As the Polkadot ecosystem evolves, so do the tools that support it. The introduction of the new, dedicated Polkadot Ledger app is a significant upgrade for users who prioritize security through hardware wallets. This guide provides a clear, step-by-step walkthrough for migrating your DOT tokens to addresses generated by this new application and connecting your Ledger device with Nova Wallet for a seamless staking and management experience.
A crucial point to understand from the outset is that this process only involves migrating your token balances. Your actual Polkadot network accounts do not need to be moved; the new Ledger app is designed to be automatically compatible with them. Before you begin, the most important preparatory step is to ensure your DOT tokens are transferable. This means you must unstake any tokens currently staking in nominator or validator pools and unlock any tokens that are locked in governance voting or crowdloans. Only free, liquid tokens can be transferred to your new address.
Please note: This guide assumes the Polkadot parachain you are interacting with has upgraded its runtime to be compatible with the new Polkadot Ledger app.
Prerequisites for the Migration
Before starting the migration process, you need to have the correct applications installed on your Ledger device via the Ledger Live desktop application.
- Open Ledger Live on your computer.
- Navigate to the Manager section.
- Connect and unlock your Ledger device.
Search for and install both of the following apps:
- Polkadot Migration app
- Polkadot app (Ensure you have version 100.0.5 or higher)
With these apps installed, you are ready to begin the three-step process within Nova Wallet.
Step 1: Importing Your Account via the Polkadot Migration App
This first step involves importing your existing account using the legacy method.
Open Nova Wallet and tap "Already have a wallet."
- If you are adding an additional wallet to the app, tap the identicon in the top-right corner of the Assets screen, then the settings (cogwheel) icon, select "Add wallet," and then choose "Import existing."
- Select "Hardware Wallet" and then choose your Ledger model (Legacy).
- Read the on-screen prompt carefully and tap "Continue."
- Turn on and unlock your physical Ledger device.
- On your Ledger device, open the Polkadot Migration app. Your Ledger screen should display "Polkadot Migration Ready."
- Back in Nova Wallet, select the desired network (e.g., Polkadot) from the list.
- If prompted, allow Nova Wallet the necessary permissions to find your Ledger device via Bluetooth. On older Android versions, location permission may be required for Bluetooth functionality.
- Select your Ledger device from the list of available devices in Nova Wallet.
- Carefully review the operation details on your Ledger device's screen and approve the request. Verify that the address shown on your Ledger matches the one displayed in Nova Wallet.
- Finally, input a nickname for this imported account in Nova Wallet for easy identification.
Step 2: Importing Your Account via the New Polkadot App
Now, you will repeat a similar process to import an account using the new, dedicated Polkadot app, which will generate a new address for you.
- Since you are adding another wallet, tap the identicon in the top-right corner, then the settings (cogwheel) icon, select "Add wallet," and then choose "Import existing."
- Select "Hardware Wallet" and this time, choose your Ledger model (Generic Polkadot app).
- Read the on-screen information and tap "Continue."
- Turn on and unlock your Ledger device.
- On your Ledger, open the standard Polkadot app. The screen should show "Polkadot Ready."
- In Nova Wallet, select your Ledger device from the list.
- Review and approve the operation on your Ledger device, ensuring the addresses match.
- Assign a unique nickname to this new account in Nova Wallet.
Step 3: Transferring Your Token Balances
You should now see two separate accounts in Nova Wallet: one linked to your old address (via the Migration app) and one linked to your new address (via the new Polkadot app). The final step is to move your liquid DOT tokens from the old address to the new one.
- In Nova Wallet, ensure you are viewing the assets for the old account (imported via the Polkadot Migration app).
- Tap the "Send" button from the balance widget.
- Select DOT as the asset you wish to send.
- For the recipient's address, tap the "Your Wallets" dropdown menu and select the address generated by your new Polkadot Ledger app. This ensures you are sending to your own correct, secure address.
- Enter the amount of DOT you wish to transfer and tap "Continue."
- Turn on, unlock your Ledger device, and open the Polkadot Migration app once more.
- In Nova Wallet, review all contextual information about the transfer (amount, recipient, fee) and tap "Confirm."
- Select your Ledger device from the list.
- meticulously review the transaction details on your Ledger's screen. If everything is correct, approve the transaction on the device.
Your transfer will now be broadcast to the network. Once confirmed, your DOT balance will be securely held in your new, upgraded Ledger account. 👉 Explore more strategies for secure crypto management
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I stake Polkadot (DOT) directly through Ledger Live?
Yes, Ledger Live supports basic staking functionalities for Polkadot. However, you must first install the updated Polkadot Ledger app and complete the account migration process. Many users prefer using a dedicated wallet interface like Nova Wallet alongside their Ledger for a more feature-rich staking experience.
Is the Ledger Nano X compatible with Polkadot staking?
Absolutely. The Ledger Nano X, with its Bluetooth capability, works perfectly with the new Polkadot app and mobile wallets like Nova Wallet. It allows you to securely sign all staking transactions and nominations while your private keys remain protected offline on the hardware device.
What is the purpose of migrating tokens to a new Ledger app address?
The new dedicated Polkadot Ledger app offers improved security, better compatibility with the latest network features, and a more streamlined experience. Migrating your tokens to an address generated by this new app ensures you can continue to interact with the Polkadot ecosystem securely and without interruption.
Why should I use Nova Wallet with my Ledger device?
Combining Nova Wallet with a Ledger hardware wallet provides an optimal balance of security and convenience. You benefit from the air-gapped, cold storage security of Ledger for signing transactions, coupled with the user-friendly mobile interface, advanced nomination tools, and real-time reward tracking offered by Nova Wallet.
What happens if I don't migrate my tokens?
Your existing tokens on the old address will remain safe and accessible. However, to use the latest features and ensure the highest level of security support from the Ledger and Polkadot development teams, migrating to the new app is strongly recommended. You may eventually encounter compatibility issues if you stay on the old system.
Do I need to pay a transaction fee for the migration transfer?
Yes, transferring DOT from your old address to your new one is an on-chain transaction. You will need to pay a small network fee (in DOT) to process this transfer, and you must have a small amount of liquid DOT in your old account to cover this fee.