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

Problem:
The client is developing a multilingual website and wants to know if it's possible to set up translations with languages as parameters and later switch to different domains for each language upon launch.
Solution:
We confirm that it is possible to start with one URL format, such as 'Language name as a parameter', and switch to 'A different domain per language' at launch. The translations will remain intact regardless of the URL format change. For more details on language URL options, please visit https://wpml.org/documentation/getting-started-guide/language-setup/language-url-options/.

If this solution does not apply to your case, or if it seems outdated, we recommend opening a new support ticket. We also advise checking related known issues at https://wpml.org/known-issues/, verifying the version of the permanent fix, and confirming that you have installed the latest versions of themes and plugins. For further assistance, please visit our support forum at https://wpml.org/forums/forum/english-support/.

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This topic contains 1 reply, has 2 voices.

Last updated by Andrey 11 months ago.

Assisted by: Andrey.

Author Posts
August 14, 2024 at 6:24 pm #16072215

uffeS

Background of the issue:
I'm currently working on a website for a client that will be in three languages. The domains are currently in use with their soon-to-be-old websites. I'm developing the new website on my own web hotel, and when ready to launch, it will be moved to the correct domain name. The two other domains will be changed to point to the main domain name.

Symptoms:
No specific issue or error message mentioned.

Questions:
Is it possible to make all the translations where the languages are set as parameters, and then when we are ready to launch change it so that every language has its own domain?
Are there any known issues that I should be aware of?

August 14, 2024 at 7:47 pm #16072359

Andrey
WPML Supporter since 06/2013

Languages: English (English ) Russian (Русский )

Timezone: Europe/Kyiv (GMT+03:00)

Thank you for contacting WPML support. I'm glad to assist you with this.

The options 'A different domain per language' and 'Language name as a parameter' are just different language URL formats. You can use any format initially and then switch to another format without any issues. The language translations will remain the same, regardless of the format you are currently using.

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