How to Transfer Domain from GoDaddy to Hostinger: Complete Step-by-Step Guide (2025)

If you’re reading this, chances are you already own a domain name on GoDaddy and are now considering moving it to Hostinger for better management, pricing, and performance. Many U.S. website owners and small business owners search for how to transfer a domain from GoDaddy to Hostinger because Hostinger offers more affordable domain renewals, simpler dashboards, and faster website hosting integration.

This detailed guide explains exactly how to transfer your domain name from GoDaddy to Hostinger, step-by-step — even if you have zero technical experience. You’ll also learn about transfer fees, timelines, DNS changes, and key things to check before you start.

Let’s simplify this process together so you can complete your domain transfer safely, quickly, and without downtime.

Why Transfer Your Domain from GoDaddy to Hostinger?

Before diving into the process, it’s important to understand why so many users choose to move their domains from GoDaddy to Hostinger.

1. Better Renewal Prices

GoDaddy domains often start cheap but become expensive during renewal. Hostinger usually offers lower renewal costs, plus bundle discounts for web hosting and SSL certificates.

2. Unified Dashboard

Hostinger allows you to manage domains, DNS, hosting, and emails in one simple panel. For beginners or business owners managing multiple sites, this reduces confusion and saves time.

3. Free WHOIS Privacy

Unlike GoDaddy, where WHOIS privacy is often an add-on, Hostinger includes it for free, keeping your personal data private.

4. Smooth Transfer Process

Hostinger automates much of the domain transfer work — including DNS updates and registrar locks — making it beginner-friendly.

5. Excellent Customer Support

Hostinger provides 24/7 live chat support with real-time help during your transfer — something that can be slower on GoDaddy’s platform.

Step-by-Step: How to Transfer a Domain from GoDaddy to Hostinger

Let’s break it down in simple, actionable steps you can follow.

Step 1: Prepare Your Domain for Transfer on GoDaddy

Before transferring, GoDaddy requires that your domain be eligible for transfer and unlocked. Here’s how:

1. Login to GoDaddy.

2. Navigate to “Domains” → “My Products.”

3. Choose the domain you want to transfer.

4. Under “Additional Settings”, click “Domain Lock” and switch it Off.
   This allows the domain to be moved to another registrar.

5. Next, find your Authorization Code (EPP Code):

   • Go to Domain Settings → Get Authorization Code.

   • GoDaddy will email the EPP code to your registered email address.

6. Check your contact information (email must be valid because verification will be sent there).

✅ Tip: Your domain must be older than 60 days to be transferable per ICANN rules.

Step 2: Disable Privacy Protection (if enabled)

If you’ve enabled domain privacy protection, you need to turn it off temporarily before transferring.

• Go to Domain Settings → Privacy Protection.

• Click Turn Off.

• This will make your contact info visible for the transfer validation process.

Once the transfer is completed, Hostinger will re-enable privacy protection automatically.

Step 3: Check Domain Status & Eligibility

Your domain must meet the following requirements:

Requirement	Details
Domain Age	Must be registered for at least 60 days
Domain Lock	Must be OFF
Authorization Code	Required
Privacy Protection	Disabled during transfer
Contact Email	Must be active

If all boxes are checked, you’re ready to proceed.

Step 4: Initiate the Transfer in Hostinger

1. Go to the Hostinger Domain Transfer Page.

2. Enter your domain name (e.g., mywebsite.com) and click Transfer.

3. You’ll be prompted to enter your EPP code (authorization code from GoDaddy).

4. Proceed to checkout — the transfer cost typically equals one year of renewal.

💡 Example: If your domain is example.com expiring in 2 months, transferring to Hostinger will add one more year to your domain registration automatically.

Step 5: Confirm the Transfer Request via Email

After checkout, you’ll receive two confirmation emails:

1. From GoDaddy – asking if you approve or deny the transfer.

   • Click Approve Transfer to speed up the process.

2. From Hostinger – confirming the transfer request.

   • Click the confirmation link provided.

Once approved, your domain will start transferring automatically.

Step 6: Wait for the Transfer to Complete

The domain transfer typically takes 5–7 days to complete.

During this time:

• Your website and email remain active.

• You can monitor transfer progress from your Hostinger Dashboard under Domains → Pending Transfers.

After successful completion, you’ll receive an email confirming the transfer.

Step 7: Update DNS and Nameservers (Optional)

Once the domain transfer is done, you can set your DNS records or nameservers within Hostinger.

