The latest version contains various improvements to the application process
On May 30, 2025, ICANN published a new draft version of the Applicant Guidebook (AGB)—the manual for applicants of a generic top-level domain (gTLD). The latest version has already been subjected to four rounds of public comments. It is now open to one last and final round until July 23, 2025. The present document, though not final, is already very informative for parties planning to apply for a new TLD in 2026. Compared to the previous 2012 Guidebook, most of the changes are clearly in favor of applicants, significantly improving their position and speeding up the process. The five most important improvements are outlined below:
1. Reduced risk with “replacement string”
In the previous round, one major risk for applicants was the possibility of multiple parties applying for the same extension or string, leading to late-stage rejections and costly procedures. In the upcoming round, applicants will be able to submit a “replacement string” alongside their primary choice. This can be used to evade said risk if multiple applicants request the same string (gTLD) and increases the likelihood of a successful application.
2. Registry service providers evaluated only once
In the previous round, ICANN had to evaluate not only the applicant but also their chosen technical operator, the Registry Service Provider (RSP)—even if that RSP had already gone through the process for other applicants. Under the new AGB, ICANN no longer needs to re-evaluate an RSP for each application. This saves both time and money, especially for applicants applying for multiple extensions.
3. Better defined timelines
One major drawback of the last round was the lack of clarity around timelines for final decisions. The new application process has a much clearer timeline with defined milestones, such as “Reveal Day”, when it becomes public who has applied for which extensions. A 14-day “Replacement Period” also allows applicants to switch to their replacement string. If disputes arise, there are now well-defined deadlines and formats for objections and appeals.
4. Expanded Applicant Support Program (ASP)
Applying for a new gTLD is expensive, time-consuming and requires specialized expertise. This previously led to criticism that new extensions were primarily for wealthy countries. ICANN has now significantly expanded the Applicant Support Program (ASP) to, in its own words, “close the digital divide”. Applicants with limited resources can receive discounts on application fees, free support from expert service providers, guidance from a dedicated advisor and even auction discounts in cases of string contention.
However, the ASP is still facing criticism due to the low number (currently five) of applicants. At the recent ICANN meeting in Prague, the attendants, notably the government representatives present, were critical of application costs, lack of awareness and complex requirements. The Governmental Advisory Committee (GAC) therefore advised an immediate review of the program to allow for improvements ahead of the 2026 application window.
5. Genuine use encouraged over speculation
A final improvement is the exclusion of speculators and those falsely claiming to represent specific communities. Applicants must now demonstrate a genuine intention to use the requested TLD. Applications made purely for speculative purposes or to block competitors will be rejected. If you claim to represent a community, stricter documentation requirements and assessment criteria now apply. Private auctions between applicants are also prohibited.
Final version expected by year-end
The current version of the AGB includes all accepted input from four public comment periods. The current and final round of public comments closes on July 23, 2025. The next step is for ICANN to review and finalize it internally. ICANN has committed to publishing the final version at least four months before applications open in Q2 2026—meaning it will be released by the end of this year.
Start preparing now
The next round of the New gTLD Program is expected in Q2 2026. Application fees start at $227,000, but additional procedures can significantly increase the cost. Good preparation is essential.