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What is .ca?

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Last Updated: December 2, 2008 4:36 PM

The .ca top-level domain (TLD) is a domain extension that represents Canada. A .ca domain broadens your site audience to Canadian residents, as opposed to .com, the generic Top Level domain (gTLD) designating commercial activities. This is particularly beneficial for companies that conduct business in Canada by making their company URL more recognizable for Canadian residents and businesses. The policies and administration of .ca are set by the Canadian Internet Registration Authority (CIRA) and governed by Canadian law. The gTLDs are managed in the United States under American law.

If you or one of your contacts lives in Canada, you may be able to apply for a .ca domain name. CIRA processes and validates the request. For more information, see Who can register .ca domains?.

.ca domain names are registered on a first-come, first-served basis. You can register .ca domain names for up to ten years.