A .PK domain is essential for businesses, bloggers, and individuals looking to establish an online presence in Pakistan. If you want to register a .PK domain, you need to go through PKNIC, the official registry for all .PK domains. In this guide, we will walk you through the complete process of buying and managing a .PK domain, from checking availability to setting up DNS.
1. What is PKNIC and Why Do You Need It?
PKNIC is the official domain registry for all .PK domains, including:
- .pk (general use)
- .com.pk (commercial businesses)
- .net.pk (networking organizations)
- .org.pk (nonprofits and organizations)
- .edu.pk (educational institutions)
- .gov.pk (government organizations)
If you want to own a .PK domain, you must register it through PKNIC or an authorized reseller.

2. Steps to Buy a .PK Domain in Pakistan
Step 1: Check Domain Availability
Before registering a domain, check if your desired name is available.
- Visit https://pknic.net.pk
- Use the "WHOIS Lookup" tool to check domain availability.
- If the domain is available, you can proceed with registration.
Step 2: Create a PKNIC Account
To register a domain, you need a PKNIC account.
- Go to the PKNIC website and click on "Sign Up."
- Fill in your personal or business details.
- Verify your email to activate the account.
Step 3: Purchase PKNIC Prepaid Cards (Credits)
PKNIC requires prepaid cards to register domains. These can be purchased through:
- Official PKNIC partners and resellers.
- Online payment options (if available).
Each card typically allows you to register or renew a domain for two years.
Step 4: Register Your .PK Domain
Once you have a PKNIC account and prepaid credits:
- Log in to your PKNIC account.
- Click on "Register Domain."
- Enter your desired domain name.
- Provide accurate registrant details.
- Select your prepaid card to complete the registration.
Congratulations! Your .PK domain is now registered.

3. Managing Your .PK Domain
Once your domain is registered, you need to manage it properly.
Updating Nameservers (DNS Settings)
To make your domain live, you need to point it to a hosting provider.
- Log in to your PKNIC account.
- Go to "Manage Domains" and select your domain.
- Update the nameservers (NS1, NS2) provided by your hosting provider.
- Wait 24-48 hours for DNS propagation.
Renewing Your Domain
.PK domains are valid for two years and must be renewed before expiration.
- Log in to PKNIC and check the expiry date.
- Purchase a new PKNIC prepaid card.
- Apply the card to extend your domain’s validity.
Transferring a .PK Domain
You can transfer your .PK domain to another owner.
- The current owner must initiate the transfer request via PKNIC.
- The new owner must accept the transfer and update details.
- PKNIC will verify and approve the transfer within a few days.

4. Cost of a .PK Domain in Pakistan
The cost of a .PK domain depends on the reseller or direct PKNIC purchase.
| Domain Type | Price (Approx.) | Validity |
|---|---|---|
| .pk / .com.pk / .net.pk | PKR 2,500 – 3,000 | 2 Years |
| .edu.pk / .gov.pk | Special Approval Required | 2 Years |
Prices may vary based on promotions, resellers, and renewal fees.

5. Choosing Between PKNIC and Resellers
You can register a .PK domain through PKNIC directly or via an authorized reseller.
PKNIC Direct Registration
✅ Direct access to domain management.
✅ Lower costs (no reseller fees).
❌ Requires purchasing prepaid cards.
Using a Reseller
✅ Easier payment options.
✅ Some resellers offer hosting and support.
❌ Higher price due to service fees.
Popular domain resellers in Pakistan include:
- HosterPK
- Nexus.pk
- PakHost
- Websouls

6. Benefits of Having a .PK Domain
✅ Local SEO Advantage – Helps rank higher in Pakistan-based searches.
✅ Trust & Credibility – Builds a professional online presence.
✅ Brand Protection – Secures your brand name in Pakistan.
✅ Better Availability – More chances to get your desired name than .com.
7. Common Issues & Troubleshooting
🔹 Domain Not Working? – Check DNS settings and hosting.
🔹 Can’t Buy a Domain? – Ensure prepaid cards are available.
🔹 Domain Expired? – Renew within the grace period.
🔹 PKNIC Account Issues? – Contact PKNIC support.

8. Final Thoughts
Registering a .PK domain is an essential step for establishing your online presence in Pakistan. Whether you're a business, blogger, or organization, following the right process ensures a smooth domain registration experience.
By using this guide, you can check domain availability, register through PKNIC, manage DNS settings, and renew your domain on time.
If you have any questions, feel free to ask in the comments below! 🚀

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