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Understanding IPv4 Transfer Policies Across RIRs

February 23, 2026
ipv4.center Team
Understanding IPv4 Transfer Policies Across RIRs

IPv4 Transfer Policies by Region

Each Regional Internet Registry (RIR) has its own policies governing IPv4 address transfers. Understanding these policies is crucial for successful transactions.

RIPE NCC

RIPE has a relatively straightforward transfer policy:

  • No needs assessment required for transfers
  • 24-month holding period before re-transfer
  • Both parties must be RIPE members or have a sponsoring LIR
  • Inter-RIR transfers supported with ARIN and APNIC

ARIN

ARIN transfers involve more requirements:

  • Recipient must demonstrate need (needs assessment)
  • 8.3 transfers (without needs assessment) available for /24 or larger from organizations shutting down
  • 8.4 transfers available with needs justification
  • Inter-RIR transfers supported

APNIC

APNIC transfer policy:

  • No needs assessment for intra-APNIC transfers
  • Both parties must be APNIC account holders
  • Inter-RIR transfers supported with ARIN and RIPE
  • 12-month holding period

LACNIC & AFRINIC

Both registries have more restrictive transfer policies, with LACNIC requiring needs justification and AFRINIC currently having limited transfer mechanisms.

Inter-RIR Transfers

Transferring IPv4 addresses between different RIR regions is possible but involves policies from both registries. The process typically takes longer and requires compliance with both sets of rules.

Our platform handles the complexity of different transfer policies, ensuring compliance regardless of the registries involved.

transfer policyRIPEARINAPNICRIR