Manage Domains with UK Extensions on Squarespace
TL;DR:
- You can register, transfer, or connect .uk, .co.uk, or .org.uk domains on Squarespace
- These domains follow UK-specific rules including automatic WHOIS privacy under GDPR
- Email verification from Nominet is required after registration
- No grace period for cancellations and no free transfers with more than five years remaining
- Transfers require accurate contact details and proper IPS tag updates
UK domains (.uk, .co.uk, .org.uk) work differently from other domains on Squarespace. They follow specific UK regulations and have their own transfer processes that you need to understand before you start.
Getting Started with UK Domains
You have three options: register a new domain, transfer an existing one, or connect a domain you already own. Each process has specific requirements because these are UK country code top-level domains (ccTLDs).
The main difference you'll notice is that UK domains don't use authorization codes like other domains. Instead, they use an IPS tag system for transfers.
UK Domain Registration Rules
Contact Information Requirements
When registering a UK domain, your phone number must include the country code (+44) without any dashes or spaces. This is stricter than other domain types.
You'll also need to select a registrant category during registration. Make sure this matches your actual status (individual, company, etc.) as it affects your domain's validity.
Privacy Protection
WHOIS privacy is automatically applied to UK domains due to GDPR requirements. This means your personal information won't appear in public domain databases without you having to pay extra for privacy protection.
Email Verification
After registration, you'll receive an email from Nominet (the UK domain registry) that you must respond to within a specific timeframe. If you don't verify your email, your domain could be suspended.
Transferring UK Domains to Squarespace
Before You Start
Check that your domain has less than five years remaining on its registration. Domains with more than five years can't be transferred for free.
Make sure your contact details with the current registrar are accurate and up to date. Incorrect information will cause the transfer to fail.
Remove any DNSSEC records from your domain before starting the transfer. These can interfere with the process.
The Transfer Process
- Start the transfer from your Squarespace account
- Wait for Squarespace to begin processing the transfer
- Contact your current domain provider to update the IPS tag to "SQUARESPACE"
- Don't update the IPS tag too early – wait until Squarespace confirms the transfer is in progress
The timing of the IPS tag update is crucial. If you change it before Squarespace is ready, the transfer will fail and you'll need to start over.
Transferring Away from Squarespace
To move your UK domain to another provider, you'll need the new registrar's IPS tag. Update your contact information in Squarespace first, then request the IPS tag change to the new provider's tag.
The new registrar should provide you with their IPS tag and guide you through their specific requirements.
Renewal and Expiry
UK domains on Squarespace follow the same renewal schedule as other domains, but the expiry process can vary depending on the underlying registrar Squarespace uses.
Some registrars offer a 30-day renewal period after expiration, but this isn't guaranteed. Set up auto-renewal to avoid losing your domain.
Common Issues
The most frequent problem is updating the IPS tag too early during transfers. Always wait for confirmation from Squarespace before contacting your current provider.
Another common issue is incomplete email verification from Nominet. Check your spam folder and respond to verification emails promptly.
Incorrect contact information causes many transfer failures. Double-check all details before starting any transfer process.
FAQs
Can I transfer a UK domain away from Squarespace at any time?
Yes, you can start the transfer process at any time, but make sure your contact information is current before you begin.
Is there a grace period to cancel UK domains on Squarespace?
No, UK domains don't have a grace period for cancellation and registration fees are non-refundable.
Do I need an authorization code for UK domain transfers?
No, UK domains use an IPS tag system instead of authorization codes for transfers.
What happens if I don't verify my email with Nominet?
Your domain could be suspended if you don't respond to Nominet's verification email within the required timeframe.
Jargon Buster
IPS Tag: An identifier that UK registrars use to facilitate domain transfers. Each registrar has their own unique IPS tag.
ccTLD: Country Code Top-Level Domain. These are domains registered at a country level, like .uk for the United Kingdom.
GDPR: General Data Protection Regulation. EU laws that protect personal data and privacy, affecting how domain registration information is displayed.
DNSSEC Records: Security extensions that provide additional protection for domain DNS queries. These need to be removed before transferring domains.
WHOIS Privacy: A service that hides your personal information from public domain databases to protect your privacy.
Wrap-up
UK domains have specific rules and processes that differ from other domain types. The key things to remember are the IPS tag system for transfers, automatic WHOIS privacy, and the need for email verification from Nominet.
Take your time with transfers and make sure all your contact information is accurate before you start. If you run into issues, Squarespace support can help with domain-specific questions.
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