A domain transfer is the process of moving the registration and management of a domain name from one accredited registrar to another. Transfers are regulated by ICANN for gTLDs and must complete within 5–7 days once initiated. The domain continues to function normally throughout the process.
When to Transfer a Domain
- Better pricing at the new registrar.
- Consolidating all domains under one provider.
- Moving away from a registrar with poor support or security.
- Migrating to a registrar with stronger 2FA and security features.
The Transfer Process
- Unlock the domain — Domains have a transfer lock (also called registrar lock) that must be disabled at the current registrar.
- Get the Auth/EPP code — The current registrar provides a unique authorisation code (EPP code) to prove you authorise the transfer.
- Initiate at new registrar — Enter the domain name and EPP code at the new registrar and pay (transfers typically include a 1-year renewal).
- Approve the transfer — The current registrar or WHOIS email contact may need to approve.
- Wait 5–7 days — ICANN requires registrars to wait up to 7 days to complete the transfer (allowing the outgoing registrar to dispute it if fraudulent).
60-Day Lock
ICANN policy prohibits transfers within 60 days of initial registration or a previous transfer. This prevents domain hijacking via rapid serial transfers.
DNS During Transfer
DNS settings are separate from the registrar. DNS records and nameservers are unaffected by a registrar transfer — your website and email continue to function normally throughout.