How to Transfer Apps on Apple

Transferring apps on Apple is essential when a developer sells an app or needs to move it to another account or organization in App Store Connect. This process ensures the app remains available for download while retaining its App Store reviews and ratings.

Overview of App Transfers on Apple

App transfers allow you to:

• Keep the app’s Bundle ID, which cannot be changed after a version is uploaded.
• Preserve reviews and ratings.
• Ensure users continue receiving future updates.

1. Check the Transfer Requirements

The app must meet all the criteria below:

• Neither account, the transferor’s or the recipient’s, can be pending or in transition.
• Agreements for paid and free apps must be up to date.
• The app must have at least one version approved for distribution.
• It cannot be available for pre-order in any country or region.
• Statuses such as "Pending Distribution" or "Waiting for Review" must be resolved before the transfer.
• Beta testing through TestFlight must be disabled, with builds and testers removed.
• Xcode Cloud data related to the app must be deleted.

2. Back Up the App Information

Before the transfer, save:

• App metadata, including the description, prices, and availability dates.
• Sales and download information.
• In-app purchase settings.

3. Start the Transfer

Only the Account Holder can start the process:

1. Sign in to App Store Connect and select the app.
2. Go to App Information under the General tab.
3. Scroll down to the Additional Information section and click Transfer App.
4. Enter the recipient account’s Apple ID and Team ID.
5. Confirm the terms and click Request Transfer.

Once the process begins, the app’s status changes to "Waiting for Transfer," and the transferor can no longer edit metadata, prices, or in-app purchases.

4. Accept the Transfer

The recipient must accept the transfer within 60 days:

1. Sign in to App Store Connect and go to the Business section.
2. Click Review in the App Transfers area.
3. Update the metadata, such as support and privacy URLs.
4. Set access permissions for team members.
5. Review and agree to the terms, then click Accept.

Completion Process

• The transfer can take up to two business days.
• Export compliance documents may be required in some cases.
• Once the transfer is complete, the app disappears from the transferor’s account.

Canceling a Transfer

Either the transferor or the recipient can cancel while the app is in the "Waiting for Recipient" state. To do so, click Cancel Transfer.

Reference link: FAQ on the Apple Developer website

Read also: Mobile App Development