Registering a domain name

If you want to start a website in the Netherlands, you must first choose a domain name (Internet address). You cannot choose a domain name that is already in use, and your domain name must respect the trademark rights and trade name rights of other companies.

Checking a domain name

You can use the Whois-search option on the website of the Foundation for Internet Domain Registration in the Netherlands (Stichting Internet Domeinregistratie Nederland, SIDN), if you want to check if a certain domain name (.nl) already exists. You could also consult your internet provider's website, which usually offers domain name checks for .nl and other extensions as well.

Submitting a request for domain name registration

You must register a domain name from a domain names registrar, which will submit a registration request on your behalf to the organisation that administers domain names. The organisation administering the top level domain (TLD) ‘.nl’ is SIDN.

Cancelling a domain name

If you wish to cancel a domain name, contact your registrar.