How does IP address transfer work at APNIC?

APNIC supports transferring IP addresses (and AS numbers) between organizations in the Asia Pacific region, but a transfer is not a simple handover — it is a policy-controlled change of holder that must be assessed and recorded in the APNIC registry. Transfers generally apply when a resource needs to move to a different organization, such as during a merger, network restructuring, or reallocation of unused space. The exact requirements depend on whether the source and recipient are APNIC members, whether the resources are IPv4, IPv6, or ASNs, and whether the transfer is within the APNIC region or inter-RIR.

What an APNIC transfer actually changes

A transfer updates the registered holder of an IP address block or AS number. After approval, the resource is recorded against the recipient's account, and the original holder no longer has registry authority over it. This matters because APNIC registration data underpins routing, reverse DNS, and geolocation — so the transfer must be reflected in the registry, not just agreed between two parties.

Common transfer scenarios

• Mergers and acquisitions — the acquiring organization takes over address space held by the acquired entity.
• Network reorganization — a business restructures and moves resources to a different legal entity.
• Reallocating unused space — an organization with surplus addresses transfers them to one that needs them.
• Inter-RIR transfers — moving resources between APNIC and another Regional Internet Registry, subject to both registries' policies.

Basic requirements and conditions

• The transfer must comply with APNIC transfer policy, which sets eligibility and needs-based conditions.
• The recipient typically needs to demonstrate a legitimate need for the resources.
• Membership status matters: transfers often involve APNIC members, and non-members may need to become members or work through a member.
• Documentation is required — for example, evidence of the corporate transaction or the agreement between parties.
• Fees may apply. APNIC publishes billing and payment information, including a "Make a payment" page, so costs should be confirmed with APNIC rather than assumed.

How the process generally works

1. Confirm eligibility — check APNIC's current transfer policy for the resource type and the parties involved.
2. Prepare documentation — gather proof of need, corporate change, or the transfer agreement.
3. Submit the transfer request — through APNIC's processes, with the source holder's authorization.
4. APNIC assessment — APNIC reviews the request against policy and may request more information.
5. Registry update — once approved, APNIC records the new holder and updates related registry data.

What to verify before proceeding

• Whether the transfer is intra-RIR (within APNIC) or inter-RIR, since the rules differ.
• Whether the recipient qualifies under needs-based assessment.
• The current fees and membership implications, confirmed directly with APNIC.
• Any impact on reverse DNS, routing announcements, and geolocation data after the holder changes.

Because transfer policy and fees can change, the authoritative source is APNIC's own policy and membership documentation rather than second-hand summaries.