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Jun 25, 2025 09:35 PM
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.ca domains
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To manage .ca domains on Squarespace, meet the Canadian presence requirement, understand the transfer process, and note that Whois privacy is available for individual registrants. Renew within 40 days post-expiration to avoid additional fees during the redemption period.
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Managing .ca Domains on Squarespace: A Complete Guide
Learn to register, transfer, or connect .ca domains with Squarespace effectively.
TL;DR: Key Points
- .ca domains have special requirements such as meeting the Canadian presence requirement
- Transferring a .ca domain to Squarespace is free, but includes an additional year of registration
- Only .ca domains registered to individuals can use Whois privacy
- After failing to renew within 40 days post-expiration, a 30-day redemption period follows with a potential extra fee
- Authorization codes for transferring .ca domains should only have letters and numbers
Understanding .ca Domains on Squarespace
If you're in Canada and want to localise your online presence, choosing a .ca domain with Squarespace is a smart move. Domains ending in .ca are managed under different guidelines compared to other top-level domains (TLDs). This means there are unique steps and rules for registration, connection, and transfer.
Registration and Transfer Fundamentals
To secure a .ca domain, you must satisfy the Canadian presence requirement (CPR). This means you're eligible under one of the specific categories defined by the Canadian Internet Registration Authority (CIRA). Whether registering a new domain or transferring one, you'll select your legal type during the process.
Transferring your .ca domain to Squarespace won't cost you anything upfront but does add an additional year to your existing registration. During the transfer, you'll enter your payment details to handle the standard renewal fee once it's due.
Special Features and Considerations
Expired Domains
You have a 40-day window post-expiration to renew your domain directly from your Squarespace dashboard. If you don't renew within this period, there's a subsequent 30-day redemption window. During this time, you may face additional fees to restore your domain.
Legal Type and Whois Privacy
If you're classified as a Canadian citizen or permanent resident, you can enable Whois privacy from your Squarespace dashboard. This privacy prevents your personal information from being easily accessible via public databases.
Pixelhaze Tip
To turn on Whois privacy for a .ca domain, go to your domain's settings, enter the "Registrant Information" section, select your applicable status, save it, and then enable the privacy option.
FAQs
Do I need specific qualifications to register a .ca domain with Squarespace?
Yes, you need to meet the Canadian presence requirement by fitting into one of several categories recognised by CIRA.
What happens if I don't renew my .ca domain on time?
Failing to renew your .ca domain within 40 days of its expiration leads to a 30-day redemption period. During this time, you can still reclaim your domain, often at an additional cost.
Is Whois privacy available for all .ca domains?
Whois privacy is only available for .ca domains registered under individual legal types like a permanent resident or a Canadian citizen.
Jargon Buster
- TLD (Top-Level Domain): The part of the domain name located after the last dot, used to specify a website's type or its country code
- CIRA (Canadian Internet Registration Authority): The organisation responsible for managing the .ca domain registry
- Whois: A protocol used to look up who is responsible for a domain or IP address on the internet
- Authorization Code: A code required to transfer a domain from one host to another, comprising solely letters and numbers, with no special characters allowed
Wrapping Up
.ca domains come with special requirements and features that can make the registration and management process feel complex. However, with a clear understanding of the regulations outlined by CIRA and the tools available within Squarespace, managing your .ca domain effectively is straightforward. Whether you're setting up Whois privacy or understanding the transfer procedures, staying informed will help ensure your domain supports your online presence as intended.