On December, 7 began the registration of internet domain names with .eu extension. The registration process is carried out by EURid (European Registry of Internet Domain Names) organisation, grounded in Belgium. It was entitled by the Eurocomission to operate the new top level domain .eu.

Private persons are free to register domain names with .eu. extension, but priority right is granted to public institutions and business companies. Up to April, 6 2005 the applications only by the two latter groups’ representatives will be considered. This measure is aimed at eliminating the so-called cybersquattering, which is registering internet-addresses containing trademarks and company names by those not related to them. 

From April, 6 any physical person is free to apply for a name with the .eu extension.