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How to register .ac.uk and .gov.uk domain names

Learn who qualifies for .ac.uk and .gov.uk domains and how to apply through Kualo.

2 min read Updated 4 Jun 2026

The .ac.uk and .gov.uk domain extensions are restricted to specific types of organisation. If you qualify, Kualo can register or transfer these domains on your behalf, though the process differs from a standard domain order.

Eligibility

.ac.uk domains

The .ac.uk extension is available to UK-based education establishments, such as universities and other centres of tertiary education. The full eligibility policy is published on the Janet Community website.

.gov.uk domains

UK government departments and agencies, local and regional government bodies, and non-departmental public body (NDPB) organisations and projects are eligible to register a .gov.uk domain. The domain name should reflect the legal name or registered trading name of your organisation and comply with the guidelines for UK government websites. The full eligibility policy is available on GOV.UK.

How to apply

Registering a .ac.uk or .gov.uk domain is not available through the Kualo website. To apply, you need to complete the relevant form and send it to us so we can submit the application on your behalf.

Once you have completed the form, contact us and we will take it from there.

Both .ac.uk and .gov.uk domains can only be registered for a period of two years. Please allow between 5 and 20 days for the application to be reviewed and approved by the registry.

Pricing

Period Cost
First two years £120 + VAT
Each subsequent two-year renewal £80 + VAT

Transferring an existing .ac.uk or .gov.uk domain

If you already hold a .ac.uk or .gov.uk domain with another provider and want to move your hosting to Kualo, we can transfer the domain to our administration. We can also help you migrate your website to a new web hosting package and ensure a smooth transition.

All domain names registered through Kualo include free DNS management, URL forwarding, and email forwarding. For more details, see kualo.com/domains.

If you need any further help, please contact us.

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