New TLD Launch Phases

When a new generic top-level domain (gTLD) launches, it moves through a defined sequence of phases set by the registry and ICANN. Each phase has different eligibility rules, pricing, and allocation methods. Understanding these phases helps you set expectations with customers and decide when to register names on their behalf.

Upcoming

"Upcoming" is not a formal launch phase. It describes new TLDs that have been approved but have not yet announced dates for their Sunrise, Landrush, or General Availability phases.

These TLDs will be available in the future. OpenSRS posts updates on opensrs.com as registries release timing details.

Sunrise

The Sunrise Period is the mandatory first phase of every new gTLD. It is a limited pre-registration window reserved for trademark holders, and it is the right time to register brand names as domains.

Every registry must offer a Sunrise Period open to holders of a validated trademark record in the Trademark Clearinghouse (TMCH). Some registries also run an additional Sunrise with alternate eligibility rules. A separate Sunrise fee applies per domain, regardless of the Sunrise type.

End-Date Sunrise (auction-based)

In an End-Date Sunrise, applications are collected throughout the Sunrise period and registered at the end. Any domain that receives multiple applications is allocated through auction. End-Date Sunrise periods must run for at least 60 days and can be launched without advance notice.

Start-Date Sunrise (first-come, first-served)

A Start-Date Sunrise allocates names on a first-come, first-served basis. It must run for at least 30 days, and the start date must be announced at least 30 days in advance.

Quiet Period

The Quiet Period is a short pause between phases. It can sit between Sunrise and Landrush, or between Landrush and General Availability.

Quiet Periods are optional. When a registry uses one, it can last anywhere from a single day to several weeks. No domains can be registered during this time.

Landrush

Landrush is an optional phase that follows Sunrise. It is the right time to register high-value names that are not eligible for trademark protection.

Requirements vary by registry, but Landrush is usually open to everyone at a higher-than-standard price. Domains can be allocated through auction or on a first-come, first-served basis.

Premium domains during Landrush

Each registry can reserve high-value or "premium" domains and sell or auction them at elevated prices. Reserved terms, pricing, requirements, and allocation methods vary per registry, and not all premium domains are offered through OpenSRS.

General Availability and the Trademark Claims period

General Availability follows all Sunrise and Landrush periods. This is the open-ended phase where the TLD is available to the general public on a first-come, first-served basis.

During the first 90 calendar days after General Availability opens, registries must run a Trademark Claims period. The Claims Period cannot overlap with Sunrise.

Trademark Claims is a notification service mandated by ICANN for all new gTLDs. It warns both registrants and trademark holders about possible intellectual property conflicts:

• A registrant who tries to register a domain that matches a trademark term in the TMCH receives a warning notice.
• If the registrant accepts the notice and completes the registration, the trademark holder is notified so they can take any action they choose.

Note: Trademark Claims notifications do not block a registration. They inform both parties so each can decide how to respond.

Next steps

• Check the OpenSRS TLD launch calendar. Confirm which phase a TLD is in before quoting a customer or accepting pre-orders.
• Validate trademarks in the TMCH early. Customers who want a brand name in a new gTLD need a verified TMCH record before Sunrise opens.
• Set realistic pricing expectations. Sunrise and Landrush fees are usually higher than General Availability, and premium names carry separate registry pricing.

Questions? Contact OpenSRS Support.