All TLDs / .tv / meaning

What does .tv mean?

.tv is the country-code top-level domain for Tuvalu, introduced in 1998. In practice it's used far beyond its origin: video, streaming, channels — .
Type
Country code (Tuvalu)
Introduced
1998
Typical price
~$30–40/yr

Registry operator: Ministry of Transport, Energy, Communications and Innovations — per the IANA root database.

Source: IANA root zone database, checked August 23, 2026.

What .tv is actually used for

Roughly a tenth of Tuvalu's government revenue is this TLD — the most successful country-code licensing deal in history. For streaming products it remains the obvious pick.

Is .tv a country code or generic domain?

.tv is technically a country-code TLD (the ccTLD for Tuvalu), but it's widely marketed and used as a general-purpose extension. Google treats several such ccTLDs — including this one where applicable — as generic rather than geo-targeted.

Who runs .tv?

.tv is operated by Ministry of Transport, Energy, Communications and Innovations, the registry for Tuvalu. It has been live in the official IANA DNS root since 1998.

Can anyone register a .tv domain?

Yes — .tv is open for public registration through accredited registrars. Availability of a specific name still depends on whether someone already owns it, and some ccTLDs add local-presence or ID requirements. Here’s how to check whether a specific name is taken.

Should you use it?

Our short answer: Video, streaming, channels — .tv has meant 'television' online for 25 years and funds a nation doing it. For the full pros, cons, and rating, read the complete .tv review.

Best TLDs for Video & Streaming

Register a .tv domain