Channel Partner TAG rejected after 3 months & interview (UK LTD / Non-UK Director) – Need advice

[drivemax26]

Hi everyone,

Looking for some advice regarding a drawn-out Nominet application process.

Applied for a Channel Partner TAG using a UK LTD where the sole Director is based in Ukraine.

The Context & Setup:

• Use Case: Domain portfolio management and API integration.
• Public Website: A fully compliant site with SLA, Abuse contact, and Nominet T&Cs was prepared beforehand.
• KYC & Interview: Passed ID checks and completed an online interview with Nominet Compliance (Olivia).
• Payment: Application fee was paid during the process.
• Timeline & Outcome: Kept on hold for 3 full months after the interview, only to receive a standard generic rejection. The application fee was refunded back to us upon rejection.

Since all formal requirements, KYC, and payments were handled, the 3-month delay followed by a clean refund suggests it went through an internal risk/compliance committee review.

Would love to hear insights from anyone familiar with Nominet's current evaluation process:

1. Why the 3-month hold? Does a non-UK director automatically trigger an escalated risk review for Channel Partner / EPP access?
2. Public Registrar Volume: Does Nominet expect new Channel Partners to already have active UK retail sales/clients, rather than just a prepared site?
3. Getting clarity: Has anyone successfully requested feedback or appealed a decision after an extended review like this?

Appreciate any tips before considering next steps!

Thanks!