Domain Expiry

When the domain registration expires. If not renewed, the domain becomes available to others.

What is Domain Expiry?

Every domain name is registered for a limited period (usually 1–10 years). When the registration expires, the domain goes through several stages before becoming available again.

Expiry Timeline

  1. Active — Domain works normally
    1. Grace Period (0–45 days after expiry) — Can be renewed at normal price
      1. Redemption Period (30 days) — Can be recovered at a high fee ($100+)
        1. Pending Delete (5 days) — Cannot be recovered
          1. Released — Available for anyone to register

            2. Why it matters

            • Expiring soon (< 30 days) — Risk of accidental loss
            • Recently renewed — Owner is actively maintaining it
            • Long registration (5+ years) — Established, committed owner
            • About to drop — Potential opportunity for domain investors

            Auto-renewal

            Most registrars offer auto-renewal to prevent accidental expiry. However, expired payment methods or account issues can still cause domains to lapse.

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