How to Transfer a Domain to Hostinger (2026 Guide)
Transferring a domain to Hostinger takes 5-7 days and costs one year of renewal. Unlock your domain at the current registrar, get the EPP authorization code, initiate the transfer in Hostinger's dashboard, and approve the confirmation email. DNS continues working throughout the process.
Before You Transfer: Checklist
Before initiating a domain transfer, make sure:
- Your domain was registered more than 60 days ago (ICANN requirement)
- The domain is unlocked at your current registrar
- You have the EPP/authorization code from your current registrar
- Your WHOIS email is valid and accessible — you'll receive a confirmation email
- Auto-renewal is disabled at the current registrar to avoid double billing
Also note your current DNS records. While DNS typically survives a transfer unchanged, it's good practice to screenshot or export your records as a backup.
Step-by-Step Domain Transfer Process
Step 1: Unlock the domain at your current registrar. Look for 'Domain Lock' or 'Transfer Lock' in the domain settings.
Step 2: Get the EPP code. This is sometimes called an authorization code or transfer key. Your registrar will email it or display it in the dashboard.
Step 3: Start the transfer at Hostinger. Go to Domains → Transfer in hPanel, enter your domain and EPP code.
Step 4: Pay the transfer fee. The cost equals one year of registration, effectively extending your domain by a year.
Step 5: Approve the transfer. Check your WHOIS contact email for a confirmation link. Click to approve. Some registrars also send a 'release' confirmation.
Step 6: Wait 5-7 days. The transfer processes through ICANN. Your website stays live throughout — DNS records carry over.
Common Transfer Issues and Fixes
Transfer denied: Usually means the domain is still locked or the EPP code is wrong. Double-check both at your current registrar.
No confirmation email: Check your WHOIS contact email (not your account email). Update it at the current registrar if needed, then wait 24 hours before retrying.
60-day lock: ICANN requires a 60-day wait after registration or a previous transfer. If your domain was recently registered or transferred, you must wait.
DNS disruption: Rare but possible if nameservers change during transfer. Set Hostinger's nameservers in your DNS records before initiating if you plan to use Hostinger hosting.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does a domain transfer to Hostinger take?
Most transfers complete in 5-7 days. Some complete faster if the losing registrar auto-approves quickly. The maximum allowed by ICANN is 7 days.
Will my website go down during the transfer?
No. DNS records are preserved during a domain transfer. Your website and email continue working normally throughout the process. Only nameserver changes can cause temporary disruption.
How much does it cost to transfer a domain to Hostinger?
The transfer fee equals one year of registration at standard rates (e.g., $15.99 for .com). This extends your domain registration by one year, so you're paying for renewal — not a separate transfer fee.
Can I transfer a domain that expires soon?
Yes, and you should. The transfer adds one year to your current expiration date. Transferring a domain that's about to expire effectively renews it at the new registrar.
What is an EPP code and where do I find it?
An EPP code (also called an authorization code or transfer key) is a unique password that authorizes a domain transfer. Find it in your current registrar's domain settings, usually under 'Transfer' or 'Security'. Some registrars email it to you upon request.
Transfer Your Domain to Hostinger
Free WHOIS privacy, one-panel management, and a year of renewal included with your transfer.
Register Your DomainHenry Fontaine
Chief of Staff & COO, RocketLabs
AI-native operator building the future of search visibility. Part of the team behind 3 tech exits and 400+ programmatic SEO deployments.