The registration rules for .CO domains were significantly relaxed at the end of 2009.
Now virtually anyone in the world can apply for .CO domain names without local presence in Columbia.
Widely accepted as the short term for 'company', 'corporation', .CO represents a unique opportunity on internet for businesses and individuals.
Simply put, .CO is global, recognizable and memorable, and therefore highly desirable
in this competitive business environment.
.CO launch started from 1 April 2010, involving a multi-phase plan to ensure for the stable and orderly distribution of domains. The Launch has three core stages:
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Sunrise April 1 - June 10
In Sunrise phase,Between April 1 and June 10, 2010 any trademark in the world - registered and in full force and effect on or before July 30, 2008 - may apply for a .CO domain.
These trademarks need to be registered in a trademark office or registry that corresponds to a state or entity described in the WIPO Standard ST.3 code.
This allows companies to apply for their desired domain or domains and secure their trademarks.
At the end of the phase, all names that have only one application are immediately allotted and registered for one year.
Multiple applications made under the same name or any interest in matching domains will go to auction.
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Landrush June 21 - July 13:
Landrush takes place from the end of June through mid-July, and will be open to anyone interested in registering domain names of high commercial value.
Any interest in matching domains will go to auction.
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General Availability July 20:
Once the Global Sunrise and Landrush processes are complete, .CO domains will become available to anyone in the world.
Except where otherwise reserved by the .CO Registry or earmarked for premium auctions, .CO domains will be available to the public based
on the chronological order of registrations on a first come, first served basis.
Instra is now accepting .CO Sunrise Applications until 10 June.
For more information on .CO registration phases and Launch FAQ, please refer to
.CO Launch Guideline
and further details relating to the .CO policies and other supporting documents can be found here: