When you move to a new home, the modem is one of the things that goes into a box, but you shouldn't assume the connection will work at the new address on the same day. The answer to how to apply for an internet transfer comes down to a few basic steps that let you move your service to your new address without closing your subscription at the old one. Checking the infrastructure at the right time and submitting a complete application greatly reduces the risk of being left without internet after the move.

A transfer changes the service address of your existing internet subscription, so in most cases it is more practical than opening a new one. Still, the infrastructure at the new address may not be compatible with your current package or the technology you use. If you are moving from an address with fiber to a building that only has VDSL, your speed, modem requirements and installation plan may change.

How do you apply for an internet transfer?

The application channel varies by internet service provider, but the process usually starts online, through the mobile app, via customer service or at a sales point. For the fastest result, have the infrastructure at your new address checked before your moving date. This way you can see the packages available to you and find out early whether an installation is needed.

1. Check the infrastructure at the new address

The first and most important part of a transfer application is the infrastructure. Whether fiber, VDSL, ADSL or wireless internet is available at the new address directly determines the speed you can get. Building infrastructure can differ even within the same district, or even on the same street. So using 100 Mbps at your old address doesn't mean you will get the same speed in your new home.

Give your full address when checking: province, district, neighborhood, street, building number, apartment number and block, if there is one, must all be correct. Especially in new buildings or blocks within a housing complex, an incorrect address can delay the application even if infrastructure shows as available.

With providers like Tepenet that offer different connection technologies, suitable package options can be considered for your address based on the infrastructure result. Don't look only at download speed. For people working from home, joining online meetings or streaming, and for small businesses using cloud systems, upload speed and connection stability are also part of the decision.

2. Prepare your subscription and moving details

Before applying, have your current subscription number or service number ready. Your ID details, the new service address, your moving date and a phone number where you can be reached will also speed things up. If the subscription is in someone else's name, the transfer request generally has to be made by the subscription holder.

In some cases, identity verification or digital approval may be required. This can be completed through e-Devlet integration or the service provider's digital application steps. Check carefully any notifications sent to you when you start the application; a missing approval can prevent your request from being queued.

For business subscriptions, a tax number, authorized person details or company documents may also be requested. It is especially important for businesses moving offices not to leave the application to the last week, because in-building wiring, static IP, multiple users or special installation requirements can affect activation time.

3. Find out what your current package becomes at the new address

A transfer doesn't always mean the same package simply continues. If the new infrastructure doesn't support your current speed, you may need to switch to a different package. The reverse is also possible: if the new building has fiber, you may have the chance to move to a faster option.

At this stage, consider the monthly fee, any commitment terms, the modem situation and additional services together. Transferring a subscription with a commitment and cancelling it entirely to start a new one may not cost the same. But focusing only on the promotional price isn't the right approach either. Installation needs, activation timing and the realistic speed potential of the new address give you a more reliable comparison.

The modem matters too. The device you use for VDSL may not be sufficient for a fiber connection on its own. A fiber installation may require an optical network device and suitable connection equipment. During the application, confirm with your provider whether you can keep your current modem and, if not, which device will be provided.

4. Confirm the transfer request and schedule the appointment

Once the infrastructure and package details are clear, your transfer request is created. If the building has an active and suitable connection point, the process can be completed remotely or with a short on-site visit. For a new building, a new apartment or an address where internet hasn't been used before, a technician visit may be needed.

If you are given an appointment, it helps to have the subscription holder or an authorized family member at the address during the specified time window. The technical team may need access to the distribution box at the building entrance, the in-apartment wiring or the spot where the modem will be installed. If you are renting, talking to your landlord or building management in advance about things like drilling walls or extra cabling avoids possible delays.

Rather than expecting the internet to be on right away on moving day, it is more realistic to allow a few days' margin. Especially during busy moving periods, before public holidays or in areas with new buildings, field team scheduling may take longer. If possible, start your application 7-10 days before your moving date.

5. Test the connection after installation

Once activation is complete, check the internet light on your modem and try the connection on a few different devices. Don't focus only on the speed test result in your first test. How web pages load, the stability of video calls, Wi-Fi performance in different rooms and upload speed also reflect your everyday experience.

If the wireless connection seems slow, the problem isn't always the internet line. The modem's location, thick walls, older devices and crowded Wi-Fi networks nearby can all lower performance. Placing the modem in a central and as open a spot as possible in your home often makes a difference. For critical devices such as desktop computers, game consoles or POS terminals, use a wired connection whenever you can.

If you get results clearly below the expected speed after installation, first repeat the test on a device connected to the modem with a cable. Then share your modem model, connection type and the problem you're experiencing with the support team. Describing the problem clearly helps the right investigation happen faster.

6. Check the process at your old address

After your transfer is approved, keep the notification you received about the status of the service at your old address. In some cases, the connection there closes once service is active at the new address; in others, a different date may be scheduled for the old line. Checking your billing period, any device return conditions and your automatic payment instruction prevents unnecessary charge surprises.

If you have your own modem, adapter or extra network equipment at your old home, keep it in a separate place among your moving boxes. Searching for the device after you move can turn into a small but annoying delay on installation day. If you will be using a different device because of the new connection technology, be sure to ask whether the old equipment needs to be returned.

Things that delay transfer applications

Incorrectly written addresses, missing apartment numbers and leaving the infrastructure check until moving day are the most common causes of delay. In addition, in-building wiring not being ready, waiting for permission from building management or not completing the digital approval in the application can also drag out the process.

If no infrastructure shows up at your new building, don't rush to cancel your subscription. Ask about alternative technologies in the area, upcoming infrastructure work or wireless internet options. Depending on your needs, you can stay connected with a temporary solution and review your package again once a permanent infrastructure option becomes available.

Moving is also a good opportunity to rethink your internet habits. Find out about the infrastructure at your new address early, choose the package that fits your needs and plan your installation date. That way, instead of waiting for your first connection in your new home or workplace, you can start using your internet right away.