How to Get a .pk Domain: Registration, Types and Renewal Explained

A .pk domain is Pakistan's country domain, managed by PKNIC. You can register one directly with PKNIC or through a hosting company or registrar that sells .pk names. Choose between .pk (short and modern) and .com.pk (the traditional business option), check the name is free, and pay the fee, which PKNIC collects in advance every two years. This guide walks through pk domain registration step by step and explains the rules and renewals.

Types of .pk domains

According to PKNIC's registration policy, names are given on a first come, first served basis, and the registrant does not need a local presence in Pakistan.

Should you choose .pk or .com.pk?

A .pk domain is shorter and easier to type and say, which suits new brands and online stores. A .com.pk domain is familiar to Pakistani customers and is widely used by established companies. If your audience is international, consider a .com as your main domain and a .pk to protect your brand locally.

PK domain registration: step by step

1. Pick a name: short, easy to spell and matching your brand. Avoid hyphens and numbers if you can.
2. Check availability on PKNIC's website or your registrar's domain search.
3. Choose where to register: directly with PKNIC, or through a hosting company that bundles the domain with hosting and support.
4. Enter the owner details carefully. Register the domain in your business or personal name, not your developer's.
5. Pay the fee. PKNIC collects fees every two years in advance, and you can pay for longer periods.
6. Wait for activation. .pk registrations can take longer than .com. Some registrars warn it can take several working days.

How to connect a .pk domain to your website

Once the domain is active, point it to your hosting by updating the nameservers in your PKNIC or registrar account. Your hosting company gives you the nameservers, for example ns1.yourhost.com and ns2.yourhost.com. DNS changes can take from a few hours up to a day or two to spread. After that, install a free SSL certificate so your site loads over HTTPS. See our guide to fixing the "Not Secure" warning.

Renewal rules you should know

• Two-year fees: PKNIC bills in two-year blocks, so mark the renewal date in your calendar.
• Deactivation: if the fee is not paid by the due date, the domain is deactivated and your website and email stop working.
• Short hold period: PKNIC's policy allows reactivation during a short hold period after deactivation. After that, you can lose the name.
• Non-refundable: PKNIC fees are not refunded, so double-check the spelling before paying.

For the basics of domains and hosting, read our beginner's guide to domains and hosting in Pakistan.

Frequently asked questions

How do I register a .pk domain?

Search for the name on PKNIC or a registrar, enter the owner details, and pay the two-year fee. The domain activates after processing.

Can foreigners register a .pk domain?

Yes. PKNIC's policy says there is no requirement for the registrant to have a local presence.

Is .pk better than .com.pk?

Neither is better for SEO. .pk is shorter; .com.pk is more traditional for businesses. Choose what suits your brand.

What happens if I forget to renew my .pk domain?

It is deactivated, and your website and email stop. Renew quickly during the hold period to avoid losing it.

Want us to handle your domain and hosting?

We register .pk and .com domains in your name, set up DNS, SSL and business email, and remind you before renewals. See our web hosting plans or contact us to get started.