The three month application window for applying for a generic top Level Domain (gTLD) opened on 12 January 2012.
The new gTLD program allows organisations to introduce new gTLDs into the domain name space that do not use the existing extensions such as .com or .au. Organisations with strong brands are expected to apply for gTLDs that reflect their brand (e.g. .nokia). Other organisations may procure generic gTLDs (e.g. .music or .car) in the hope of profiting by selling sub domains.
Before an applicant can submit an application, it must register its interest by 29 March 2012. This involves a process of completing an applicant profile, a legal review of the applicant (such as the applicant's legal status, identification of its directors, officers, partners, and identification of its major shareholders), and submitting an initial deposit of US$5,000. The window for lodging an application itself closes on 12 April 2012. Applications are made on-line via the TLD Application System, accessible from the ICANN website.
The application must be accompanied by a further US$180,000 evaluation fee and involves providing information about the applicant's technical and financial ability to operate a gTLD registry in a secure and stable manner, business and marketing plans, and criminal or domain abuse history of principals (if any).
As the application process is complex and time consuming those interested in obtaining top level domain will need to take swift action. Once the application window is closed it may be 2 to 3 years before any new applications are accepted. It is expected that the first new gTLDs will go live on the internet in 2013.
After the window closes ICANN will publish a list of applicants and open a 60 day public comment period. There will also be an opportunity to make formal objections to specific applications, for example if the applicant's use of the gTLD would breach legal rights such as trade mark rights.
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