ICANN Next Round New gTLD Application Tracker

COMPLETED

Phase 1: SubPro Policy Recommendations Approved

The GNSO Subsequent Procedures (SubPro) Working Group finalized over 100 consensus policy recommendations, subsequently approved by the ICANN Board to establish rules for brand registries, closed generics, and geographic protections.

IN PROGRESS

Phase 2: Registry Service Provider (RSP) Pre-Evaluation Program

ICANN is conducting independent technical audits of backend providers (RSPs) across DNSSEC, RDAP, SRS, and data escrow. Applicants partnering with a pre-evaluated RSP can bypass technical testing, reducing evaluation timelines by months.

Q2 2026

Phase 3: Applicant Submission Window Opens

The formal application portal opens for a defined 12 to 15-week window. Sponsoring organizations, corporate brands, and non-profits submit string applications, financial proofs, and operational commitments.

2027

Phase 4: Initial Evaluation & String Similarity Review

Panels evaluate visual and phonetic similarity against existing root extensions to prevent user confusion. Financial stability evaluations and public objection periods commence.

2027-2028

Phase 5: Contention Resolution & Contracting

Multiple applicants competing for identical strings enter private settlement negotiations or ICANN-administered auctions of last resort. Successful applicants execute standard ICANN Base Registry Agreements.