.to Domain Names Overview
The .to domain extension is the country code top-level domain (ccTLD) for the Kingdom of Tonga, a Polynesian sovereign state in Oceania. Despite its geographic association, .to domains are open for registration by individuals and businesses worldwide without requiring a local presence in Tonga. The extension has gained popularity due to its short and memorable nature, making it appealing for creative branding, URL shortening services, and tech startups. Registration terms range from 1 to 10 years, with processing typically completed within a few hours. The domain length can be between 1 and 63 characters, but internationalized domain names (IDNs) are not supported. The .to domain is managed by the Tonga Network Information Center (Tonic), which ensures compliance with registration policies.
.to Domain Names Facts
The .to domain does not require a company registration or VAT number, making it accessible to individuals and legal entities alike. Unlike some ccTLDs, there is no need for an admin contact individual, and prior rights (such as trademarks) are not mandatory for registration. However, registrants must ensure their domain does not violate third-party rights or Tonga’s cultural, religious, or social values. Offensive or trademark-infringing names may be rejected. Sub-domains are not permitted, and the transfer process requires an authcode. Renewals can be done for 1 to 10 years, with a 30-day grace period for late renewals. Domain restoration is not available, but early deletion is permitted if needed.
.to Domain Names Uses
The .to domain is versatile and often used for branding, marketing, and niche websites. Its short and catchy nature makes it ideal for URL shorteners, redirect services, and memorable web addresses. Tech companies and startups frequently choose .to domains for their modern appeal, while bloggers and content creators use them for personal branding. Additionally, some businesses leverage .to domains for geo-targeting in Oceania, though this is less common due to its global accessibility. The lack of strict registration requirements allows for creative domain hacks, such as combining words with the extension (e.g., “go.to”). However, registrants should always ensure their domain aligns with Tonga’s cultural and legal guidelines to avoid disputes.
Frequently Asked Questions for .to Domains
What is a .to domain name?
A .to domain name is the country code top-level domain (ccTLD) for Tonga, but it is open for global registration. It is popular for its brevity and flexibility, often used for branding, URL shortening, and tech-related projects. Unlike some ccTLDs, it does not require a local presence or business documentation, making it accessible to individuals and organizations worldwide.
How do I buy a .to domain name?
To buy a .to domain, choose a registrar that offers the extension and check the availability of your desired name. The registration process is straightforward, requiring no special documents or local presence. You can register the domain for 1 to 10 years, and the process typically completes within a few hours. Payment is usually made upfront, and the domain becomes active once processed.
Are there requirements for .to domain name registration?
There are no strict requirements for .to domain registration, such as a local presence or company details. However, registrants must ensure the domain does not infringe on trademarks or violate Tonga’s cultural, religious, or social values. Offensive or inappropriate names may be rejected. The domain length must be between 1 and 63 characters, and IDNs are not supported.
.to Registry Rules and Policies
You consent to be bound by the Registry's Terms and Conditions by registering a .to 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.