A top-level domain such as a dot brand, creates an online space for your brand by putting its name to the right of the dot, like creative.sky.
In 2012, ICANN opened the first round of the new gTLD programme allowing you to secure a new generic top-level domain (TLD). The latest window to apply closed in August 2026, with reveal day anticipated soon and applications expected to be processed early next year.
If you’ve applied for a new gTLD or dot brand domain, there’s still time to nominate your RSP. Find out how we can support you by contacting us today.
Alongside dot brand domains, in the previous round ICANN allocated:
- Geographic TLDs aimed at serving different regions, e.g. .london, .tokyo and .wales
- Community TLDs catering for different professions, e.g. .pharmacy, .jobs and .ieee
- Other generic TLDs include dictionary words that are suitable for international audiences, these usually have intended uses such as .pay, .hot or .bot
With applications for the latest round now closed, you can find out more about the remaining process in the applicant guidebook published by ICANN.
With experience running one of the largest country code registries and successfully delegating and managing multiple TLDs on our secure infrastructure, we have the expertise to help you launch your new TLD.
If you’ve applied for a new gTLD or dot brand, get in touch to see how we can support your TLD application.
For enterprise organisations, the opportunity is your dot brand. Watch the video to explore the possibilities of using a dot brand domain and its role in heightening brand security, increasing brand trustworthiness, and transforming the customer experience.
Why Dot Brand?
Heightened security
Dot brands are only available to approved applicants – customers can browse with confidence in your authenticity, knowing only your brand can register a dot brand domain.
Enhanced customer experiences
With a level of analytics only available to registry operators, you can optimise the user experience and personalise customer journeys.
Maximised Flexibility
Create as many domains as you like, without additional registration fees or domain name unavailability. This is ideal for short-term campaign pages or for distinguishing different areas of your business.
Application Process
ICANN’S NEW GTLD PROGRAMME
Unlike traditional domain names, you need to apply for a new dot brand or open generic TLD and have it approved by ICANN before it can be allocated. The latest application window for new gTLDs is now closed, having run from 30th April 2026 to 12th August 2026.
Here’s how the process works:
Initial ICANN pre-evaluation and administrative reviews begin for applications received before the closing date.
There’s still time to select an RSP until applications are evaluated.
Reveal day is anticipated to take place in October 2026, when applied for TLDs are publicly disclosed before string confirmation and admin checks get underway.
Once your application is approved, we’ll set the technical configuration and onboard your TLD onto our infrastructure before delegating it to the root zone.
We’ll support you with industry-leading technical expertise and customer service, so the launch of your new TLD and its ongoing management runs smoothly and securely.
Process liable to change at ICANN’s discretion.
Discover Dragon
By partnering with us, you’ll have access to our innovative, intuitive self-serve registry management platform to manage your TLDs.
Contact Us
Get in touch with us today to see how we can support you as a pre-approved Registry Services Provider.
For more information, submit your details below, contact us on +44 (0) 330 236 9478 or email registryservices@nominet.uk