Q: When and how do I use the Change of Address tool in Search Console?

Q: When and how do I use the Change of Address tool in Search Console?

Fair question — it's specific and easy to misuse. Here's exactly when it applies.

Short answer: use it only for a full domain change where every page maps to the new domain. Not for HTTPS, not for URL restructures on the same domain.

Long answer, prerequisites first:
— Both old and new domains verified in the same GSC account.
— Sitewide 301s already live, old-to-new, one-to-one.
— Old homepage 301s to the new homepage specifically.

Then:
— Open Settings on the old property, choose Change of Address, pick the new site, run the validation check.
— If it passes, submit. Google keeps the request active for 180 days.

Next step: after submitting, leave both properties verified and the redirects live for at least 6 months. Removing them early throws away the signal.