For .eu domains: deletion is followed by a 40-day quarantine. During this time the former holder can reactivate the domain through their registrar. After that the name is re-released and registrable on a first-come, first-served basis; the release date can be looked up in WHOIS.
Registry & basic rules
| Registry | EURid |
|---|---|
| Extension | .eu (ccTLD European Union) |
| Who can register | EU/EEA nexus required: EU/EEA citizens/residents or organisations established there. |
| Local presence | Yes – EU/EEA eligibility criteria (citizenship, residence or establishment). |
| Quarantine | 40 days |
| Re-release | After 40 days the domain is re-released and registrable FCFS. |
| Fixed drop time | Release date per domain is visible in EURid WHOIS. |
Deletion cycle in detail
Per EURid, during quarantine the holder can reactivate via the registrar; domains revoked by EURid can only be reactivated by EURid.
After 40 days the domain is re-released and registrable FCFS.
Is drop-catching possible?
Possible FCFS after quarantine; the release date is visible.
Backorder for .eu
A backorder targets the FCFS release after the 40-day quarantine. Basics: What is a backorder? · Domain catching.
Transfer & auth code
Transfer via auth code. See Glossary: auth code.
Specifics & risks
- 40-day quarantine with reactivation via the registrar.
- EU/EEA eligibility criteria.
- Domains revoked by EURid: reactivation only by EURid.
- A free name is not automatically free of third-party trademark/name rights.
Difference from .de
Like .de it has a protective period, but 40 days and with an explicit FCFS release and a visible release date. For comparison: .de deletion cycle.
Next
All TLD guides · Glossary: registry · Redemption Grace Period
Frequently asked questions
Who may register a .eu domain?
People with an EU/EEA nexus (citizenship, residence or establishment in the EU/EEA).
Sources
- EURid – Domain in quarantine / how to restore — accessed 2026-08-12