Managing .ca Domains on Squarespace
TL;DR:
- Register, transfer, or connect .ca domains with Squarespace if you meet Canadian presence requirements
- Transferring a .ca domain is free but adds one year to registration at standard renewal rates
- Only Canadian citizens and permanent residents can enable WHOIS privacy on .ca domains
- CIRA may audit your domain to verify Canadian presence after registration
- You have five days to cancel a new .ca domain registration for a full refund
Registering and Transferring .ca Domains
If you're building a Canadian business or professional presence, a .ca domain helps establish local credibility. Squarespace makes it straightforward to register, transfer, or connect .ca domains, though these domains follow different rules than standard .com or .org addresses.
The transfer process itself is free, but Squarespace automatically adds one year to your domain registration at their standard renewal rate. You'll need to provide payment details upfront to cover this fee. Local sales taxes may apply and will show during checkout.
Canadian Presence Requirements
To register a .ca domain, you must meet the Canadian Presence Requirements (CPR) set by CIRA. This includes Canadian citizens, permanent residents, or businesses registered in Canada. CIRA takes these requirements seriously and may audit your domain registration after purchase.
If you receive an audit request, you'll need to provide documentation proving your Canadian status. Failing to respond or provide adequate proof can result in domain cancellation.
WHOIS Privacy Settings
WHOIS privacy is only available for .ca domains registered under individual legal types like Canadian citizen or permanent resident. Business registrations don't qualify for privacy protection.
To enable WHOIS privacy:
- Open your domains dashboard in Squarespace
- Click on your .ca domain
- Go to 'Registrant Information' then 'Additional Info'
- Select your legal status and toggle WHOIS Privacy on
Costs and Refunds
While domain transfers are free, the mandatory one-year extension means you'll pay Squarespace's standard .ca renewal rate. Check CIRA's official documentation for current pricing expectations.
New .ca registrations come with a five-day grace period. If you cancel within this window, you'll receive a full refund.
FAQs
Can I transfer my existing .ca domain to Squarespace for free?
Yes, the transfer is free, but you'll pay for one additional year of registration at Squarespace's standard renewal rate.
What happens if CIRA audits my domain?
You'll need to provide documentation proving you meet Canadian presence requirements. Non-compliance can result in domain cancellation.
Can businesses enable WHOIS privacy on .ca domains?
No, WHOIS privacy is only available for domains registered under individual legal types like Canadian citizens or permanent residents.
How long do I have to cancel a new .ca domain registration?
You have five days from registration to cancel for a full refund.
Jargon Buster
Top-Level Domain (TLD): The final part of a domain name, like .com, .org, or .ca
Canadian Internet Registration Authority (CIRA): The organisation that manages all .ca domain registrations
WHOIS Privacy: A service that hides your personal contact information from public domain searches
Canadian Presence Requirement (CPR): The eligibility criteria you must meet to register a .ca domain, including citizenship, permanent residency, or business registration in Canada
Wrap-up
Managing .ca domains on Squarespace is straightforward once you understand the Canadian-specific requirements. The key is ensuring you meet CIRA's presence requirements and understand the costs involved with transfers and renewals.
If you need more help with domain management or other Squarespace features, check out our comprehensive guides at Pixelhaze Academy.