gTLD and ccTLD transfers work differently
This guide is for transferring gTLDs only. gTLD stands for generic top-level domain, and refers to extensions like .COM, .NET, or any of the newer ones like .PHOTOS or .XYZ. Based on ICANN policy, all gTLDs require the same transfer process, which is different from ccTLDs.
ccTLDs are country code top-level domains, and are the two-letter extensions like .UK, .NZ, or .TV. All ccTLD registries can set their own policies and procedures, so if you have questions about transferring one of those, just let us know.
gTLD transfer renewal
gTLD transfers always include a one-year renewal, which is added to the current term so you never lose any paid registration period from your previous registrar. This is only billed when the transfer completes successfully. You will be emailed a notification and receipt when that's completed.
Transfer pricing differs among gTLDs, and you can check our transfer pricing here.
Check if your domain is eligible for transfer
Under specific circumstances, gTLD domains cannot be transferred because the registry has locked them:
- registered less than 60 days ago
- transferred to a new registrar less than 60 days ago
- owner/registrant details change less than 60 days ago (if the owner did not/could not opt out of the lock)
Please check that your domain does not meet any of those conditions before initiating the transfer. This is ICANN policy and unfortunately we are not able to circumvent it.
Unlock your domain
gTLD domains usually have a transfer lock enabled by default to protect them against unauthorized transfer. Before initiating the transfer, you need to unlock the domain, either in your current registrar’s control panel or by contacting their support team for assistance.
Get the domain's auth code
Also called transfer auth code, authorization code, EPP key, transfer key, or transfer password. Some registrars provide the auth code in their domain management interface, and some provide a method to request the auth code, which is then sent to the admin or registrant contact email address.
Sometimes the auth code is displayed in the customer's dashboard after unlocking the domain for transfer. Be sure to contact your current registrar's support team if you need help locating the auth code.
Start the domain transfer
Ok, now you're ready to start the transfer on our transfer page. Just enter the domain name in the field provided and click the blue cart button.
Enter the auth code
On the next page, enter your domain's auth code in the field provided, then click on the green Continue button and continue through the checkout process to start the transfer.
Because of changes when GDPR regulations came into effect, for gTLD domains, a transfer confirmation email is no longer required.
Transfer will complete automatically within 5-7 days
Once initiated, the transfer will complete automatically in 5-7 days. Some registrars provide a way to manually approve and complete the outgoing transfer right away via email or via their domain management interface. You would need to ask your old registrar if they offer that function. If your registrar does not support this function, the transfer will still automatically complete 5-7 days after initiation.
Transfer includes a 1 year renewal
gTLD transfers always include a 1 year renewal, which is added to the current term so you never lose any previously paid registration term. This is what the transfer fee covers (check our transfer fees here). It is only billed when the transfer completes successfully. You will then be emailed a notification and receipt.
Complete any changes or DNS setup
Once the domain has successfully transferred into our system, you can add DNS records in your domain dashboard or update its hosting nameservers. (Domains transfer with the nameservers that were in place at the previous registrar.)