.com vs .com.np: Which Domain Extension is Right for You?
Compare international .com domains with Nepal-specific .com.np extensions. Cost analysis, credibility factors, and which fits your business goals.
Choosing between .com and .com.np isn't just about price. Your domain extension signals where you do business, who you serve, and how seriously you take your online presence.
Quick Comparison
| Factor | .com | .com.np |
|---|---|---|
| Cost | रू1,499/year | Free (requires verification) |
| Activation time | Instant | 2-5 business days |
| Requirements | None | Nepal citizenship or business registration |
| Geographic signal | Global/neutral | Nepal-focused |
When .com Makes Sense
International customers — If you sell software, services, or products to customers outside Nepal, .com is the universal standard.
Growth beyond Nepal — Planning to expand internationally? Start with .com now. Rebranding later loses SEO momentum.
Instant activation — .com domains activate immediately after payment. No document verification, no approval wait.
Perceived credibility — .com is still the default assumption for professional businesses.
When .com.np Makes Sense
Local-only business — Restaurant, clinic, retail store serving one city or region? .com.np signals "we're local."
Budget constraints — Free vs रू1,499/year is significant for side projects or bootstrapped startups.
Your preferred .com is unavailable — If "yourname.com" is taken but "yourname.com.np" is available.
Building trust with Nepal customers — Proves Nepal registration and commitment to the local market.
Decision Framework
Choose .com if you have international customers or plan to within 3 years, or need instant activation.
Choose .com.np if 100% of your customers are in Nepal, you're testing an idea, or your .com is taken.