.ci Domain Names Overview
The .ci domain extension is the country code top-level domain (ccTLD) for Ivory Coast, a nation located in West Africa. This domain is managed by the Network Information Center (NIC) of Ivory Coast and is available for registration by legal entities, including businesses and organizations. Unlike some ccTLDs, the .ci domain does not require local presence, making it accessible to international registrants. The registration term is one year, and the domain length can range from 2 to 63 characters. Sub-domains such as .co.ci and .com.ci are also available, providing additional options for branding and categorization. The processing time for registration is typically two days, and no company registration or VAT number is required. However, only legal entities can register a .ci domain, and individual registrations are not permitted.
.ci Domain Names Facts
The .ci domain extension was introduced to represent Ivory Coast on the internet and is governed by the NIC of Ivory Coast. One notable feature of .ci domains is that they do not support Internationalized Domain Names (IDNs), meaning only ASCII characters are allowed. The domain does not require prior rights or an application form for registration, simplifying the process for eligible entities. Transfers of .ci domains require an authcode, and the domain must be unlocked for the transfer to proceed. The expiration date does not change during a transfer, and owner changes can be done online without additional documentation. Renewals are also on a one-year term, and there are no provisions for late renewals, restorations, or early deletions. For more detailed policies, registrants can refer to the official NIC website.
.ci Domain Names Uses
.ci domains are primarily used by businesses, organizations, and institutions with ties to Ivory Coast, whether locally or internationally. Companies operating in Ivory Coast often use .ci domains to establish a local online presence, enhancing credibility and trust among customers. The .co.ci sub-domain is popular among commercial entities, while .com.ci is commonly used for general purposes. International businesses may also register .ci domains to protect their brand or target the Ivorian market. Educational institutions, government agencies, and non-profits can also benefit from a .ci domain to align their online identity with their geographic or operational focus. The absence of local presence requirements makes .ci domains attractive to global entities looking to expand their reach in West Africa.
Frequently Asked Questions for .ci Domains
What is a .ci domain name?
A .ci domain name is the country code top-level domain (ccTLD) for Ivory Coast. It is used by businesses, organizations, and institutions to establish an online presence tied to the country. The domain is managed by the NIC of Ivory Coast and is available for registration by legal entities only. Unlike some ccTLDs, .ci does not require local presence, making it accessible to international registrants. The domain supports standard ASCII characters and does not offer IDN support. Sub-domains like .co.ci and .com.ci are also available for specific use cases.
How do I buy a .ci domain name?
To buy a .ci domain name, you must first verify that you are a legal entity, as individual registrations are not permitted. You can register the domain through an accredited registrar or directly via the NIC of Ivory Coast. The registration process typically takes two days, and no company registration or VAT number is required. You will need to provide basic contact and organizational details during the registration process. Once registered, the domain is valid for one year and can be renewed annually. Transfers require an authcode, and the domain must be unlocked before initiating the transfer.
Are there requirements for .ci domain name registration?
Yes, there are specific requirements for registering a .ci domain name. Only legal entities, such as businesses or organizations, can register a .ci domain; individual registrations are not allowed. No local presence is required, making it accessible to international entities. The domain name must be between 2 and 63 characters long and can only include ASCII characters, as IDN support is not available. No prior rights or application forms are needed for registration. Additionally, no company registration or VAT number is required, simplifying the process for eligible registrants.
.ci Registry Rules and Policies
You consent to be bound by the Registry's Terms and Conditions by registering a .ci domain name. The registration, renewal, transfer, and use of domain names within this registry are governed by these terms. Before completing your registration, it is mandatory that you read these terms carefully. Please see our Registry Terms and Conditions for more details. Your domain name may be suspended or deleted without a refund if you don't follow these terms.