CERIST, the Algerian domain name Registry, has updated its registration requirements for the .DZ country code Top Level Domain (ccTLD), making it much more restrictive. These changes affect both new and already registered domain names.

From now on, the applicant of a .DZ domain name must be “an entity established in Algeria, having legal representation in Algeria”. As a result of these changes, holders or applicants of an Algerian trade mark alone, who cannot justify a local presence in Algeria, will have to register a .TM.DZ domain name. Registering a .TM.DZ domain name will, however, provide registrants with the right to register an identical domain name in .DZ.

In respect of .DZ domain names that are already registered, the modification of these domain names will no longer be possible if the registrant is not local; the only operation allowed for these domain names will be renewal.

In light of the above, we would encourage all non-Algerian registrants of .DZ domain names to be cautious and also register their brands in .TM.DZ in order to avoid potential difficulties down the line, even though the regulations are rather unclear and it is possible that they may be interpreted differently by the Registry or amended again in future.

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