# Requirements for registering Canadian .ca domain names

> Check the Canadian presence requirements you must meet before registering a .ca domain name.

Source: https://helpcenter.ruachost.com/domains/registration/requirements-for-registering-canadian-ca-domain-names/

The **.CA** domain is Canada’s official country-code top-level domain (ccTLD). It is managed by the **Canadian Internet Registration Authority (CIRA)**, which enforces specific rules to ensure that .CA domains remain a resource for Canadians.

When registering a .CA domain through Ruachost, you must meet the **Canadian Presence Requirements (CPR)** set by CIRA.

##

Governing Body

- **CIRA (Canadian Internet Registration Authority)** manages the .CA domain space.
- Registrants must demonstrate a valid connection to Canada by selecting a **Canadian Presence Requirements category** during registration.
- CIRA may request proof of compliance at any time.

##

Categories and Requirements

Here are the most common categories under which you may qualify:

|  |  |  |
| --- | --- | --- |
| Category | Who Qualifies | Proof of Compliance |
| Canadian Citizen | A Canadian citizen of legal age in their province/territory. | Canadian birth certificate or valid Canadian Passport |
| Permanent Resident | A permanent resident under the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act, ordinarily resident in Canada | Canadian Permanent Resident Card |
| Corporation | A corporation incorporated under Canadian federal, provincial, or territorial law | Corporate registration documents (e.g., Industry Canada or provincial registry) |
| Partnership | A partnership where at least 66.6% of partners meet CPR requirements | Proof of compliance for each qualifying partner |

##

Registering Name Formats

CIRA enforces strict rules on how registrant names must be entered.

### For Individuals (Citizens/Residents)

Valid Examples:

- Jack Smith
- Bernard St-James

Invalid Examples:

- J. Doe
- Cool Gal

### For Corporations

 Valid Examples:

- 928945 Canada Inc.
- Sam Consulting Ltd. (Ontario)

Invalid Examples:

- Sam Corp. of Ontario (improper format)
- Canada Sam Corp. (misleading jurisdiction)

> **Note:**
- The registrant name must be the **full legal name** of the corporation.
- The jurisdiction of incorporation (Canada, Ontario, etc.) must be included unless it is obvious from the name.
- For charities, include **NFP** in the name and provide the registration number (e.g., `123456789 RR0001`).

Verification and Compliance

- After registering, CIRA may request supporting documents to confirm your eligibility.
- Failure to provide proof may result in suspension or cancellation of the domain.