For .nl domains: cancellation is followed by a 40-day quarantine. During this time, according to SIDN, only the former registrant can reinstate the domain; nobody else can register it. Only after the 40 days is the name released again.
Registry & basic rules
| Registry | SIDN |
|---|---|
| Extension | .nl (ccTLD Netherlands) |
| Who can register | Natural and legal persons; no Dutch residence required. |
| Local presence | No local presence requirement. |
| Quarantine | 40 days |
| Re-release | After 40 days without reinstatement the domain is deleted and becomes registrable again. |
| Fixed drop time | SIDN publishes quarantine end times, so the exact release moment is visible. |
Deletion cycle in detail
According to SIDN, during quarantine "only you – the old registrant" can reinstate the domain; third parties cannot register it.
After 40 days without reinstatement the domain is deleted and becomes registrable again.
Is drop-catching possible?
After quarantine the domain becomes free — drop-catching is generally possible.
Backorder for .nl
A backorder targets the release after the 40-day quarantine. Basics: What is a backorder? · Domain catching.
Transfer & auth code
Transfer via token (auth code). See Glossary: auth code.
Specifics & risks
- Fixed 40-day quarantine favouring the former holder.
- Quarantine end times are visible.
- A free name is not automatically free of third-party trademark/name rights.
Difference from .de
Similar principle to .de (a protective period favouring the former holder), but 40 instead of 30 days. For comparison: .de deletion cycle.
Next
All TLD guides · Glossary: registry · Redemption Grace Period
Frequently asked questions
Can I register a .nl domain during quarantine?
No. During the 40-day quarantine only the former registrant can reinstate it, per SIDN.
Sources
- SIDN – Undoing the cancellation of a domain name — accessed 2026-08-12