How Long Does It Take For A Domain To Transfer ?

Transferring a domain from one registrar to another is a common task for website owners, but many people get confused about the timeline, process, and factors that affect transfer speed. If you’ve ever asked, “How long does it take for a domain to transfer?”, you’re in the right place. This guide explains everything in simple, practical terms so you know what to expect and how to speed up the process.

What Is a Domain Transfer?

A domain transfer is the process of moving a domain name from one registrar to another. It’s useful when:

• You want better pricing or features
• You’re consolidating domains under one account
• You’re switching to a registrar with better support

Key Entities in a Domain Transfer:

• Current Registrar: The company where your domain is currently registered
• New Registrar: The company you want to transfer your domain to
• Domain Name: The actual web address (example: example.com)
• Authorization Code (EPP code): A unique code needed to authorize the transfer

Standard Timeline for a Domain Transfer

The exact duration depends on the domain extension (TLD) and registrar policies. Here’s a general timeline:

1. Preparation (Immediate – 1 Day)

• Unlock the domain at the current registrar
• Obtain the authorization (EPP) code
• Make sure the domain is not expired or recently transferred (domains cannot be transferred within 60 days of registration or a previous transfer due to ICANN rules)

2. Initiating the Transfer (1–2 Days)

• Submit the transfer request to the new registrar
• Provide the EPP code
• Pay any required transfer fees

3. Registrar Approval (1–5 Days)

• Current registrar may send an email to confirm the transfer
• Domain owner approval is required
• Some registrars approve instantly; others take a few days

4. Transfer Completion (5–7 Days Standard)

• ICANN rules allow up to 7 days for most generic TLDs (like .com, .net) to complete
• Once complete, the domain is managed entirely by the new registrar

In total: Most domain transfers take 5–7 days, though some may complete in less than 24 hours if both registrars have fast processes.

Factors That Affect Domain Transfer Speed

1. Domain Lock Status

• Domains are often locked to prevent unauthorized transfers
• Unlocking it is mandatory before initiating a transfer

2. Registrar Policies

• Some registrars process transfers quickly
• Others require manual approval or additional verification, which can add a few days

3. Domain Age & Restrictions

• Newly registered domains (less than 60 days old) cannot be transferred
• Domains that were transferred in the last 60 days are also restricted

4. Email Verification

• Most transfers require confirmation via the domain owner’s email
• Delays happen if the email is outdated or not accessed

5. Domain Extension (TLD)

• Generic TLDs like .com or .net usually transfer faster
• Country-code TLDs (like .uk or .ca) may have additional rules, sometimes taking up to 10 days

How to Check Domain Transfer Status

You can track your domain transfer at both registrars:

• New registrar: Most provide a transfer status page
• Current registrar: You may see notifications about the pending transfer
• WHOIS Lookup: Check the registrar listed; once the transfer completes, the new registrar appears

Common Issues That Delay Domain Transfers

1. Domain is Locked – Make sure you unlock the domain in your account settings.
2. Incorrect EPP Code – Double-check the authorization code before submitting.
3. Expired Domain – Renew the domain before transferring.
4. Email Problems – Confirm the administrative contact email is current.
5. Registrar Restrictions – Some registrars impose extra verification steps.

Pro Tip: Start the transfer well before your domain expires to avoid downtime.

How to Speed Up a Domain Transfer

• Unlock the domain early before initiating the transfer
• Verify your contact email and update it if necessary
• Request the EPP code immediately
• Respond to confirmation emails promptly
• Choose a registrar with a fast transfer reputation

After the Transfer

Once the domain is transferred:

• Check that DNS records are intact (your website and email should continue working)
• Update contact information with the new registrar
• Set up auto-renewal to prevent accidental expiration

Domain Transfer vs Domain Update

It’s important not to confuse a domain transfer with a domain update:

• Transfer: Moves the domain from one registrar to another
• Update: Changes ownership information, contact details, or DNS settings without moving the registrar

Transfers usually take days, while updates are almost instantaneous.

Conclusion

So, how long does it take for a domain to transfer?

• Typically, 5–7 days for most generic domains
• Can be faster (less than 24 hours) if both registrars process quickly
• Can take longer due to domain restrictions, email verification, or TLD rules

By preparing in advance—unlocking the domain, obtaining the EPP code, and ensuring correct contact info—you can make the process smooth and avoid delays.