Anyone can register a .nl domain. There are no restrictions in place, and it is not necessary to be a Dutch citizen or to reside in the Netherlands.

You can only register a .nl domain for an initial period of one year. After this year has passed, you will need to renew your domain. It is not possible to register this domain for multiple years in advance.

Simply use the domain search bar at the top of this page and enter the name of your choice. A new window will open, and you will immediately see if the name you want is still free. If the name of your choice is not available, our system will automatically show you some options that are still free instead.

Yes, this is possible for this extension. You can enable this option when you purchase a domain through the Openprovider control panel.

You can easily renew your domain through the Openprovider control panel. You will receive multiple reminders by email when your domain is due to be renewed. Another option is to turn on the auto-renew feature in the control panel, which ensures that your domain is automatically renewed as long as you have sufficient balance on your account.

.nl domain names should be between 2-63 characters in length. They may contain letters (a-z), numbers (0-9) and hyphens. Internationalized domain names are not supported.

Your .nl domain will be renewed automatically if you have the auto-renew feature turned on and if you have enough balance in your account. If your domain is expired, you have 38 days to restore your domain at an additional fee before it is deleted.

A .nl domain is the country-code top-level domain (ccTLD) specifically designated for the Netherlands. Introduced in 1986, it is one of the oldest and most established ccTLDs in the domain name system. Managed by SIDN (Stichting Internet Domeinregistratie Nederland), the .nl domain is widely used by businesses, organisations, and individuals looking to establish an online presence within the Dutch market.
The .nl domain name signifies a strong connection to the Netherlands, making it an ideal choice for companies targeting Dutch consumers or aiming to build trust with a local audience. Additionally, due to its long history and widespread use, a .nl domain can enhance your site’s credibility and improve search engine rankings within the region. Whether you are a Dutch business or an international entity seeking a foothold in the Netherlands, a .nl domain offers a valuable digital asset.

The .nl domain was introduced in 1986, making it one of the earliest country-code top-level domains (ccTLDs) to be established. The pioneering .nl domain was registered by Piet Beertema at the Centre for Mathematics and Computer Science (CWI) in Amsterdam. This marked the beginning of an era where the Netherlands would become a significant player in the global internet landscape.

Since its inception, the .nl domain has grown tremendously in popularity, reflecting the increasing digitalisation of Dutch society and the economy. Over the decades, the number of domains registered has surged, including second-level and third-level domains, although personal domains were discontinued due to low registration numbers. The management of .nl domains has been overseen by SIDN (Stichting Internet Domeinregistratie Nederland), ensuring secure and efficient registration processes. Today, there are millions of .nl domains in existence, making it one of the most popular ccTLDs worldwide. The strong heritage and widespread adoption of .nl domains underscore their importance in establishing a credible and localised online presence in the Netherlands.

Opting for a .nl domain offers several compelling advantages, especially for both large enterprises and small businesses targeting the Dutch market. Firstly, a .nl domain signifies a strong local presence, which can foster trust and credibility among Dutch consumers. This localised appeal is crucial for businesses aiming to build relationships with their audience in the Netherlands.
Secondly, search engines like Google tend to prioritise local domains in their regional search results. Therefore, a .nl domain can enhance your website’s visibility and ranking within the Netherlands, driving more organic traffic from local users.
Moreover, .nl domains benefit from the robust infrastructure and security measures provided by SIDN, ensuring reliable performance and protection against cyber threats. This makes .nl domains a secure choice for both businesses and individuals.
Lastly, with millions of .nl domains already registered, being part of this established and trusted domain community can lend additional credibility to your online presence. Whether you’re a local business or an international entity, a .nl domain can be a valuable asset in your digital strategy.

Local SEO Advantages

One of the primary benefits of using a .nl domain is the significant boost it provides to local search engine optimisation (SEO). Search engines like Google use various signals to determine the relevance of a website for a specific region. A .nl domain is a strong indicator that your site is relevant to users in the Netherlands. This can lead to higher rankings in local search results, driving more targeted traffic to your website. Additionally, local customers often prefer to click on domains that they recognise as local. Dutch internet users have a strong preference for nl domain names, which can therefore increase click-through rates from Dutch users, improving your site’s overall performance. Moreover, having a .nl domain can simplify your local SEO strategy. It eliminates the need for complex geo-targeting settings, as the domain itself inherently signals your target location. This makes it easier to implement effective SEO tactics and achieve better visibility in the Dutch market.

