How to Transfer Your Domain: FAQ and Requirements Guide

How to Transfer Your Domain: FAQ and Requirements Guide

By Michael Chen

February 15, 2025 at 04:23 PM

Domain transfers can be completed within 1-15 days, depending on your current provider. Before starting the transfer to Squarespace, ensure your domain meets these requirements:

  • Has a TLD supported by Squarespace
  • Is currently unlocked
  • Was registered/transferred more than 60 days ago

Key Points About Domain Transfers:

  • Cost: Free transfer + mandatory 1-year renewal fee (varies by TLD)
  • SSL: Included automatically when enabled on your website
  • Website Content: Not transferred - only domain hosting and DNS settings move
  • Email: MX records can transfer to maintain existing email service
  • Ownership: You retain full domain ownership after transfer

Important Considerations:

  • Temporary downtime may occur during transfer
  • Cannot extend registration during transfer process
  • Subdomains cannot be transferred individually
  • Email service may experience brief outages
  • DNSSEC records must be removed before transfer

After Transfer Completion:

  • Manage all domain settings through Squarespace
  • Clear browser cache to see updated website
  • Can create subdomains at no extra cost
  • May cancel previous provider account (after confirming no needed services)

If transfer fails, Squarespace will notify you by email and show the transfer as canceled in your domain dashboard. Contact support for troubleshooting assistance.

For domains nearing expiration, verify with your current provider that transfer is safe before proceeding. Most domains can transfer within their 30-day grace period after expiration.

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Note: Consider connecting instead of transferring if your domain cannot be transferred or needs to stay with current provider.

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