The deadline for formal confirmation of the intention to tender bids passed yesterday, and the Unions now have until May of next year to submit their detailed bids to the International Rugby Board.
Of the 10 countries who originally declared an interest earlier this year, only Jamaica has opted not to continue with their bid.
"This strong response is unprecedented and truly reflects the global attraction of the Rugby World Cup," said IRB chairman Bernard Lapasset.
"It also reflects the significant economic benefits that accompany the hosting of a tournament that has grown in stature and prominence as a global event. Rugby World Cup is now firmly established as one of the world's top five sporting events.
"For the first time the IRB will award two tournaments at the same time. This provides longer term certainty for the hosts, Rugby World Cup Limited (RWCL) and the tournament's commercial partners.
"It also ensures that future development investment initiatives in the game worldwide can continue to be underwritten by the tournament and planned accordingly.
"The IRB Council will announce the RWC 2015 and 2019 Host Unions in July 2009, six years prior to the first tournament and 10 years prior to the 2019 event. This timetable reflects the scale and nature of the preparatory work in delivering this world class tournament."
The next World Cup, which takes place in 2011, will see New Zealand host the competition for the second time in their history. England, South Africa, Wales, Australia and France have all also hosted the World Cup since its inception in 1987.
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