Via http://www.icann.org/en/announcements/announcement-11jan12-en.htm "Starting today, ICANN begins accepting applications for new generic top-level domains (gTLDs). The world of .com, .gov, .org and 19 other gTLDs will soon be expanded to include all types of words in many different languages. For the first time generic TLDs can include words in non-Latin languages, such as Cyrillic, Chinese or Arabic. Applicants will use the TLD Application System (TAS) to submit their application, in which they answer the 50 questions detailed in the Applicant Guidebook. Links to register in TAS are provided on the ICANN New gTLD page. 12 January: ICANN begins accepting applications 29 March: The last day to register in TAS 12 April: Final day ICANN accepts applications An updated version of the Applicant Guidebook was posted with the opening of the application window. The updated version incorporates clarifications made through responses previously published by the gTLD customer service center. Main points of clarification are on topics such as batching, background screening, the applicant support program, Continued Operations Instrument, GAC advice processes, and the registry code of conduct. ...ICANN encourages all interested parties, whether applicants or observers, to refer to the New gTLD section of ICANN's website for authoritative documents, helpful resources, and latest developments. The New gTLD site is found at http://newgtlds.icann.org/ The updated Applicant Guidebook: http://newgtlds.icann.org/en/applicants/agb/guidebook-full-11jan12-en.pdf Summary of changes from last version of Applicant Guidebook: http://newgtlds.icann.org/en/applicants/agb/summary-changes-applicant-guideb... Kind Regards, Dev Anand Teelucksingh LACRALO Secretariat