At Search.Initiative Registrar, we believe that domain registration should be simple, transparent, and fully compliant with global standards. These Domain Registration Terms explain how our customers can register, renew, and manage domains responsibly, ensuring protection of both digital assets and personal data.
By registering a domain with Search.Initiative Registrar, every customer agrees to follow these terms, which are aligned with ICANN, Nominet, and other regional registries’ requirements.

Purpose and Scope

These terms govern the process of domain registration, renewal, transfer, and management within our system. They apply to all top-level domains (TLDs) offered through Search.Initiative Registrar, including generic (.com, .net, .org) and country-specific extensions (.uk, .eu, .ca, etc.).
Our aim is to provide a safe and efficient platform for individuals and businesses to establish and maintain their online identity.

Eligibility and Customer Responsibilities

Customers must provide accurate, complete, and up-to-date information during registration. This includes the registrant’s name, address, email, and phone number. Providing false or incomplete information may lead to cancellation or suspension of the domain.
Customers are responsible for:

• Maintaining current contact and billing details in their account.
• Renewing domains before their expiration date.
• Ensuring that domain names do not violate intellectual property rights or applicable laws.
  Failure to comply with these responsibilities can result in suspension or deletion of the domain.

Domain Name Selection

Customers are free to choose any available domain name, provided that:

• It does not infringe on trademarks or copyrights.
• It is not offensive, misleading, or intended for illegal use.
• It meets the syntax rules set by the relevant registry (letters, numbers, and hyphens only).
  Search.Initiative Registrar reserves the right to reject or remove domain names that violate legal or ethical standards.

Registration Process

The registration process includes:

• Checking availability through our online search tool.
• Selecting a domain and completing the registration form.
• Providing accurate registrant information.
• Making payment via one of the secure methods provided.
• Receiving confirmation by email once registration is completed.
  Domains are registered on a first-come, first-served basis. Registration is complete only after payment is processed and approved by the relevant registry.

Duration, Renewal, and Expiration

Most domains are registered for one year by default but can be extended up to ten years in advance.

Renewal Notices

Search.Initiative Registrar sends automated reminders at 30, 15, and 5 days before the expiration date. Customers are responsible for ensuring timely renewal.

Grace and Redemption Periods

If a domain is not renewed on time, it may enter a grace period (usually 30 days), during which it can still be renewed. After that, it may move into a redemption period, where recovery is possible with an additional fee. Once deleted by the registry, the domain becomes publicly available again.

Transfers and Ownership Changes

A registered domain belongs to the customer as long as registration fees are paid and data remains valid.

Transfer to Another Registrar

To transfer a domain away from Search.Initiative Registrar:

• The domain must be unlocked.
• The registrant must provide an Auth/EPP code.
• The domain must not be in dispute or subject to legal action.
  We process all transfer requests in compliance with ICANN’s Transfer Policy and regional registry rules.

Change of Ownership

Ownership changes within Search.Initiative Registrar require written authorization from the current holder and confirmation from the new registrant.

Pricing, Payments, and Refunds

All prices are displayed clearly on our website and may vary depending on the TLD. Payment confirms the customer’s agreement to these Domain Registration Terms. Refunds are typically not available once registration has been processed, since domain names are considered digital assets that cannot be “returned.” Exceptions may be made in cases of technical errors or legal disputes, at the discretion of Search.Initiative Registrar.

Acceptable Use Policy

All registered domains must be used lawfully. The following activities are strictly prohibited:

• Hosting or distributing illegal, abusive, or harmful content.
• Using domains for phishing, spamming, or malware distribution.
• Violating copyright, trademark, or privacy laws.
• Misleading users or impersonating other organizations.
  Violation of these rules may result in immediate suspension of the domain and reporting to the appropriate authorities.

Data Accuracy and WHOIS Requirements

As part of international registry rules, certain domain information is published in the WHOIS database. To protect privacy, customers may use our WHOIS Privacy Service, which hides personal data while keeping the domain valid and contactable. Providing false WHOIS data can result in termination of the registration under ICANN regulations.

Registry and ICANN Compliance

Search.Initiative Registrar operates in accordance with the policies of the Internet Corporation for Assigned Names and Numbers (ICANN) and other national authorities.
Customers must comply with all registry-specific rules. Examples include:

• Nominet Terms for .UK domains.
• EURid Rules for .EU domains.
• Verisign Policies for .COM and .NET domains.
  Any violation of registry policies may lead to suspension or deletion by the registry itself.

Service Limitations and Liability

While Search.Initiative Registrar aims to maintain continuous service, occasional interruptions may occur due to maintenance or registry issues. The Registrar is not responsible for:

• Downtime caused by external networks or force majeure.
• Loss of profits or data due to customer negligence.
• Errors caused by third-party DNS providers or hosting companies.
  Customers are advised to back up DNS records and keep alternative contact information updated.

Security and Data Protection

We implement advanced encryption, authentication, and monitoring systems to protect user data. Personal details collected during registration are stored securely and used solely for administrative or legal purposes. We comply with GDPR, UK Data Protection Act, and other applicable privacy regulations. For details, see our Privacy Policy.

Policy Modifications

These Domain Registration Terms may be updated as registry policies, laws, or technologies change. Updated versions will be published on our website, and continued use of our services constitutes acceptance of the new terms. Customers are encouraged to review this page periodically to remain informed.