Domain Transfer: Step by Step Without Issues
Domain transfer needs: EPP code, unlock, email confirmation. We explain the full process — with common mistakes and how to avoid them.
When Do You Need to Transfer Your Domain?
A domain transfer means changing the registrar that manages your domain. Common reasons include: high renewal prices at the current registrar, poor technical support, desire to consolidate domains and hosting under one provider, or moving to a registrar with better management tools.
A transfer does not change your website content or hosting. The site stays exactly as it is. Only the administrative entity responsible for the domain changes.
Before You Start: Transfer Requirements
- Domain is older than 60 days: ICANN prohibits transferring recently registered domains (less than 60 days old)
- Domain is unlocked: Domain Lock must be disabled before transfer
- WHOIS email is correct: The confirmation code is sent to the owner email registered in WHOIS
- Domain is not expired: Some registrars do not allow transferring expired domains
- No active disputes: If the domain is under a UDRP proceeding (ownership dispute), it cannot be transferred
Domain Transfer Steps in Detail
Step 1: Prepare the Domain for Transfer
Log into your current registrar's control panel and do the following:
- Disable Domain Lock (Transfer Lock)
- Verify that the WHOIS owner email is correct and accessible
- If WHOIS privacy is enabled, temporarily disable it (some registrars require this)
Step 2: Obtain the EPP Code (Authorization Code)
The EPP code is a unique password proving you own the domain and authorize the transfer. Request it from your current registrar via:
- The control panel (usually in the domain management section)
- A support ticket if it is not available automatically
Some registrars send the code via email immediately; others take 24-48 hours.
Step 3: Initiate the Transfer at the New Registrar
- Create an account at the new registrar (such as CLOUD at cloud.net.sa)
- Find the "Transfer Domain" option
- Enter the domain name and EPP code
- Pay the transfer fee (usually includes one additional year of renewal)
Step 4: Approve the Transfer
After submitting the transfer request, you receive two emails:
- From the new registrar: Confirmation that the transfer process has started
- From the old registrar: A request to approve or reject the transfer
Approve the transfer via the link in the email. If you take no action, the transfer completes automatically after 5 days (for most extensions).
Step 5: Verify Transfer Completion
After 5-7 days, verify that:
- The domain appears in the new registrar's control panel
- DNS settings remain unchanged (they should stay as they were)
- The website functions normally
- The expiration date has been extended by one year
Transferring .sa Domains
Saudi .sa domains have slightly different procedures compared to international domains:
| Item | International Domains (.com, .net) | .sa Domains |
|---|---|---|
| Verification code | EPP Code | Transfer code from SaudiNIC |
| Transfer duration | 5-7 days | 3-7 days |
| Governing body | ICANN | SaudiNIC (CST Commission) |
| Required documents | None additional | May require ID or commercial registration copy |
What Happens During the Transfer?
- Website stays online: The transfer changes the registrar only, not the server or DNS
- Email keeps working: MX records are not affected by the transfer
- DNS does not change: Unless you manually modify it after the transfer
- Validity is extended: One additional year is added to the current expiration date
Common Problems and Solutions
| Problem | Cause | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| Transfer rejected | Domain is locked or less than 60 days old | Unlock the domain and wait 60 days |
| Did not receive EPP code | WHOIS email incorrect or WHOIS privacy enabled | Update the email and temporarily disable privacy |
| Website went down after transfer | Nameservers changed accidentally | Restore Nameservers to previous values |
| Old registrar blocking transfer | Unlawful action — contact ICANN | File an ICANN Transfer Complaint |
Tips for a Safe Transfer
- Document current DNS settings before starting (screenshot or export)
- Do not change Nameservers during the transfer process
- Ensure the domain does not expire within the next two weeks
- Enable auto-renewal immediately at the new registrar
- Re-enable Domain Lock and WHOIS Privacy after the transfer completes
Conclusion
A domain transfer is a standard process that takes 5-7 days. The key is proper preparation: unlock the domain, obtain the EPP code, and verify WHOIS data accuracy. CLOUD (cloud.net.sa) offers smooth domain transfers with technical support to help you through every step.
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