How to Complete .IN Domain WHOIS Verification & Remove Server Hold (2026 Guide)

WHOIS Verification for .IN Domain Names and Remove Server Hold

If you have recently purchased a .in domain name from any registrar such as GoDaddy, BigRock, Namecheap, Hostinger, or any other provider, you may notice that you cannot modify your domain settings or DNS records immediately.

This happens because .IN domain names require mandatory WHOIS (Registrant) verification. Until the verification is completed, your domain may remain under Server Hold, preventing it from resolving on the internet.

Important:
WHOIS verification for .IN domains is a mandatory identity verification process required by the National Internet Exchange of India (NIXI). Until the verification is completed, you may not be able to change DNS records, nameservers, or other domain settings.

Method 1: Complete Verification Using DigiLocker (Recommended)

This is the fastest and easiest way to activate your domain.

1. Ensure the Registrant Contact details entered while purchasing the domain exactly match your Aadhaar details.
2. The following information should match:
   • ✔ Full Name
   • ✔ Address
   • ✔ Mobile Number
3. Once the details match, your domain provider will prompt you to verify your identity using DigiLocker.
4. Log in to DigiLocker using your credentials and complete the verification process.
5. After successful verification, the Server Hold is generally removed automatically and you can immediately manage your DNS settings.

Method 2: Manual Verification Through NIXI

If DigiLocker verification is unavailable or fails due to mismatched details, you can request manual verification from NIXI.

1. Compose an email describing your issue.
2. Send the email to all three addresses:
   • support@nixi.in
   • registry@nixi.in
   • legal@nixi.in
3. Attach one or more valid identity documents.
4. Wait for verification.
5. Once approved, NIXI will remove the Server Hold and send you a confirmation email.

Accepted Identity Documents

• ✔ Passport
• ✔ Voter's Identity Card
• ✔ Driving License
• ✔ Aadhaar Letter / Aadhaar Card
• ✔ NREGA Card
• ✔ PAN Card
• ✔ Government-issued Business ID (if the registrant is a business)
• ✔ Utility Bill (issued within the last 3 months)
• ✔ Bank Statement (issued within the last 3 months)
• ✔ Rental Agreement (issued within the last 3 months)

Processing Time:
Manual verification by NIXI generally takes around 5 to 7 working days. After successful verification, you will receive a confirmation email and your domain's Server Hold status will be removed.

Why is My .IN Domain on Server Hold?

The Server Hold status is a security measure to ensure that every .IN domain is owned by a verified registrant. Until the registrant's identity is confirmed, DNS resolution and domain management features may remain restricted.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I change DNS records before verification?

No. DNS management, nameserver changes, and other domain settings are generally restricted until WHOIS verification is completed.

Does this apply to every registrar?

Yes. Whether you purchase your domain from GoDaddy, BigRock, Namecheap, Hostinger, or any other domain registrar, the verification requirement is for the .IN domain itself.

Which verification method is faster?

DigiLocker verification is the quickest and usually completes within minutes if your contact details match your Aadhaar information.

How long does manual verification take?

Manual verification through NIXI usually takes between 5 and 7 working days after submitting the required documents.

What happens after verification?

Once your identity is verified, the Server Hold status is removed, and you can freely update DNS records, nameservers, and other domain settings.