Theme Licensing and Transfers

Can I transfer a paid theme to a new store without repurchasing?

1. Requirements for transferring a theme

When transferring a theme purchased from the Shopify Theme Store, remember that a theme can only be used on one store at a time.

To successfully transfer a paid theme from one store to another, ensure the following criteria are met:

  • Both accounts have the same account owner email associated with them.

  • You're the registered owner of both accounts.

  • You're closing the original store that the theme was purchased on. After the theme is transferred, the closed store can't be reopened.

2. Transfer a theme

  1. From your Shopify admin, go to Online Store > Theme.

  2. Next to the theme that you want to transfer, click Actions > Download theme file. An email containing the file will be sent to you.

  3. Download the file from the email to your device.

  4. Ensure that you fully download the file from the email onto your device before proceeding.

  5. Remove the theme from the original store, including any renamed copies. If only copies exist, then add a free theme to delete all paid theme copies.

  6. Close the original store.

  7. To upload the theme file to the new store, go to Online Store > Themes, and then click Add theme > Upload zip file.

  8. Purchase the theme again for the new store.

  9. Optional: Contact Shopify Support to receive a refund on the original theme invoice. Refunds are based on the original purchase price, even if the current price is higher.

Newer version of themes might be priced higher than the original purchase price

Documents are quoted from Shopify's standard sources.

3. FAQs

3.1. Do I need to purchase the theme again for another store?

Yes.
Each Shopify store requires its own theme license.

3.2. Can I use one theme license for multiple stores?

A paid theme can only be used on one store at a time.

Allowed

  • One Shopify store with multiple markets (e.g. different regions or currencies)
    → Only one license is required

Not allowed

  • Using the same theme on multiple Shopify stores

  • Uploading or reusing a theme file on another store without a valid license

3.3. Can I reuse or upload a theme file to another store?

No.
You must purchase a license for each store before using the theme.

3.4. Can I transfer my theme to another store?

Only if:

  • You own both stores

  • The original store is permanently closed

In most cases, this is not practical.

3.5. Will I get a refund after transferring a theme?

You can request a refund from Shopify.
However, refunds are not guaranteed and are based on the original purchase price.

3.6. Who manages theme licenses and billing?

  • All licensing, billing, and refunds are handled directly by Shopify.

  • Theme developers do not control licensing or payments.

If you would like our team to check your setup, please contact us on Live chat.