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This thread is resolved. Here is a description of the problem and solution.

Problem:

The client is developing a multi-language website and is unsure how to effectively manage the homepage URL structure for SEO and usability.

Solution:

We recommend maintaining the default language (e.g., English) at the root URL (/) for optimal SEO and usability. The translated homepage (e.g., German) should use a language-specific path like

/de/

. This approach is beneficial for both search engines and user navigation.

We advise using WPML’s built-in language switcher, prominently displayed in the header or menu, facilitating easy language switching without disrupting the user experience. We generally do not recommend a full-screen language selector on the homepage as it can negatively affect SEO and usability.
For those using SEO plugins like Yoast, it's beneficial to integrate the WPML SEO plugin. For further guidance, please refer to the following documentation:

If this solution does not apply to your case, or if it seems outdated, we highly recommend checking related known issues, verifying the version of the permanent fix, and confirming that you have installed the latest versions of themes and plugins. Should you need further assistance, please open a new support ticket.

This is the technical support forum for WPML - the multilingual WordPress plugin.

Everyone can read, but only WPML clients can post here. WPML team is replying on the forum 6 days per week, 22 hours per day.

This topic contains 1 reply, has 0 voices.

Last updated by Bigul 1 month, 2 weeks ago.

Assisted by: Bigul.

Author Posts
May 30, 2025 at 12:28 pm #17092244

dirkS-6

Background of the issue:
I am developing a multi-language website with two languages, English and German, using WPML. The site is currently under development, and I am trying to determine the best practice for handling the homepage URL structure for SEO and usability.

Symptoms:
The homepage currently defaults to the English version, and I am unsure how to handle the homepage URL (ending with /) effectively.

Questions:
What is the best practice for handling the homepage of a multi-language website using WPML?
How can I implement a solution that is good for both SEO and usability for the homepage?
Should I use a big language switcher in a window for the homepage?

May 30, 2025 at 7:04 pm #17093316

Bigul
WPML Supporter since 01/2013

Languages: English (English )

Timezone: Europe/Vienna (GMT+02:00)

Hello,

Welcome to the WPML support forum. I will do my best to help you resolve the issue.

To help you faster, I've enabled debug information for this support ticket. Please see this link for how to get this information from your site and give it to us: http://wpml.org/faq/provide-debug-information-faster-support/

We recommend keeping the default language (e.g., English) assigned to the root URL (/) for best SEO and usability. At the same time, the translated homepage (e.g., German) can use a language-specific path like /de/. This setup is both search engine–friendly and easy for users to navigate.

We also suggest using WPML’s built-in language switcher, which is placed in a visible area such as the header or menu. This allows users to switch languages easily without interrupting the user experience. Using a full-screen language selector window on the homepage is generally not recommended, as it may negatively impact both SEO and usability.

If you are using SEO plugins like Yoast, please use the WPML SEO plugin. Refer to the following documentation for more details, and let us know your feedback.

https://wpml.org/documentation/getting-started-guide/language-setup/language-url-options/

https://wpml.org/documentation/getting-started-guide/language-setup/language-switcher-options/

https://wpml.org/documentation/related-projects/wpml-seo/

--
Thanks!

Bigul