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New gTLDs — Frequently Asked Questions
Last Updated 8 May 2007
1. What is a gTLD?
gTLD stands for generic top-level domain. gTLDs are part of the structure of the Internet’s domain-name system (DNS). Each of the generic TLDs was created for a general category of organizations (see RFC 1591). Examples of gTLDs are .EDU, .JOBS, and .COM. A complete list of existing gTLDs is available at http://www.iana.org/gtld/gtld.htm. The responsibility for operating each gTLD (including maintaining a registry of the domain names within the gTLD) is delegated to a particular organization. These organizations are referred to as "registry operators" or "sponsors."
ccTLDs (country-code top-level domains) are also part of the DNS structure. ccTLDs are top-level domains which have been established for over 240 countries and territories (for example, .ZA, .AU, .FR). A listing of existing ccTLDs is available at http://www.iana.org/root-whois/index.html.
2. How are gTLDs established?
New gTLDs have previously been established based on proposals that were submitted to ICANN during specific application periods. Materials from the previous application processes are available at http://www.icann.org/tlds/app-index.htm (2000) and http://www.icann.org/tlds/stld-apps-19mar04/ (2003-4). Applications received during these rounds were evaluated against previously-published criteria, and those applicants who were successful went on to sign TLD Registry Agreements with ICANN.
3. How do I apply for a new gTLD?
There is no gTLD application process open at this time, but work is underway to lead to announcement of a new gTLD application round. A policy development process (see below) is in progress with the aim of creating a standing policy that will guide future introduction of new gTLDs. You can find more information on this process at http://www.icann.org/topics/gtld-strategy-area.html. When this process is complete and a policy has been adopted, ICANN will be able to initiate a new gTLD application process.
4. When will I be able to apply for a new gTLD and how long does the process take?
No dates for a new gTLD application process have been established at this time. The time frame for this is dependent on the outcome of the policy development process mentioned above. There will be an extended period of outreach and information sharing prior to any new round to ensure that potential applicants have all the information they need.
Detailed application information will be published prior to the application round opening, and timeframes for the application process will be available at that time.
5. How will gTLD applications be assessed?
A detailed request for proposal (RFP) will be published prior to commencement of any application period. The RFP will provide complete applicant and string criteria requirements, and applications will be assessed against these published criteria. See also the GNSO’s policy development documents for background on draft recommendations in regard to criteria.
6. I have an idea for a new gTLD. Can I register my idea with ICANN in advance of the next application period?
No. ICANN will accept submissions only during an open application period.
7. How much is the application fee?
The application fee will be published as part of the RFP. The RFP is currently in development and thus fee information is not yet available. As a general guide, the fee will be set at a level which enables the full recovery of costs associated with running the application process.
8. Does this application process cover new ccTLDs also?
No. Information on procedures for establishing ccTLDs is available at http://www.iana.org/cctld/cctld-establishment-procedures-19mar03.htm. However, anyone, including ccTLD operators, may apply to operate a new gTLD.
9. Can applicants who were not selected in previous rounds re-apply in future rounds?
Yes.
10. Will applicants who participated in the previous gTLD application processes receive special treatment in future rounds?
No. All applications submitted will receive the same level of scrutiny. See also http://www.icann.org/correspondence/schwartz-to-hemphill-24jan07.pdf.
11. Will applicants operating alternate root systems be given preferential treatment in future rounds?
No. All applicants in a potential future application process would be equally eligible for a particular TLD string. ICANN is committed to a single, authoritative public root for the DNS and to the management of that unique root in the public interest according to policies developed through community processes. Please see ICP-3 for a detailed statement of ICANN’s position on alternate roots.
12. How does the policy development process work?
The Generic Names Supporting Organization (GNSO) is responsible for creating policy applicable to gTLDs. The GNSO’s constituencies and Council members work to arrive at consensus policy recommendations which, if adopted by the GNSO Council, are passed on to the ICANN Board of Directors. If approved by the Board, the policy is adopted and implemented by staff.
The GNSO Policy Development Process (PDP) is formally defined in the ICANN Bylaws (see http://www.icann.org/general/bylaws.htm#AnnexA).
13. How can I participate in the policy development process?
The GNSO contains six constituencies. To get involved in one of these groups, see the links below or http://gnso.icann.org.
Other groups within the ICANN community also provide input into the GNSO’s process from specific perspectives, including those of individual users, governments, and technical experts. See http://www.icann.org/structure/ for additional information on ICANN’s structure.
Additionally, the GNSO frequently requests general input and submissions from the community as part of its deliberations. For more information, see http://gnso.icann.org/issues/new-gtlds/.
14. How can I get updates on the GNSO policy development process?
The GNSO’s page on new gTLDs is at http://gnso.icann.org/issues/new-gtlds/. You can also sign up for general ICANN updates at http://www.icann.org/communications/newsletter.html.
15. What is the process for submitting questions about new gTLDs?
ICANN encourages community inquiries on the gTLD process and questions may be sent to newgtld@icann.org. Questions and answers will be posted to this FAQ, which can be viewed at http://www.icann.org/topics/new-gtld-strategy-faq.htm.