Domain Names
Legal Basis
There is no specific law regarding country code top-level domain names. However, pursuant to the domain name registration reform, a foundation (Eesti Internet SA) was formed which has set its “Domain Regulation” rules as standard terms when applying for a domain name.
Filing
The registration procedure is now two-staged, being comprised of services provided by EIS (above “Eesti Interneti SA”) and by private law Registrars. Only the latter provide their services directly to domain name registrants.
Country code top-level domain name: .ee
Sub-domains: .com.ee (for companies in the sense of the Commercial Code); .pri.ee (for natural persons); .fie.ee (for sole proprietors in the sense of the Commercial Code); .med.ee (for medical institutions).
Applicants: every legal and natural person, irrespective of their place of residence. Indefinite number of registrations per one applicant.
Restriction as to nationality: none.
Local presence: foreign entities must have a local administrative contact.
Domestic trademark right: not required for applying for a domain name registration.
Domain name can be registered as a trademark: yes.
Registration, Protection
Duration:registration valid for either one, two or three years as of the date of registration (difference in fees).
Renewal/maintenance: a registration can be extended for a new term within the last three months of its duration.
Dispute about ownership: resolved either before the Domain Disputes Committee or in court.
Uniform dispute resolution procedure: none, but an administrative procedure other than UDRP is available before the Domain Disputes Committee.
Authority name: Eesti Internet SA (Estonian Internet Foundation).
Internet address: www.internet.ee