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Domain Transfer Process

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Updated on August 26, 2026
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Domain transfer

Transferring a domain to HostNil is straightforward. The exact steps vary a little between extensions, because each registry has its own rules, but for most domains the process is the same two preparations followed by an order.

Before you order: two things to prepare #

  1. Unlock the domain at your current provider. This is normally a switch in their control panel, sometimes labelled Registrar Lock or Transfer Lock. If you cannot find it, ask their support to unlock it for you.
  2. Get the EPP code, also called the authorisation code or auth code. It is usually shown in the same control panel. If it is not, open a ticket with your current provider and they will send it, generally to the registrant email address on file.

Make sure the email address on the domain’s WHOIS record is one you can actually read. Transfer approval messages are sent there, and a transfer will stall if nobody sees them.

Placing the order #

1. Start the transfer at clients.hostnil.com/cart.php?a=add&domain=transfer and enter your domain with the EPP code.

Domain transfer form

2. Click Add to Cart, then Continue. Choose any of the three domain options you want — see ordering a domain for what each one does — then Checkout.

3. If you are new to HostNil, choose Create a New Account and enter your details. Pick a payment method, accept the terms and place the order.

4. Pay. The transfer begins shortly after the payment clears.

What to expect #

  • You gain a year. A transfer adds twelve months to the existing registration. If three months were left, you will have one year and three months afterwards.
  • It takes 5 to 7 days for most extensions. During that window the domain cannot be managed and the nameservers cannot be changed, so make any DNS changes you need before starting.
  • The domain must be at least 60 days old. Registries block transfers within 60 days of registration, and also within 60 days of a previous transfer. There is no way around this, so wait until the period has passed.
  • Approve the confirmation email. Some transfers wait on an approval message sent to the registrant address. If nothing happens after a few days, check that inbox and its spam folder.
  • Your website keeps working. A transfer changes who the domain is registered through, not where it is hosted. As long as the nameservers stay the same, the site and email carry on.

Check current transfer prices on our domain price list. If a transfer stalls or you cannot get the EPP code, contact us and we will help.