---
title: "Geographic Name Applications Guide | www.onl"
description: "Complete guide to applying for geographic gTLDs including cities, regions, and territories. Learn about government support requirements and documentation."
keywords: "geographic TLD, city TLD, regional TLD, .nyc, .london, .tokyo"
author: "www.onl"
url: "https://www.onl/faq/geographic/"
---
[Articles](/articles/)

[TLD Types](/tld-types/)[Calculator](/calculator/)[FAQ](/faq/)[Contact](/contact/)[Start](/apply/)

[Articles](/articles/)


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

# Geographic NameApplications

Everything you need to know about applying for city, regional, and geographic gTLDs

01What qualifies as a geographic name?**Geographic names include:**

**Country names:** Even if not ISO 3166-1 codes (e.g., .scotland, .catalonia)
- **City names:** Major cities and municipalities (e.g., .nyc, .london, .tokyo)
- **Regional names:** States, provinces, territories (e.g., .bavaria, .quebec, .texas)
- **UN country codes:** All ISO 3166-1 country names
- **Other geographic entities:** Islands, regions, cultural areas

ICANN maintains a comprehensive list of protected geographic names.

02What is required for a geographic name application?**All geographic name applications require:**

- **Government or Public Authority Support:** Explicit support letter OR
- **Non-Objection Letter:** From relevant government or public authority
- **Documentation of Authority:** Evidence of the entity's jurisdiction
- **Translation:** If applying in a non-English language

**Without this support, your application will not be evaluated.**

03How do I obtain government support?**Steps to obtain government support:**

- **Identify the Authority:** Determine which government body has jurisdiction
- **Prepare Documentation:** Create a clear proposal explaining the TLD's benefits
- **Schedule Meetings:** Meet with relevant officials
- **Request Support Letter:** On official government letterhead
- **Submit with Application:** Include the original letter with your application

**Timeline:** Start this process 6-12 months before the application window.

04Can a non-government entity operate a geographic TLD?**Yes, many geographic TLDs are operated by non-government entities:**

- **.nyc:** Operated by a city entity
- **.london:** Operated by a private organization with city support
- **.tokyo:** Operated by Tokyo Metropolitan Government
- **.paris:** Operated with city government support

The key is having explicit government support or non-objection, regardless of who operates the TLD.

05What is the difference between country codes and geographic gTLDs?**Country Code TLDs (ccTLDs):**

- Two-letter ISO 3166-1 codes (e.g., .us, .uk, .de)
- Not part of the new gTLD program
- Generally restricted to residents/entities of that country

**Geographic gTLDs:**

- Can be any length (e.g., .nyc, .london, .bavaria)
- Part of the new gTLD program
- Eligibility determined by the registry operator

06What documentation is required for geographic TLDs?**Required documentation includes:**

- **Support Letter:** Official government/public authority letter of support or non-objection
- **Authority Documentation:** Evidence of the authority's jurisdiction over the geographic name
- **Organizational Documents:** Your entity's incorporation, structure
- **Financial Capability:** Proof of ability to pay fees and operate
- **Technical Plan:** RSP contract or technical infrastructure plan

07What are the eligibility requirements for registrants?**As the registry operator, you set the eligibility rules:**

- **Restricted:** Only residents, businesses, or organizations with connection to the geographic area
- **Open:** Anyone can register (like .com)
- **Verified:** Require documentation proving connection to the area

Most geographic TLDs choose restricted or verified models to maintain community relevance.

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

- **2025 Early:** Begin government outreach and support process
- **2025 Mid:** Secure support letters, select RSP, prepare application
- **Q2 2026:** Submit application during window
- **2026-2028:** Evaluation period (12-24 months)
- **2028:** Delegation and launch preparation

**Key:** Government support should be secured well before the application window.

## Ready to Apply for a Geographic TLD?

Our team has experience securing government support and managing geographic TLD applications.

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

[Articles](/articles/)