In order to register a .eu domain, you need to be a citizen or a resident of a EU or EEA country. Openprovider offers local presence services for domain registrants who do not meet this requirement.

.eu domains can be registered for an initial period of 1-10 years. After this period has passed, you will need to renew your domain.

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.

.eu domain names should be between 3-63 characters in length. They may contain letters (a-z), numbers (0-9) and hyphens. Internationalized domain names are supported for all official EU language scripts, including the Latin, Greek and Cyrillic scripts.

Your .eu 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 before it is deleted.

.eu domains are top-level domain (TLD) names specifically designated for entities within the European Union. Introduced in 2005, they serve as a pan-European alternative to country-specific domains like .fr for France or .de for Germany. Managed by EURid, a non-profit organisation appointed by the European Commission, .eu domains are available to residents, businesses, and organisations located within the EU. These domains can help establish a strong European identity online, indicating to users that the site operates within the EU’s regulatory framework. They are particularly beneficial for businesses seeking to emphasise their European presence, enhancing credibility and trust among EU consumers. By choosing a .eu domain, you align your digital identity with one of the world’s largest unified markets, potentially boosting your site’s appeal and relevance across the continent. Additionally, the eu extension offers various features and services related to registering and managing a .eu domain name, including language script variations, customer support, registration eligibility, security protocols, environmental policies, and additional services like website building and registration incentives.

The .eu domain was established to foster a digital identity for the European Union. The concept was first proposed in the late 1990s, with the aim of creating a unified online space that could represent the collective EU. Following extensive planning and negotiations, the European Commission officially approved the creation of the .eu TLD in 2002. Managed by EURid, the domain was launched on 7 December 2005. The initial registration phase, known as the ‘sunrise period’, allowed trademark holders and public bodies to secure their .eu domains before general availability. This period was crucial in ensuring that established European entities could claim their rightful online presence. Since its inception, eu domain names have grown in popularity, with millions of registrations across various sectors. It remains a significant digital asset for businesses and individuals aiming to highlight their European connections and bolster their regional credibility.

The importance of .eu domains lies in their ability to establish a distinctive European identity online. For businesses, a .eu domain signals a commitment to the European market, which can enhance trust and credibility among EU customers. Organizations and residents of EU member states, including Iceland, Liechtenstein, and Norway, are eligible to register for .eu domain names, demonstrating compliance with EU regulations, which can be particularly appealing to consumers concerned about data protection and privacy. Additionally, .eu domains can be a strategic asset for SEO, as search engines may favour localised domain extensions for region-specific searches. This can improve visibility and search rankings within the EU. For individuals, a .eu domain can reflect a strong connection to Europe, whether for personal branding or regional advocacy. Overall, .eu domains offer a valuable tool for anyone looking to strengthen their online presence within the European context, making it easier to connect with the diverse and expansive EU audience.

Trust and credibility

Using a .eu domain can significantly boost trust and credibility for your online presence. Firstly, it implies that your business or organisation is based in, or operates within, the European Union, adhering to its stringent regulatory standards. This can be particularly reassuring for customers concerned about data protection and privacy, given the EU's robust GDPR regulations. Furthermore, a .eu domain indicates a commitment to the European market, which can enhance your reputation among EU consumers. It also sets you apart from competitors using generic domain extensions, signalling a more localised and trustworthy presence. This regional focus can be a deciding factor for customers choosing between you and a non-EU competitor. Additionally, .eu domains are managed by EURid, a reputable and non-profit organisation, adding an extra layer of reliability. In essence, a .eu domain can help establish a strong, trustworthy brand image within the European Union.

