Transferring a Domain
A domain transfer moves the registration from one registrar to another. It does not move the website, database or email service. DNS can remain unchanged during the transfer when the same nameservers stay assigned.
Prepare the domain
- Confirm that the domain is eligible for transfer and not restricted by a recent registration, transfer or contact change.
- Check that the registrant and account contact details are current.
- Save the current nameservers, DNS records and renewal date.
- Unlock the domain and request its authorisation code when the domain type uses one.
- Keep access to both registrar accounts until the transfer is complete.
Start and approve the transfer
- Begin the transfer with the new registrar and enter the domain and authorisation code.
- Review the renewal terms and any confirmation messages from both registrars.
- Approve the transfer where requested, then leave DNS unchanged while it is being processed.
- After completion, confirm the nameservers, contact details, renewal settings and domain lock at the new registrar.
The process and timing vary by domain extension and registrar. If you also intend to move the website, plan that separately with Website Migrations.
Common questions
Frequently Asked Questions
Will my website go offline during a domain transfer?
It should remain available when the existing nameservers and DNS records stay in place. Changing DNS at the same time introduces a separate risk of interruption.
Does transferring a domain also move its email?
No. Email remains with its current provider as long as the required DNS records stay active.
What is an authorisation code?
It is a code used to confirm that the domain holder has approved a transfer. It may also be called an auth code, EPP code or transfer key.
Why can I not unlock or transfer the domain?
The domain may be subject to a transfer lock, recent-change restriction, expiry state or extension-specific rule. The current registrar can confirm the exact reason.