Default Hostinger nameservers:

ns1.dns-parking.com ns2.dns-parking.com

If you’re hosting with Hostinger, use these.
If you’re hosting elsewhere, add the relevant nameservers under DNS Settings.

✅ Within 24–48 hours, DNS propagation completes and your site will load from Hostinger.

What Happens After the Domain Transfer?

After completion:

• Your domain is now fully managed on Hostinger.

• Renewal will occur via Hostinger going forward.

• WHOIS protection reactivates.

• You’ll gain access to Hostinger’s free email, DNS zone editor, and security tools.

If you’re looking for the best savings on your domain transfer, don’t miss checking for a hostinger domain coupon code today. It can help you save up to 50% on registration and transfer fees while enjoying free WHOIS protection and DNS management.

Troubleshooting Common Domain Transfer Issues

1. Didn’t Receive EPP Code

Check your GoDaddy account’s registered email (including spam folder). You can also resend the code through Domain Settings → Get Authorization Code.

2. Domain Locked Again

Sometimes GoDaddy re-enables the lock automatically. Double-check it’s unlocked before restarting the transfer.

3. Transfer Stuck for Days

Wait for the full 7-day period. If it exceeds that, contact Hostinger support; they can expedite the process manually.

4. Wrong Contact Email

Update your contact info on GoDaddy and re-initiate the transfer. ICANN requires valid contact data for verification.

5. Privacy Still Enabled

Make sure privacy is disabled; otherwise, the verification emails won’t reach you.

Domain Transfer Cost & Timeline Comparison (GoDaddy vs Hostinger)

Feature	GoDaddy	Hostinger
Domain Transfer Fee	$11.99+	$9.99 (with free 1-year renewal)
WHOIS Privacy	Paid Add-on	Free
DNS Management	Basic	Advanced & Free
Transfer Time	5–7 Days	4–6 Days
24/7 Support	Yes (Phone + Chat)	Yes (Live Chat)

✅ Verdict: Hostinger offers a smoother, cheaper, and faster transfer process, especially for users who want free privacy and DNS tools.

Pro Tips Before Transferring a Domain

1. Backup DNS records before starting the transfer.

2. Avoid transferring right before your domain expires.

3. Renew early if you’re close to expiration; then transfer.

4. Disable auto-renew on GoDaddy after the transfer completes.

5. Use Hostinger’s email migration if you were using GoDaddy email hosting.

Checklist Summary

✅ Task	Status
Unlock domain at GoDaddy	✔️
Obtain EPP code	✔️
Disable privacy	✔️
Confirm contact email	✔️
Start transfer at Hostinger	✔️
Approve email confirmations	✔️
Wait for 5–7 days	✔️
Update DNS	✔️

Once all steps are completed, your domain is officially transferred and fully operational under Hostinger.

People also ask 

How long does it take to transfer a domain from GoDaddy to Hostinger?

It usually takes 5–7 days. Approving the transfer email can make it faster.

Do I lose my website or emails during the transfer?

No, your site and email remain active as long as DNS settings are not changed.

Is there a fee to transfer a domain to Hostinger?

Yes, you pay for one year of renewal, but Hostinger often includes discounts or coupons.

Can I transfer a domain that was just registered?

You must wait 60 days from the date of registration before transferring, per ICANN rules.

What happens to my GoDaddy account after the transfer?

The domain disappears from your GoDaddy dashboard, but your GoDaddy account remains open.

Will WHOIS privacy remain enabled after transfer?

Yes, Hostinger automatically re-enables privacy once the transfer completes.

Can I cancel a domain transfer once started?

Yes, you can cancel from either registrar before final approval.

What if I entered the wrong EPP code?

Hostinger will notify you. Simply re-enter the correct authorization code.

Do I get free domain renewal after transfer?

Yes, the transfer fee includes one year of extension to your domain validity.

Is transferring multiple domains allowed?

Absolutely. Hostinger allows bulk domain transfers, often with additional discounts.

Conclusion: Move Your Domain to Hostinger with Confidence

Transferring your domain from GoDaddy to Hostinger may sound complex, but it’s actually a straightforward 7-step process once you understand the flow. You’ll enjoy:

• Lower renewal costs

• Free WHOIS privacy

• Integrated hosting and DNS tools

• Easier management from one dashboard

If you’re planning to upgrade your website’s performance and security, moving your domain to Hostinger is one of the smartest, most cost-effective decisions you can make in 2025.

Take a few minutes to prepare, use your EPP code, apply a hostinger domain coupon code today, and start your transfer smoothly.

Your online presence deserves better — and Hostinger gives you just that. 🚀