Overview
Migrating or transferring domains to the .CO Registry involves a structured process using EPP transfer commands and authInfo (authorisation) codes. Understanding each step prevents failed transfers and customer disruption.
Transfer Process
- The registrant obtains the authInfo code from the current (losing) Registrar.
- If the domain has clientTransferProhibited status, the losing Registrar must remove it first.
- The registrant provides the authInfo code to the new (gaining) Registrar.
- The gaining Registrar submits a transfer request to the .CO Registry via EPP using the authInfo code.
- The Registry notifies the losing Registrar of the transfer request.
- The losing Registrar has 5 calendar days to approve or reject. After 5 days, the transfer is automatically approved.
- Once approved, the domain is transferred within 60 seconds.
Key Rules
- Minimum renewal on transfer: 1 year. The system automatically applies this — Registrars do not need to submit a separate Renew command.
- Registration Hold Period: Newly registered domains cannot be transferred for 60 days.
- Transfer Hold Period: After a successful transfer, the domain cannot be transferred again for 60 days.
- Registrars must provide authInfo codes to registrants upon request.
Subordinate Host Objects
When a domain transfer is approved, any in-bailiwick host objects (nameservers subordinate to that domain) are automatically transferred to the gaining Registrar.