This comprehensive guide walks you through everything you need to know about .ie domain registration in 2025 — from eligibility criteria and required documents to the submission process and timeline.

Who Can Register a .ie Domain?

The .IE Domain Registry enforces strict rules to ensure only those with a legitimate link to Ireland can register a .ie domain. You must prove two things:

• Connection to Ireland – A genuine link to the Republic of Ireland or Northern Ireland
• Proof of identity – Verification of your personal or organizational identity

Whether you’re an Irish citizen living abroad, a UK-based business selling to Irish customers, or a registered Irish company, there’s likely a pathway for you to secure your .ie domain.

Document Requirements by Category

Irish Businesses

Registered Companies

If you’re a registered Irish company, you qualify for the express registration process. Acceptable documents include:

• RBN/CRO number (find yours here)
• Irish VAT number
• Tax clearance certificate from Revenue Commissioners
• Irish or European Community Trademark number
• WIPO Trademark number (enforceable in Ireland)

Self-Employed or Business Partnerships

Sole traders and partnerships can use the same documents. If none are available, you’ll need to provide separate proof of Irish connection and commercial identity.

Starting a Business

If you’re launching a new venture, use personal identity documents such as:

• Irish Passport
• Irish or UK driver’s licence (with Irish address)
• Irish or Northern Irish bank statement (showing Irish address)
• Official College ID from a recognized institution
• Department of Social Protection Public Services Card
• Revenue Commissioners correspondence showing your PPS number

Individuals

Personal Names

You can register domains based on your first name, surname, nickname, or full name. The same personal identity documents listed above apply.

Blogs and Personal Websites

Requirements are identical — you must submit one document that proves both your Irish connection and personal identity.

Registered Trademarks

If you own a trademark, you may register the corresponding domain using:

• Irish Trademark number
• European Community Trademark number
• WIPO Trademark number (if enforceable in Ireland)

Other trademark types require additional documentation to prove Irish connection and commercial use.

Clubs, Societies, and Bands

Requirements vary by structure:

• Incorporated organisations: Use standard business documentation
• Unincorporated groups: Provide an Irish bank statement or personal ID from a nominated member
• Friendly Societies: Use your Friendly Societies Register number

Schools and Colleges

Educational institutions must provide their official school or college roll number issued by the Department of Education. Verify your number using the Department of Education’s online school list.

Charities

Registered charities can use either:

• CHY number (issued by Irish Revenue Commissioners)
• NIC number (from Northern Ireland Charity Commission)

Many accredited registrars offer fee waivers or discounts for registered charities — check individual registrar policies for details.

Statutory Bodies

Government departments, agencies, hospitals, and local authorities often don’t need to submit documents if .IE can verify their legitimacy online.

Overseas Applicants

Non-Irish entities may still qualify if they actively trade with Irish customers or businesses. You must provide:

Evidence of Irish Trade:

• Sales invoices to Irish customers
• A signed letter from a solicitor, accountant, bank manager, or auditor confirming your business operates in Ireland

Proof of Identity:

• Companies: Certificate of incorporation, company number, or VAT number
• Individuals: Non-residents without Irish citizenship cannot register .ie domains

How to Submit Your Documents

No more mailing photocopies — .IE now supports fully digital submissions.

Document Uploader

Use the official .IE Document Uploader to submit files directly. Supported formats include:

• PDF, DOC, DOCX, ODT
• JPEG, JPG, PNG, BMP
• Up to 5 files at once
• Maximum file size: 5MB each

Mobile Photos

Take clear, well-lit photos of your documents using your smartphone. The “snap and send” method works well for ID cards, bank statements, and letters.

Email to Registrar

Some registrars accept documents via email. Always confirm their preferred submission method before sending sensitive information.

Express Registration Process

If you already own a .ie domain, registering additional ones is faster through the express registration process. Approval is automatic when:

• You use the same Registrant Contact ID
• The registrant name, email, and type match your existing registration

Irish companies with active CRO numbers can also qualify by entering their CRO number and company name correctly during registration.

Registration Timeline

Most applications are processed within 3 hours on business days (Monday–Friday). Here’s what to expect:

1. Immediate Processing: If all requirements are met, your domain goes live at the next zone reload
2. Zone Reloads: Occur every odd hour (e.g., 01:00, 03:00, 05:00 UTC)
3. Missing Requirements: You’ll receive an email requesting additional documentation

Common Questions

Can I register another company’s name?

Registrations are first-come, first-served, but you are responsible for ensuring you don’t infringe on existing trademarks or intellectual property rights.

What if I want a domain that’s already taken?

You can try to negotiate a purchase with the current owner (they are under no obligation to sell), or file a complaint via the Alternative Dispute Resolution Service if you believe the domain was registered in bad faith.

Do I need to resubmit documents for additional domains?

No. If you already have a verified .ie domain, you can use the express process for future registrations without resubmitting documents.

Choosing a Registrar

The .IE registry does not sell domains directly. You must go through one of their accredited registrars.

When selecting a registrar, consider:

• Pricing: Compare initial registration and renewal fees
• Additional services: Web hosting, email, SSL certificates
• Customer support: Availability and responsiveness
• Management tools: User-friendly dashboard and DNS controls

Getting Started: Your Action Plan

1. Check availability using the WHOIS search at weare.ie
2. Gather required documents based on your category
3. Choose an accredited registrar from the official list
4. Submit your application with supporting documentation
5. Wait for processing — usually completed within 3 hours