yourbrand.us can identify a genuinely U.S.-connected business, organization, or personal project. Registration requires a qualifying U.S. connection, so availability is only the first check. If you meet the rules, search for your .us domain at NiceNIC.
Who can register a .us domain?
The usTLD Nexus Requirements Policy sets out three broad categories:
- A natural person who is a U.S. citizen, a permanent resident, or primarily domiciled in the United States or its possessions.
- An entity or organization incorporated, organized, or otherwise constituted under U.S. law.
- A foreign entity or organization with a bona fide presence in the United States.
For the third category, the policy looks for real and substantial lawful connections. Examples include regularly conducting lawful activities in the United States or maintaining a U.S. office or other property. A foreign business should assess its actual circumstances rather than assuming that a U.S. audience alone settles eligibility.
The qualification must continue while the domain is held. The registry may check registration information and request supporting evidence, so the domain should be registered in the name of the genuinely eligible holder.
What is .us useful for?
.us can work for a local company, community organization, nonprofit, American branch, regional campaign, or U.S. customer portal. Its geographic meaning is direct. It can also distinguish U.S.-specific information, such as products, service areas, or support, from a broader international site.
The address should match the project. A global business with no qualifying nexus cannot treat .us as an unrestricted short alternative to .com. Even an eligible business should consider whether customers are already familiar with its existing domain and whether a second site has enough distinct content to justify maintaining it.
Does .us include domain privacy?
The current usTLD policy does not permit anonymous or proxy registration services that substitute someone else’s details for the true holder. Do not assume that a registrar’s general offer of free WHOIS privacy applies to .us.
Before registering as an individual, consider the registry’s data requirements and review what registration information may be made available. Entering false details or using a proxy identity to avoid the rule can put the registration at risk.
What does .us cost?
NiceNIC's Market listing displayed $13.99 for first-year registration and $13.99 for renewal of a standard .us domain in September 2026. At unchanged rates, three years would cost $41.97 before applicable taxes or optional services. The live NiceNIC .us registration page shows the price applicable when you order.
How do you register .us?
- Identify which nexus category the intended holder meets.
- Prepare truthful holder and contact details, and retain records that can support the claimed U.S. connection if asked.
- Search the name and check for trademark or brand conflicts.
- Review the live price and complete the registration without adding a proxy privacy service.
- Connect the domain to the website and any separate Business Email service, then keep the registration details and renewal method current.
A .us domain can be a clear address for an eligible U.S.-connected project. Confirm the nexus and data requirements first, then check your preferred .us name at NiceNIC.