Trust and Credibility

A .nl domain can significantly enhance your website's trust and credibility, especially among Dutch users. When visitors see a .nl extension, they immediately recognise it as a local domain, which can make them more inclined to trust the site. This is particularly important for businesses that rely on customer trust, such as e-commerce sites and service providers. Furthermore, the .nl domain is managed by SIDN, which implements strict registration and security protocols. This ensures that .nl domains are less susceptible to cyber threats, adding an extra layer of credibility to your site. For businesses operating in the Netherlands, a .nl domain signals a commitment to serving the local market. This local focus can be a decisive factor for consumers when choosing between different service providers or products. Thus, a .nl domain not only boosts your site's credibility but also aligns your brand with the preferences and expectations of Dutch customers.

Targeting Dutch Audience

Using a .nl domain is an effective way to target the Dutch audience. When users see a .nl domain, they immediately understand that the site is tailored to their region, which can make them more likely to engage with your content or services. This local relevance is crucial for businesses looking to establish a strong presence in the Netherlands. A .nl domain also signals that your business understands and respects the local culture and market. This can be particularly advantageous for marketing campaigns, as localised content often resonates better with the audience.
Moreover, a .nl domain can support your efforts in localisation beyond just the domain name. It encourages the use of Dutch language and local content, which can further improve user experience and engagement. For businesses aiming to build long-term relationships with Dutch consumers, a .nl domain is a strategic asset that aligns your online presence with local expectations and preferences.

Choosing a Registrar

Selecting the right registrar is a critical step in registering a .nl domain. A registrar is an accredited organisation authorised to manage the reservation of internet domain names. When choosing a registrar for your .nl domain, consider factors such as reputation, customer service, and pricing.
Firstly, ensure the registrar is accredited by SIDN, the official registry for .nl domains. This guarantees that the registrar complies with the necessary regulations and standards. You can find a list of accredited registrars on SIDN's official website.
Customer service is another vital aspect. Opt for a registrar that offers reliable support channels, such as live chat, email, and phone support. This can be invaluable if you encounter issues during the registration process or need assistance managing your domain.
Lastly, compare pricing and additional features. Some registrars offer bundled services like web hosting, SSL certificates, and email accounts, which can be cost-effective. Weigh these factors carefully to select a registrar that best suits your needs and budget.

Registration Requirements

Registering a .nl domain is a straightforward process, but it does come with specific requirements that need to be met. Firstly, any individual or organisation can register a .nl domain, regardless of their location. This means you do not need to be a resident of the Netherlands to secure a .nl domain.
However, you must provide accurate and up-to-date contact information during the registration process. This typically includes your name, address, phone number, and email address. The registrar may verify this information to ensure its authenticity.
Additionally, there are certain technical requirements. Your domain must be linked to at least two functional name servers. These servers ensure that your domain can be found on the internet. Some registrars offer DNS management services to help you meet these technical criteria.
Lastly, it is essential to comply with SIDN's terms and conditions, which outline the rules for using a .nl domain. Adhering to these requirements ensures that your domain remains active and in good standing.

Costs and Renewals

The cost of registering a .nl domain can vary depending on the registrar you choose. Generally, initial registration fees range from €5 to €20 per year. Some registrars may offer promotions or discounts for the first year, so it's worth shopping around to find the best deal.
In addition to the initial registration fee, you will need to consider the cost of renewing your domain. Renewal fees are typically in the same range as the initial registration but can vary. Some registrars offer multi-year registration options, which can lock in a lower rate and save you the hassle of annual renewals.
It's also important to be aware of any additional costs that might arise. For instance, services such as DNS management, privacy protection, and email hosting can incur extra fees.
Timely renewal is crucial to avoid losing your domain. Most registrars provide automated renewal options and reminders, ensuring that your .nl domain remains active without interruption.

DNS settings

Managing the DNS settings of your .nl domain is crucial for ensuring your website is accessible and functions correctly. DNS (Domain Name System) settings translate your domain name into an IP address, allowing browsers to locate your website. This relationship between domain names and IP addresses is fundamental to how the internet functions.
To get started, log in to your registrar’s control panel and navigate to the DNS management section. Here, you can configure various DNS records such as A records, CNAME records, MX records, and TXT records.
The A record maps your domain to an IP address, while CNAME records are used to alias one name to another. MX records handle email routing, and TXT records can include additional information like verification details for services such as Google Workspace.
It’s essential to ensure that your DNS settings are correctly configured to avoid downtime or accessibility issues. Many registrars offer tutorials and customer support to assist you in managing your DNS settings effectively. Regularly review and update these settings as needed to keep your website running smoothly.

