Legacy PoW → PoS Migration ​

• Validator

  Pre-registration

  How to be prepared to join the first epoch as a validator and earn rewards from the very beginning
• Node Operators

  Be part of the migration

• Learn more

  Deep dive into the technical details

• FAQ

  Check our FAQs for more information

• PoS

  Curious about the new PoS? Check the protocol

Understanding the Migration ​

Nimiq completed the transition from a Proof-of-Work to a Proof-of-Stake blockchain through a special hard fork. The transition process included several key phases:

• Pre-registration Phase: Establishes the first list of validators for the PoS blockchain within the PoW chain
• Pre-Staking Phase: Users pre-stake their NIM
• Activation Phase: Selects candidate transition blocks from the PoW chain and executes the transition to the PoS chain if at least 80% of the stake is ready

During the migration, the entire blockchain state—including accounts, balances, and transaction history—was captured so that users' balances moved intact to the PoS chain.

Participation was optional. Those who wanted to contribute could become one of the first validators or migrate as observers. The captured state ensured no NIM was lost during the process, and the guides below document the steps that were available at the time.

Most Asked Questions ​

Do I need to participate in the migration?

No, you don't need to participate unless you want to become one of our first validators or actively engage in the process as a node operator with zero downtime. Your NIM and transaction history will be automatically transferred to the new PoS chain.

Will my NIM be safe during the transition?

Yes, all NIM balances and transaction histories will be securely migrated to the PoS chain, and no NIM will be lost during this process.

Can I access my Wallet post-transition with the same Login File?

Yes, you can. Your address and data will be transferred to the PoS chain, so your Login File remains the same.