How do I check the status of my domain transfer?

Checking the Status of Your Domain Transfer

After initiating a domain transfer to dotCanada.com, you may want to check its progress. This guide explains how to check your domain transfer status and what the different status messages mean.

Domain Transfer Process Overview

Before checking status, it's helpful to understand the typical transfer process:

1. Transfer Initiation: You submit a transfer request and pay the transfer fee
2. Authorization Request: The domain's administrative contact receives an email requesting approval
3. Authorization Confirmation: The admin contact approves the transfer (must be done within 5-7 days)
4. Registrar Processing: The current registrar processes the transfer (can take up to 5-7 days)
5. Transfer Completion: The domain is transferred to dotCanada.com

Checking Transfer Status in WHMCS

1. Log in to the WHMCS Client Area at https://clients.dotcanada.com/login
2. Go to Domains > My Domains
3. Look for your domain in the list - it should show the current status
4. Click on the domain name to view detailed information
5. The Status field will indicate the current transfer status
6. Additional information may be available in the Notes or Information section

Understanding Transfer Status Messages

Common Reasons for Transfer Delays or Failures

If your transfer is taking longer than expected or has failed, it may be due to one of these issues:

• Domain lock is still enabled: The domain must be unlocked at the current registrar
• Privacy protection is active: Privacy/WHOIS protection must be disabled at the current registrar
• Incorrect authorization code (EPP): The transfer code provided is invalid or expired
• Domain was recently registered: Domains must be at least 60 days old to transfer
• Domain was recently renewed: Some TLDs restrict transfers shortly after renewal
• Transfer not authorized: The authorization email was not approved in time
• Incorrect WHOIS information: The admin contact email is outdated or incorrect
• Current registrar denial: The current registrar rejected the transfer request

Checking Transfer Authorization Email

One of the most common transfer issues is missing the authorization email:

1. Check the email address listed as the administrative contact in your domain's WHOIS record
2. Look in your email inbox, spam, and junk folders for messages from:
   • Your current registrar
   • transfers@dotcanada.com
   • Emails containing "domain transfer" in the subject
3. The email will contain a link or instructions to approve the transfer
4. You must approve the transfer within the timeframe specified (usually 5-7 days)

What to Do If Your Transfer is Stuck

If your transfer seems stuck or has been pending for more than 7 days:

1. First, verify that you've approved any authorization emails
2. Log in to your WHMCS Client Area
3. Submit a support ticket with the following information:
   • Domain name being transferred
   • Date the transfer was initiated
   • Current registrar name
   • Whether you received and approved the authorization email
   • Any error messages you've received
4. Our domain team will investigate and provide guidance

Cancelling a Pending Transfer

If you need to cancel a transfer that's still in progress:

1. Log in to the WHMCS Client Area
2. Go to Domains > My Domains
3. Click on the domain with the pending transfer
4. Look for a Cancel Transfer option
5. If you don't see this option, contact our support team to request cancellation

If you need assistance with your domain transfer or have questions about its status, please contact our support team.