What is changing?
Nominet is introducing a programme known as .UK Standardisation. This involves modernising the systems, policies and processes used to manage .UK domain names.
The changes are scheduled to take effect on 9 February 2027 and affect domain extensions including .uk, .co.uk, .org.uk, .me.uk, .net.uk and .ltd.uk.
The aim is to provide a more consistent approach to domain management, with registrars taking responsibility for handling domain administration on behalf of their customers.
What does this mean for domain owners?
From 9 February 2027, .UK domain owners will need to manage their domain names through a registrar rather than directly through Nominet.
If your domain is already managed by a registrar or domain service provider, you will generally not need to transfer it simply because of these changes.
However, all .UK domain owners should review Nominet's revised Registrant Terms and Conditions and ensure their registration contact details remain accurate.
Customers managing domains directly with Nominet
If you currently manage your .UK domain directly through Nominet, you will need to choose a registrar and move your domain to that registrar before 9 February 2027.
Nominet's existing Online Services will no longer provide direct domain management after the transition.
Nominet strongly recommends making these arrangements before the transition date to avoid unnecessary complications.
Read Nominet's guidance for direct registrants
Changes to domain transfers
The process used to transfer .UK domains between registrars is also changing.
The existing IPS TAG-based transfer process will be replaced by a transfer authorisation code process as part of the new registry arrangements.
For most customers, this will simply mean following the instructions provided by their registrar when requesting a transfer.
SP Web Connections can assist customers who wish to move their domain management to us.
Updated Terms and Conditions
Nominet is introducing revised .UK Registrant Terms and Conditions from 9 February 2027.
The updated terms provide further clarity regarding:
- Registrant contact information and accuracy.
- Domain registration data and privacy.
- Responsibilities when domains are licensed to others.
- Support and escalation procedures.
- Contractual rights and obligations.
Domain owners should review the revised agreement before the changes take effect.
Read about Nominet's revised Terms and Conditions
What should you do now?
For most customers, no major administrative changes will be necessary.
We recommend that all .UK domain holders:
- Check that their domain is managed by a registrar.
- Ensure their registered contact details are correct.
- Review the updated Nominet Registrant Terms and Conditions.
- Check that their domain renewal arrangements are up to date.
How SP Web Connections can help
SP Web Connections provides domain registration and ongoing domain management services, including support with domain renewals, transfers and associated website and email services.
We manage .UK domains through our own Nominet registrar TAG and can assist customers who would prefer their domain names to be professionally managed.
If you are unsure how the changes may affect your existing domain, please contact us for advice.
Further information from Nominet
The following official resources provide detailed information about the changes.
- .UK Standardisation overview
- Guidance for direct registrants
- Revised Registrant Terms and Conditions
- Official .UK policies and agreements
Last updated: November 2026. Information is based on Nominet's published guidance and may be updated as the transition approaches.