A website address ending in .eu can be enormously helpful for businesses wanting to connect with customers in the European Union. Available to any business based in the EU, this domain name can be registered and ready to use in just a few simple steps. Find out more about what the .eu domain name means and how your business could benefit from it here.
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What is the .eu domain?
The .eu domain name is a domain name for businesses or individuals who work or live in EU member states. It’s also available to organisations which were first established in Iceland, Liechtenstein or Norway. Individuals using the domain name must either live in one of the EU member states, Iceland, Liechtenstein or Norway, or be an official citizen of one of these countries.
Registering .eu domain names in the UK
While UK businesses aren’t currently able to register a .eu domain name, there is a solution. You can register .eu domain names in the UK once the business or individual in question is based in an EU member state. Learn everything you need to know about registering a .eu domain name in the UK to see whether your organisation qualifies.
How has the law changed?
With the UK leaving the European Union at the start of this year, the law on .eu domain names changed significantly. Prior to Brexit, UK businesses could actually register and use a .eu domain with a UK address to attract customers in the EU. However, UK addresses no longer fit the bill. At present, only companies based within EU member states can legally register .eu domains.
How to register your UK owned .eu domain
If a UK business has the right to use a .eu domain name, it can easily register that domain name and begin using it immediately. It’s just a case of contacting an accredited register, selecting a relevant domain name and completing a quick registration process online.
Once a business selects and pays for a domain name, they can begin using it straight away. Plus, they are available for different subscription periods. Domain ownership times typical range from one to 10 years.
Why buy a European domain?
There are many reasons why companies might choose to buy a European domain name. For brands hoping to make a name for themselves in EU markets, the benefits of a .eu domain name are numerous.
The domain name is immediately recognisable to EU customers, helping to give a website an authentic and reputable look which could help influence buying decisions. Not only that, .eu domain names enable brands to build their customer base in the European Union. In fact, this can be a great way to create a strong and loyal following throughout EU member states.
A domain name ending in .eu will also protect a brand’s identity, putting a stop to any competitors that might be thinking of using a company’s name to redirect customers to their own sites or product pages.
So, Who can buy .eu domains?
Any business or individual based in EU member states, Iceland, Liechtenstein or Norway, can buy and use a .eu domain name. Companies operating in these countries can easily register their chosen domain names ending in .eu and use them to establish their position as a go to brand for European customers.
