New gTLD Program: Next Round | New gTLD Program

Next Round

The New gTLD Program: Next Round is expected to open in April 2026. This timing is based on Policy Implementation work, which is estimated to conclude no later than December with publication of the Applicant Guidebook (AGB), the essential rule book for the program. In parallel to the policy implementation, ICANN org is also working on operationalizing the new gTLD Program, including developing the TLD Application Management System (TAMS), which will serve as the online application platform.

The next round of the program seeks to foster diversity, encourage competition, and enhance the utility of the DNS.

For reference purposes, historical information on the 2012 Round of the New gTLD Program can be found on this website.

The New gTLD application submission period is projected to open April 2026 for 12-15 weeks. Applicant Support Program Application Submission Period is projected to open on 19 November 2024 and close 19 November 2025. The RSP pre-evaluation submission period is projected to open on 19 November 2024 and close on 20 May 2025. The second evaluation period is projected to open in April 2026 for 12-15 weeks, concurrent with the opening of the Next Round application submission window. Dates are subject to change.

*The New gTLD application submission period is projected to open April 2026 for 12-15 weeks.
** The RSP pre-evaluation submission period was open from 19 November 2024 to 20 May 2025. The second evaluation period is projected to open in April 2026 for 12-15 weeks, concurrent with the opening of the Next Round application submission window.
Dates are subject to change.

Applicant Support Program The Applicant Support Program (ASP) is an initiative intended to provide financial and non-financial support for eligible entities that demonstrate financial need.

Registry Service Provider Evaluation Program The Registry Service Provider (RSP) Evaluation Program will evaluate RSPs before the gTLD application window opening, thereby reducing duplicative work and testing.

Applicant Guidebook (AGB) The AGB for the next round is being developed in collaboration with the Implementation Review Team. The final version is expected to be published by December 2025.