.pk domains carry local trust — and a slightly different process than global extensions. Here is the complete picture.
Who runs it PK NIC (pknic.net.pk) governs the namespace; registration happens through APPROVED registrars (a list is on their site). Registering through random resellers adds a middleman without adding value — go direct-to-approved or through a host that coordinates it.
The second levels that matter - .com.pk: businesses (the popular choice) - .pk: direct second-level — fewer documents historically, scarcer names - .org.pk / .edu.pk / .gov.pk: organizations, institutions, government — with eligibility proof
Documents and process 1. Choose name + check availability via an approved registrar 2. Provide: CNIC (individual) or NTN/SECP registration (company) for most categories 3. Registrant contact details — the domain is registered to YOU 4. Approval: typically 1–3 working days (some categories review longer) 5. DNS: point nameservers to your hosting after approval
Naming rules and gotchas - Letters, digits, hyphens; no leading/trailing hyphens - Trademark holders can dispute registrations — do not register brands you do not own - Renewal: annual through the registrar; expiry follows similar grace cycles to global domains
The strategy most businesses land on .com as the main site (global typing habit), .com.pk registered to protect the brand locally and redirected to the .com. Total cost: roughly PKR 7,000/year for both — cheaper than one month of a competitor's brand confusion.
Kairalmas helps coordinate .pk registrations and hosts them like any other domain — bring the documents, the DNS side is ours.