.gw Domain Names Overview
The .gw domain extension is the country code top-level domain (ccTLD) for Guinea-Bissau, a small West African nation. While not as widely recognized as other ccTLDs, .gw domains are primarily used by businesses, organizations, and individuals with ties to Guinea-Bissau. The registration process for a .gw domain requires prior rights, meaning the domain must match an existing trademark or company name. This ensures legitimacy and reduces cybersquatting. The registration term is set at two years, and the domain length can range from 2 to 63 characters, allowing flexibility in naming. Domains with special characters, such as à, é, or ç, are permitted, making it accessible for local language use. The processing time for registration is approximately 10 days, and a company registration or VAT number is required for verification.
.gw Domain Names Facts
.gw domains are unique in their requirement for prior rights, ensuring that registrants have a legitimate claim to the domain name. This can be based on a trademark or an existing company name. Unlike some ccTLDs, .gw does not mandate local presence, allowing international entities to register. The domain supports internationalized domain names (IDNs), accommodating special characters common in Portuguese, the official language of Guinea-Bissau. The registration and renewal terms are fixed at two years, with no option for early deletion or late renewal. Transfers require an authcode, and owner changes necessitate contacting Domgate, the registry operator. Documents such as a trademark certificate may be required during registration, depending on the basis of the prior rights claim. The domain cannot be restored once expired, emphasizing the importance of timely renewals.
.gw Domain Names Uses
.gw domains are ideal for businesses and organizations operating in or targeting Guinea-Bissau. They provide a localized online presence, fostering trust among local customers. Companies with trademarks or registered names can secure their brand identity with a .gw domain, preventing unauthorized use. The allowance for special characters makes it suitable for Portuguese-language websites, aligning with the country’s linguistic context. Non-profit organizations and government entities can also use .gw domains to establish credibility and authority. While not as globally recognized as .com or .org, a .gw domain signals a strong connection to Guinea-Bissau, which can be advantageous for regional marketing. The two-year registration term offers stability, and the requirement for prior rights ensures a more secure and legitimate domain space. Overall, .gw domains serve as a niche but valuable tool for entities with ties to Guinea-Bissau.
Frequently Asked Questions for .gw Domains
What is a .gw domain name?
A .gw domain name is the country code top-level domain (ccTLD) for Guinea-Bissau. It is used by businesses, organizations, and individuals with a connection to the country. The domain requires prior rights, meaning it must match an existing trademark or company name. This ensures legitimacy and reduces fraudulent registrations. .gw domains support special characters, making them suitable for Portuguese-language websites. The registration term is two years, and the domain length can range from 2 to 63 characters. While local presence is not required, a company registration or VAT number is necessary for verification. The processing time for registration is approximately 10 days.
How do I buy a .gw domain name?
To buy a .gw domain name, you must first ensure you have prior rights, such as a trademark or company name matching the desired domain. Next, choose a registrar that offers .gw domains and check the availability of your preferred name. Submit the required documents, such as a trademark certificate if applicable, and provide your company registration or VAT number for verification. The registration process takes about 10 days to complete. Once approved, the domain is registered for a two-year term. Renewals also follow a two-year cycle, and there is no option for late renewal or restoration after expiration. Transfers require an authcode, and owner changes must be processed through Domgate.
Are there requirements for .gw domain name registration?
Yes, there are specific requirements for registering a .gw domain name. The domain must match prior rights, such as a trademark or company name. If based on a trademark, a copy of the trademark certificate is required. For company names, no additional documents are needed beyond the company registration or VAT number. The registrant can be an individual or a legal entity, but the admin contact does not need to be an individual. The domain length must be between 2 and 63 characters, and special characters are allowed. The registration term is two years, and the processing time is approximately 10 days. There is no local presence requirement, making it accessible to international registrants. However, once registered, the domain cannot be restored if it expires, and there is no option for early deletion.
.gw Registry Rules and Policies
You consent to be bound by the Registry's Terms and Conditions by registering a .gw 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.