What Is an Inter-RIR Transfer?
An inter-RIR transfer moves IPv4 address space between two different Regional Internet Registries (e.g., from RIPE NCC to ARIN, or from APNIC to RIPE). Unlike intra-RIR transfers where both parties are in the same region, inter-RIR transfers must comply with the policies of both registries involved.
Which Inter-RIR Transfers Are Possible?
| From | To RIPE | To ARIN | To APNIC | To LACNIC | To AFRINIC |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| RIPE | - | Yes | Yes | No | No |
| ARIN | Yes | - | Yes | Yes | No |
| APNIC | Yes | Yes | - | No | No |
| LACNIC | No | Yes | No | - | No |
| AFRINIC | No | No | No | No | - |
RIPE to ARIN Transfer
Key Differences from Intra-RIR
- ARIN needs assessment: The receiving party under ARIN must justify need for the addresses (unlike RIPE where no needs assessment is required)
- Dual compliance: Must satisfy both RIPE ripe-713 and ARIN NRPM Section 8.4
- Longer timeline: Typically 4-8 weeks due to coordination between registries
- Additional documentation: Both RIRs require their own forms and verifications
Process Overview
- Buyer and seller agree on terms and sign a transfer agreement
- The source (RIPE) holder initiates the transfer at RIPE NCC
- The recipient submits a transfer request at ARIN with needs justification
- Both RIRs coordinate to verify the transfer
- RIPE removes the registration; ARIN creates the new registration
- Transfer is complete when both registries confirm
ARIN to RIPE Transfer
The reverse process follows similar principles:
- The ARIN holder initiates the outbound transfer
- The RIPE recipient (must be a RIPE member or have a sponsoring LIR) submits the inbound request
- No needs assessment required on the RIPE side
- Both RIRs coordinate and verify
- Typically faster than RIPE-to-ARIN because RIPE does not require needs justification
RIPE to/from APNIC Transfers
Transfers between RIPE and APNIC follow a similar bilateral process:
- APNIC does not require needs assessment for inbound transfers
- Both parties must be members of their respective RIR
- APNIC has a 12-month holding period (vs. RIPE's 24 months)
- Timeline is typically 3-6 weeks
Timeline Comparison
| Transfer Type | Typical Duration |
|---|---|
| RIPE to RIPE (Intra-RIR) | 5-10 business days |
| RIPE to ARIN | 4-8 weeks |
| ARIN to RIPE | 3-6 weeks |
| RIPE to APNIC | 3-6 weeks |
| APNIC to RIPE | 3-5 weeks |
Tips for Smooth Inter-RIR Transfers
- Plan ahead: Inter-RIR transfers take significantly longer than intra-RIR
- Prepare ARIN justification early: If transferring to ARIN, have your needs documentation ready
- Use an experienced broker: Inter-RIR transfers are complex and benefit from expert guidance
- Use our contract generator: Our Transfer Contract Generator supports inter-RIR scenarios
Need to move IP addresses between regions? Contact us for expert assistance with your inter-RIR transfer.