RIR Transfer Policies Are Not Equal
While RIPE NCC and ARIN have well-established and relatively flexible IPv4 transfer frameworks, the other three RIRs - APNIC, LACNIC, and AFRINIC - each have distinct rules that significantly affect how (and whether) IPv4 addresses can be transferred.
APNIC (Asia Pacific)
Key Features
- No needs assessment for intra-APNIC transfers since 2014
- 12-month holding period before re-transfer (shorter than RIPE's 24 months)
- Both parties must be APNIC account holders
- Minimum transferable block: /24
- Inter-RIR transfers supported with ARIN and RIPE
Process
APNIC transfers are initiated through the MyAPNIC portal. Both source and recipient submit their parts of the transfer request. APNIC staff verify and process. Typical timeline: 5-15 business days for intra-APNIC.
LACNIC (Latin America and Caribbean)
Key Features
- Needs assessment required - recipient must justify need for the addresses
- Transfer policy is more restrictive than RIPE or APNIC
- Inter-RIR transfers only supported with ARIN
- Both parties must be LACNIC members
- Historical use documentation may be required
Process
LACNIC transfers require formal application with justification documentation. The review process is more thorough, typically taking 15-30 business days. The needs assessment adds complexity but ensures efficient use of addresses.
AFRINIC (Africa)
Key Features
- Most restrictive transfer policies of all five RIRs
- Inter-RIR transfers are not supported
- Intra-AFRINIC transfers have significant requirements
- Ongoing policy discussions may lead to changes
- Limited secondary market activity
Process
AFRINIC transfers involve extensive verification and can take 15-45 business days. The lack of inter-RIR transfer support means AFRINIC addresses cannot be moved to other regions.
Comparison Table
| Feature | APNIC | LACNIC | AFRINIC |
|---|---|---|---|
| Needs Assessment | No | Yes | Yes |
| Holding Period | 12 months | 12 months | Varies |
| Inter-RIR to RIPE | Yes | No | No |
| Inter-RIR to ARIN | Yes | Yes | No |
| Typical Duration | 5-15 days | 15-30 days | 15-45 days |
| Market Activity | High | Moderate | Low |
Practical Implications for Buyers
If you need IPv4 addresses and your organization is in the APNIC region, you benefit from a flexible transfer policy similar to RIPE. For LACNIC and AFRINIC regions, plan for longer timelines and additional documentation requirements.
IPv4.center supports transfers across all RIR regions. Browse our marketplace to find addresses in your region, or contact us for guidance on region-specific transfers.