Enhanced SEO benefits

One of the key advantages of .eu domains lies in their potential to enhance your site's SEO. Search engines often prioritise localised domain extensions for region-specific queries, meaning a .eu domain can improve your visibility and rankings within the European market. This is particularly beneficial for businesses targeting EU customers, as your site is more likely to appear in relevant search results. Additionally, a .eu domain signals to search engines that your content is tailored for a European audience, which can further boost relevance and authority in the region. This localised SEO advantage can lead to increased organic traffic from European users, driving more potential customers to your site. Moreover, a .eu domain can complement your broader SEO strategy by aligning your digital identity with a specific, high-value market. Overall, .eu domains offer a strategic edge for improving your site's search engine performance within the European Union.

Regional targeting

Regional targeting is a crucial benefit of using .eu domains, particularly for businesses aiming to connect with the European market. A .eu domain explicitly communicates your geographic focus, making it clear to EU customers that your services or products are intended for them. This can enhance user trust and engagement, as visitors feel your site is more relevant to their needs and local context. Additionally, having a .eu domain can streamline your marketing efforts, allowing you to tailor your content, promotions, and SEO strategies specifically for the European audience. It also simplifies the process of complying with regional regulations, as a .eu domain indicates adherence to EU standards. By focusing on regional targeting, you can build a more cohesive and effective online presence within the European Union, ultimately driving better user experiences and higher conversion rates among your target demographic.

Eligibility criteria

To register a .eu domain, there are specific eligibility criteria that must be met. Primarily, the registrant must be an individual or legal entity based within the European Union, Iceland, Liechtenstein, or Norway. For individuals, this means you must be a resident of one of these countries. For businesses and organisations, having a registered office, central administration, or principal place of business within the EU or the aforementioned countries is mandatory. These criteria ensure that .eu domains are reserved for those with a legitimate connection to the European region. It’s important to note that the eligibility requirements are strictly enforced by EURid, the registry manager for .eu domains. Once eligibility is confirmed, the registration process can proceed, allowing you to secure your desired .eu domain name and begin leveraging its benefits for your European-focused online presence.

Registration process

Registering a .eu domain is a straightforward process. First, choose a reputable domain registrar that offers .eu domain registration. Many well-known registrars provide this service. Next, you’ll need to check the availability of your desired domain name. Most registrars have a search tool for this purpose. Once you’ve found an available name, you can proceed to the registration phase. Here, you’ll need to provide some basic information, including proof of eligibility, such as your address or business registration within the EU. Verification of your legal entity may also be required to ensure compliance and legitimacy. After providing the necessary details, you will complete the payment process. Registration periods typically range from one to ten years, depending on your preference. Following successful payment, the registrar will submit your information to EURid, which will then activate your .eu domain. You will receive confirmation and can start using your new .eu domain to enhance your online presence in the European market.

Costs and renewal

The costs associated with registering a .eu domain can vary depending on the registrar you choose. Generally, prices for initial registration range from €5 to €20 per year. Some registrars may offer promotional rates for the first year, making it even more affordable to get started. It’s important to compare different registrars to find the best deal and service package for your needs.
Renewal costs are typically in the same range, though prices can fluctuate based on market conditions and the registrar's pricing model. Most registrars offer multi-year renewal options, which can provide some savings and convenience.
Renewal reminders are usually sent well in advance of the expiration date, ensuring you have ample time to renew and avoid any service interruptions. Failure to renew your .eu domain can result in it becoming available for others to register. Thus, timely renewal is crucial to maintaining your online presence.

DNS settings and configuration

Once your .eu domain is registered, managing DNS (Domain Name System) settings is essential for proper functionality. DNS settings control how your domain name translates into IP addresses, directing traffic to your website, email server, and other online services. Begin by accessing your registrar's control panel, where you'll find the DNS management section. Here, you can configure various records such as A (address) records, which link your domain to an IP address; MX (mail exchange) records, which manage email routing; and CNAME (canonical name) records, which alias one name to another.
Proper DNS configuration ensures your website loads correctly and your email services function efficiently. Changes to DNS settings can take some time to propagate globally, so allow for a delay when making updates. It's also wise to keep a backup of your current DNS settings before making any changes, in case you need to revert to a previous configuration. Regularly reviewing and updating your DNS settings can help maintain optimal performance and security for your .eu domain.

