customers a wide range of options.

With such a vast portfolio, resellers can cater to diverse needs and preferences, increasing the chances of finding the perfect domain name for their customers. Openprovider's extensive collection of new gTLDs makes it an attractive partner for resellers.

By partnering with Openprovider, resellers can provide their customers with access to over 1,900 TLDs, including all new gTLDs that are open for general use. This collaboration can lead to a more satisfying customer experience and a competitive edge in the market.

Independent, third-party, expert panels will evaluate gTLD applications against criteria and requirements outlined in the Applicant Guidebook.

These panels will carefully review each application to ensure it meets the necessary standards. The costs of this evaluation process are not yet known, but cost will be a key factor in selecting the service provider.

Independent, third-party, expert panels will evaluate gTLD applications against criteria and requirements outlined in the Applicant Guidebook.

These panels will thoroughly assess each application to ensure it meets the necessary standards.

The costs of this evaluation process are not currently known, but cost will be a key component in determining the appropriate service provider.

ICANN is planning to open a new application window, called The New gTLD Program: Next Round, in Q2 of 2026.

This new application window will give businesses, communities, and others the opportunity to apply for new top-level domains tailored to their community, culture, language, business, and customers.

The next round of the new gTLD program aims to create a more multilingual and inclusive Internet for the billions of people who speak and write in different languages and scripts and are yet to come online.

Businesses in countries, entire sectors, or niche markets will be able to develop a unique label on the Internet through this new application window.

ICANN sees this as a great opportunity to expand the Internet's inclusivity and diversity.

Country and generic names are not available under the New gTLD Program.

Applications for strings that are country or territory names will not be approved.

However, a community priority evaluation may occur as a result of string contention, where an applicant meets the threshold score of 14 according to the criteria in Module 4 of the Applicant Guidebook.

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You can't apply for a country name under the New gTLD Program.

Applications for strings that are country or territory names won't be approved, as they're not available under the New gTLD Program.

Community priority evaluation may occur in cases of string contention, where an applicant meets the threshold score of 14 according to the criteria in Module 4 of the Applicant Guidebook.

A disclaimer must appear in a prominent position on the translated version, stating that the document is an unofficial translation not produced by or endorsed by ICANN, and providing a link to the original and authoritative text in English.

Companies can register general gTLDs, such as ".trucks", which will allow its members to acquire second level domain names under that gTLD.

The American Trucking Association, a trade group, could be an example of a neutral organization that registers a general gTLD for its members.

One company in an industry may find it more advantageous to register a general term instead of its brand name, like a trucking company registering ".trucks" for its own use.

Enterprising companies may also register a general gTLD with the goal of making money by getting others to pay fees to acquire second level domain names under the gTLD.

There are some limited safeguards against an individual company registering a name that represents an entire group if that company is not truly representative of the group.

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Registry operators must use only ICANN accredited registrars in registering domain names. This means that if a registry operator wants to issue domain names, it must become an ICANN accredited registrar.

The structure of domain names has historically been a second-level domain name under a gTLD, such as "www.amazon.com." However, with the new gTLDs, businesses will soon have the opportunity to claim a customized gTLD, such as ".amazon."

The Internet has a fascinating history, and one of the most significant changes in recent years has been the introduction of new generic top-level domains (gTLDs).

The Internet has always had a limited number of gTLDs, which has led to a shortage of options for website owners. ICANN launched the new gTLD program in 2012 to address this issue.

Over 1900 applications for new extensions were received, and ICANN approved over 1200, significantly transforming the Internet over the past decade.

Some popular new gTLDs include .xyz, .online, .top, .site, and .shop, which have become very popular among website owners.

Not all approved new gTLDs are open for registration, with some being restricted to specific niches or even just one company.

The New gTLD Program is predicted to open in April 2026 and stay open for around 12-15 weeks.

Organizations applying to the program must show they have both technical and financial ability to run their own registry.

The application fee for the program will likely be quite high, and the exact fee has not yet been determined, but as a reference, the 2012 round's fee was $185,000.

New gTLDs are currently accepted in 26 different scripts, including Arabic, Chinese, Cyrillic, and many others.

Applications for new gTLDs in an unsupported script are allowed if the script has common and widespread use, but the application will be put on hold until a proposal is developed.