Typical timelines
For typical domains coming from another registrar to Atom:
Fast path (hours): If the current registrar promptly approves the transfer-out, completion often happens the same day.
Normal path (1–3 days): Most transfers finish within a few days once payment verification is done.
Slow path (up to ~5–7 days): If the current registrar doesn’t manually approve, some transfers complete only after the full waiting window.
We’ll keep you updated and let you know if we need anything from you.
What can speed it up
Approval at the current registrar: Some registrars let the current registrant click Approve Transfer Out. If you or the seller can do that, it often completes much faster.
Clean pre-checks: Unlocked domain, DNSSEC (DS) removed if present, valid TAC, no legal holds.
Payment cleared quickly: AVS/CVV and fraud checks pass on the first try.
What can slow it down
Locked domain at the current registrar (clientTransferProhibited).
DNSSEC (DS) still present at the current registrar.
Invalid or expired TAC (transfer code).
60-day restriction due to recent registration/transfer/owner change.
Legal/registry holds (UDRP/URS/court/abuse).
Payment review (we’ll tell you if we need additional info).
Same-registrar (already at Atom)
If the domain is already registered at Atom, there’s no cross-registrar transfer. After payment clears, we move it into your Atom account—usually same day—and update contacts. Nameservers typically remain unchanged.
Payment Plan timing
A Payment Plan doesn’t slow the arrival of the domain into your Atom account. However, while the plan is active you’ll see Payment Lock — Payment Plan active, and unlock/TAC are hidden until the plan is paid in full (or you request and complete an early payoff).
When can I transfer out again?
We discourage moving again within 60 days for security. If you contact Support, we can allow an early transfer after payment is settled and standard checks pass (no legal/registry holds). We’ll give you the exact date when the standard window ends.
Status you’ll see
Transfer In Progress — we’re verifying payment and preparing the move from the current registrar to Atom.
Active — transfer complete; the domain is in your Atom account.
(If on Payment Plan) Payment Lock — Payment Plan active — unlock/TAC are hidden until paid in full; auto-renew stays ON.
If you need help
Questions about timing, DNS, or early transfer-out? Message Support. For details about Payment Plan rules, DNS continuity, and early transfer-out, see the Phase 2 (.COM) Customer FAQ.