How to Check Whether a Domain Is Eligible for Transfer
Quick Answer
Before starting a transfer, confirm that the domain is active, unlocked, not restricted by a transfer lock or dispute, and eligible under the registry's rules. Make sure you can receive approval messages and obtain the EPP/Auth code when the TLD requires one.
Before You Begin
- Confirm the domain and registrant email are accessible.
- Record the current nameservers and DNS records.
- Check the domain's expiry date, lock status and any TLD-specific transfer rule.
NiceNIC Instructions
Before purchasing the transfer of any gTLD (e.g.,.COM /.NET /.ORG /.BIZ /.INFO etc.) or new gTLD (e.g..CLUB /.CLOUD /.TRADE /.TOP etc.), make sure your domain meets the following conditions:
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Your domain was registered or transferred at least 60 days ago;
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The domain is unlocked at the current Registrar (its WHOIS status should be OK or Active). Also,you need to request an up-to-date Auth/EPPcode for the domain at your current Registrar. If all criteria are met, you should be able to complete the transfer successfully. Still, some ccTLDs (.ES and.UK) have additional transfer requirements and/or exclude some points from the list above.
NOTE: Make sure the domain status is active, not expired. If you wish to transfer an expired domain to NiceNIC, please contact our Support Team email [email protected] for further assistance.
How to Verify
Check the transfer status in NiceNIC, confirm the registrar of record after completion, verify the authoritative nameservers, and test website and email resolution. Do not treat payment alone as proof that the transfer completed.
Troubleshooting
- The domain is locked, too new, recently transferred or otherwise restricted by policy.
- The EPP/Auth code is missing, expired or copied incorrectly.
- The approval email cannot be received or the registrant data is under verification.
- The domain or related DNS service expires while the transfer is pending.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does a transfer change my nameservers?
A registrar transfer normally keeps the current nameservers, but you should record and verify them before and after the transfer.
Can I edit the domain while a transfer is pending?
Some settings may be restricted during a pending transfer. Avoid unnecessary ownership, lock or DNS changes until the transfer completes.
When should I submit a ticket?
Submit a ticket when the status is unclear, a TLD uses a special transfer process, or the transfer remains blocked after you correct the stated issue.
Related NiceNIC Guides
- How to Unlock a Domain Before Transfer
- How to Transfer a Domain to NiceNIC
- How to Transfer a Domain Without Website or Email Downtime
- Why Your Domain Transfer Is Pending, Failed, or Delayed
If the issue continues after you complete the checks above, submit a NiceNIC support ticket with the affected domain or product, the exact error message, the time of the issue and the troubleshooting already completed.