Domain privacy and security

Ensuring domain privacy and security is crucial for protecting your .eu domain from potential threats. Domain privacy services can help shield your personal information, such as your name, address, and contact details, from being publicly accessible via the WHOIS database. Many registrars offer privacy protection services either for free or at a nominal fee, which can prevent spammers and cybercriminals from accessing your data.
Additionally, securing your .eu domain involves implementing practices such as enabling DNSSEC (Domain Name System Security Extensions), which adds an extra layer of security by protecting DNS data from tampering and ensuring users are directed to the correct website. Regularly updating your passwords and using two-factor authentication (2FA) for your registrar account can also help protect against unauthorised access.
Monitoring your domain for any suspicious activity and promptly addressing any security alerts can further safeguard your online presence. By prioritising privacy and security, you can maintain the integrity and trustworthiness of your .eu domain.

Transferring your .eu domain

Transferring your .eu domain to another registrar is a common practice if you're looking for better service, pricing, or additional features. The process is typically straightforward but requires several steps for successful completion. First, ensure your domain is eligible for transfer; it must not be within the first 60 days of registration or near its expiration date.
Next, unlock your domain through your current registrar's control panel, which prepares it for transfer. You'll then need to obtain an authorisation code, also known as an EPP code, from your current registrar. This code is essential for initiating the transfer with your new registrar.
Submit the EPP code to your new registrar and follow their specific instructions to complete the transfer. Be aware that the transfer process can take several days to finalise. Once complete, verify that all DNS settings and configurations have transferred correctly to ensure uninterrupted service. Transferring your .eu domain can provide new opportunities and benefits with a different registrar.

.eu domains are reserved for individuals, businesses, and organisations with a genuine connection to the European Union and the European Economic Area. Specifically, the eligibility criteria include being a resident or citizen of an EU member state, Iceland, Liechtenstein, or Norway. For businesses and organisations, having a registered office, central administration, or principal place of business within these regions is mandatory. This ensures that .eu domains are exclusive to entities that operate within or have a legitimate presence in the European market.
This exclusivity helps maintain the integrity and regional focus of .eu domains, making them a valuable asset for those looking to establish or enhance their European identity online. If you meet these criteria, you can register a .eu domain through accredited registrars, providing you with access to a wide array of benefits tailored to the European context.

Resolving domain disputes involving .eu domains is guided by specific procedures set by EURid, the registry responsible for managing .eu domains. If you believe your .eu domain has been registered or used improperly, you can initiate a dispute resolution process. This typically involves filing a complaint through the Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) process administered by the Czech Arbitration Court (CAC).
The ADR process is designed to be a quicker and more cost-effective alternative to traditional court proceedings. It addresses issues such as cybersquatting, trademark infringement, and bad-faith registrations. To begin, you must submit a complaint detailing the nature of the dispute, supported by relevant evidence. The respondent will then have the opportunity to file a response.
An independent panel of experts will review the case and make a decision based on the merits of the arguments presented. This decision is binding and enforceable. Engaging in the ADR process ensures that domain disputes are resolved fairly and efficiently, maintaining the integrity of the .eu domain space.

The future of .eu domains looks promising as the European digital landscape continues to evolve. With increasing internet penetration and digital transformation across Europe, the demand for .eu domains is expected to rise. The European Union's focus on digital sovereignty and data protection further strengthens the appeal of .eu domains, which are seen as secure and trustworthy.
EURid is continually enhancing its services to meet the growing needs of users, including initiatives to support multilingualism and the introduction of IDNs (Internationalised Domain Names) that allow for non-Latin scripts. Additionally, regulatory changes and advancements in technology, such as the implementation of DNSSEC for added security, contribute to the robustness of the .eu domain ecosystem.
As businesses and individuals seek to establish a strong European online presence, .eu domains will remain a valuable digital asset, offering credibility, regional relevance, and compliance with EU standards. This positions .eu domains as a key player in the future of the European digital economy.