Domain privacy

Ensuring domain privacy is an important aspect of managing your .nl domain. When you register a domain, your contact information, including your name, address, and email, is stored in a public database called WHOIS. This information can be accessed by anyone, potentially exposing you to spam or identity theft. Many registrars offer a domain privacy service, which masks your personal information in the WHOIS database. Instead of your details, the registrar's contact information is displayed, protecting your privacy.
While SIDN, the registry for .nl domains, enforces certain data protection measures, opting for additional domain privacy services can offer an extra layer of security. This is particularly beneficial for individuals and businesses concerned about unsolicited contact or data misuse.
Implementing domain privacy is straightforward. Most registrars provide this service as an add-on during the registration process or you can activate it later through your account settings. Investing in domain privacy ensures that your personal information remains secure, giving you peace of mind.

Transferring ownership

Transferring ownership of a .nl domain is a straightforward process but requires careful attention to detail. Whether you're selling the domain or transferring it to another individual or organisation, the process involves several key steps. First, ensure that the domain is unlocked. Domains that are locked cannot be transferred. You can unlock your domain through your registrar's control panel. Next, you'll need an authorisation code (also known as an EPP code) from your current registrar. This code is required to initiate the transfer process with the new registrar. The new owner must then submit a transfer request with their chosen registrar, providing the authorisation code. Both parties may need to confirm the transfer via email or other verification methods. It's important to note that transferring a .nl domain usually incurs a fee, and the transfer process can take a few days to complete. Once the transfer is finalised, the new owner will have full control over the domain, including the ability to manage DNS settings and renewals.

Domain disputes

Domain disputes can arise for various reasons, such as trademark infringement or cybersquatting. If you find yourself involved in a dispute over a .nl domain, it's important to understand the available resolution mechanisms. SIDN, the registry for .nl domains, has established a dispute resolution policy known as the Domain Name Dispute Resolution Regulations (Regeling voor de beslechting van domeinnaamgeschillen, or “Regeling”). This policy provides a framework for resolving disputes quickly and cost-effectively. To initiate a dispute, you must file a complaint with an accredited dispute resolution provider. The complaint should detail the basis of the dispute, such as evidence of trademark infringement or bad faith registration. An independent panel will then review the case and make a decision. If the panel rules in your favour, the domain may be cancelled, suspended, or transferred to you. Resolving domain disputes through this regulated process can help protect your rights and ensure fair outcomes without resorting to lengthy and expensive court proceedings.

Expiration and renewal problems

Expiration and renewal problems can be a major issue for .nl domain owners. If you fail to renew your domain on time, it can expire, leading to potential downtime for your website and email services. Moreover, once expired, your domain could be acquired by someone else, posing a significant risk to your online presence. To avoid these problems, it's crucial to keep track of your domain's expiration date and renew it well in advance. Most registrars offer automatic renewal services, which can be a convenient way to ensure your domain remains active. Enabling this feature means your domain will be renewed automatically, provided your payment information is up to date.
If your domain does expire, most registrars have a grace period during which you can still renew it without losing ownership. However, this period is limited, so it's essential to act quickly. Regularly updating your contact information with the registrar ensures you receive important renewal reminders, helping you avoid expiration and related issues.

Technical support and resources

Access to reliable technical support and resources is essential for managing your .nl domain effectively. Most reputable registrars offer a range of support options, including live chat, email, and phone support, to assist you with any issues you may encounter.
When choosing a registrar, consider the quality of their customer service. Look for registrars that provide 24/7 support and have a good reputation for resolving issues promptly. Reading customer reviews can offer valuable insights into the level of support you can expect.
Additionally, many registrars provide extensive knowledge bases and tutorials to help you manage your domain. These resources can guide you through common tasks like updating DNS settings, transferring ownership, and renewing your domain.
If you encounter more complex issues, some registrars offer premium support services for a fee. These services can provide personalised assistance, ensuring that your domain management processes run smoothly. Having access to reliable technical support and resources can significantly reduce downtime and maintain the functionality of your .nl domain.