Today, the Internet Corporation for Assigned Names and Numbers (ICANN) announced that the dedicated website for the ICANN85 Community Forum in Mumbai,
India, is live, and registration for the meeting is now open.
ICANN85 will be held as a hybrid event 7–12 March 2026 at the Jio World Convention Center in Mumbai, India, and will be hosted by the National Internet Exchange of India. As the last ICANN Public Meeting before
the opening of the 2026 round of the New Generic Top-Level Domains (gTLD) Program in April, ICANN85 will be an important opportunity for the global community to come together and review as well as advance the policies and technical work that ensure the secure
and stable operation of the Internet.
All participants must be registered by 6 March 2026 to attend the meeting in person.
Hosting ICANN85 in Mumbai, India's financial and commercial hub, reflects the Asia Pacific region's dynamic role in shaping the digital future. With its rapidly expanding Internet ecosystem, thriving startup culture,
and strong commitment to innovation, India provides an inspiring backdrop for the community's conversations about the Internet's evolution.
ICANN is committed to ensuring an inclusive Community Forum that provides an equal opportunity for all to engage, whether they choose to participate in person or remotely. The meeting schedule will be published
on the ICANN website on 9 February 2026.
Important Note for Travelers
Most foreign nationals entering India must possess a valid international travel document (a national passport) along with a valid visa or e-visa issued by the Government of India. The type of visa required generally
depends on the traveler's nationality.
All visa applicants are advised to consult the official visa guidance from the Government of India, available on the Authorized Portal for Visa Application to India webpage,
before submitting their visa applications. ICANN85 attendees are strongly advised to apply for their travel visas as early as possible and ensure that all required documentation is complete and accurate.
Disclaimer
While ICANN will make reasonable efforts to provide guidance and assistance, ICANN does not control the pace or outcome of visa issuance by the Government of India, including its embassies and consulates. Each
embassy and consulate maintains its own procedures and timelines for reviewing and granting visas. ICANN does not have the authority to expedite or guarantee visa issuance. Decisions made by the Government of India, including its embassies and consulates,
are independent of ICANN's operations and may vary in speed, efficiency, and outcome. Travelers are solely responsible for planning their travel accordingly and ensuring that their visa applications are submitted in a timely manner.