---
title: "Brand TLD Application Guide | www.onl"
description: "Complete guide to applying for a brand TLD. Learn about eligibility, requirements, documentation, and the application process for corporate gTLDs."
keywords: "brand TLD, corporate TLD, trademark TLD, .brand applications"
author: "www.onl"
url: "https://www.onl/faq/brand-tlds/"
---
[TLD Types](/tld-types/)[Articles](/articles/)[Calculator](/calculator/)[FAQ](/faq/)[Contact](/contact/)[Start](/apply/)


[- Back to Main FAQ](/faq/)

# Brand TLDApplication Guide

Everything corporations need to know about applying for their own trademarked gTLD

01What is a Brand TLD?A **Brand TLD** is a gTLD that matches a corporation's registered trademark. Examples include .google, .bmw, .sony, and .amazon. Brand TLDs are typically operated as **exclusive-use TLDs** for internal corporate purposes.

Unlike commercial TLDs like .com or .shop, brand TLDs are generally not open for public registration.

02What are the eligibility requirements for a Brand TLD?**Brand TLD eligibility requirements:**

**Valid Trademark:** Registered trademark in at least one jurisdiction
- **Brand Recognition:** Evidence of substantial use and recognition
- **Corporate Structure:** Demonstrated organizational capacity
- **Intent:** Clear statement of intended use (typically internal)
- **No Conflicts:** String must not conflict with existing TLDs or reserved names

03What documentation is required for a Brand TLD application?**Required documentation includes:**

- **Trademark Registration:** Certificate of registration from at least one jurisdiction
- **Brand Use Evidence:** Examples of trademark use in commerce
- **Corporate Documentation:** Articles of incorporation, organizational structure
- **Financial Statements:** Proof of financial capability
- **Technical Capability:** RSP contract or in-house technical plan
- **Intention Statement:** Detailed explanation of intended TLD use

04What is TMCH and why is it important?The **Trademark Clearinghouse (TMCH)** is a centralized database of verified trademarks. While primarily important for commercial TLDs, brand TLD applicants should:

- **Register Your Trademark:** In the TMCH before launching your TLD
- **Claims Period:** Participate in the Claims notices period
- **Protection:** Protect your brand in other new TLD launches

For brand TLDs, TMCH is less critical but still recommended for brand protection across the TLD ecosystem.

05Can I apply for multiple Brand TLDs?**Yes, you can apply for multiple TLDs.** Each requires a separate application and $227,000 fee. Common brand TLD strategies include:

- **Primary Brand:** .companyname (e.g., .sony)
- **Product Lines:** .productname (e.g., .playstation)
- **Divisions:** .divisionname (e.g., .sonymusic)
- **Campaigns:** .campaignname (e.g., .justdoit)

Each application is evaluated independently.

06Should a Brand TLD be opened to public registrations?**Most brand TLDs remain exclusive-use** for strategic reasons:

- **Brand Protection:** Prevents unauthorized use of your brand
- **Security:** Reduces phishing risk
- **Trust:** Users know any .brand domain is legitimate
- **Control:** Complete control over which domains exist

Opening to public registrations is possible but rarely done as it diminishes these benefits.

07What are common pitfalls to avoid when applying for a Brand TLD?**Common Brand TLD pitfalls:**

- **Insufficient Trademark:** Weak or limited trademark registration
- **String Selection:** Choosing a string that doesn't match the trademark exactly
- **Rush Timeline:** Not allowing enough preparation time
- **RSP Selection:** Choosing the wrong registry service provider
- **Internal Buy-In:** Lack of executive sponsorship
- **Use Case Clarity:** Not defining clear use cases for the TLD

08What is the timeline for a Brand TLD application?**Recommended timeline:**

- **2025:** Trademark verification, string selection, RSP selection
- **Q1 2026:** Application preparation finalization
- **Q2 2026:** Submit application during application window
- **2026-2028:** Evaluation period (12-24 months)
- **2028:** Contract signing and delegation
- **2028-2029:** Sunrise and launch

## Ready to Apply for Your Brand TLD?

Our team has helped corporations secure their brand TLDs. Let us help you.

[Contact Us](/contact/)[Calculate Costs](/calculator/)