If you're targeting customers in Ireland, choosing a .ie domain instead of a generic .com or .net could be one of the smartest SEO decisions you make. In this article, we’ll explain why Irish domains often rank higher on Google.ie, how they affect trust and conversion rates, and how you can register one legally.
What Is a .ie Domain?
The .ie domain is Ireland’s official country code top-level domain (ccTLD). It’s reserved for individuals, businesses, and organisations with a proven connection to the island of Ireland.
Why Google Loves .ie for Local Search
- Geotargeting: Google uses your domain extension as a signal. If your site ends in .ie, it’s more likely to appear in search results shown to Irish users.
- Trust Factor: Customers in Ireland trust local domains more, especially for eCommerce, trades, and professional services.
- Reduced Competition: A well-optimised .ie site can outperform a .com simply because it's more relevant to the user's location.
Case Study: Local SEO with .ie Domains
We helped a local solicitor switch from a .com to a .ie domain, with all other SEO factors unchanged. Within 2 months:
- Organic traffic from Ireland increased by 27%
- They ranked top 3 for “solicitor Cork” and “legal advice Ireland”
- Click-through rate improved thanks to local trust
Who Can Register a .ie?
According to WeAre.ie (the official .ie registry), anyone with a real connection to Ireland can register. This includes:
- Irish residents or citizens
- Companies registered in Ireland (including sole traders)
- International businesses trading in Ireland
“.ie domains are 100% verified, which means fewer scams and a safer internet for Irish consumers.”
— IE Domain Registry
Choosing Your Domain Name
Use keywords and keep it simple. For example: corkplumbing.ie will outperform yourplumbingonline.com in local Cork searches.
Where to Register
We recommend these trusted Irish registrars:
Need Help?
If you're unsure how to register or migrate to a .ie, we can handle it. Mean Web Design offers domain setup, DNS configuration, and complete website migration from .com to .ie — all in one package.
📞 Book a Free Consultation