Polkadot is a next-generation blockchain platform enabling seamless interoperability between multiple blockchains through its unique relay chain and parachain architecture. As the ecosystem grows, so does the need for reliable, user-friendly tools to manage digital assets. One such tool is Nova Wallet, a trusted mobile wallet built specifically for the Polkadot network and its connected chains.
Developed and maintained by Novasama Technologies, Nova Wallet is an open-source application available on both iOS and Android. Fully funded by the Polkadot Treasury, it offers strong security, intuitive navigation, and broad compatibility with decentralized applications (DApps) and other wallets across the Polkadot ecosystem.
Whether you're transferring DOT tokens on the same network or moving assets across chains using Polkadot’s cross-chain message passing (XCM) protocol, Nova Wallet streamlines the process with a clean interface and step-by-step guidance.
👉 Discover how to securely manage your Polkadot assets with advanced tools
How to Send Funds on the Same Network
Sending tokens within the same blockchain—such as transferring DOT from one account to another on the Polkadot relay chain—is straightforward in Nova Wallet. Follow these steps to complete a same-network transfer:
Step 1: Open Nova Wallet and Tap "Send"
Launch the Nova Wallet app on your device. On the main Assets tab, you’ll see an overview of your balances across supported networks. Below your total balance, tap the "Send" button to begin.
Step 2: Choose the Asset to Transfer
You’ll be prompted to select which cryptocurrency you’d like to send. You can browse available tokens or use the search bar to quickly find assets by network (e.g., Polkadot) or token symbol (e.g., DOT).
Step 3: Confirm Source and Destination Networks
By default, both the source and destination networks are set to the same chain. This ensures your transfer stays within one ecosystem—ideal for peer-to-peer transactions or funding another wallet you control.
Step 4: Enter Recipient Address
Now input the recipient’s address. You can:
- Select a saved account in your wallet
- Paste a copied address
- Scan a QR code containing the public key
Always double-check addresses before proceeding—blockchain transactions are irreversible.
Step 5: Specify Transfer Amount
Enter the amount of tokens you wish to send. The interface displays your transferable balance, excluding any locked or reserved funds such as the Existential Deposit—a minimum balance required to keep an account active on Polkadot-based chains.
You’ll also see the estimated network fee, deducted from your sender account.
Note: The Existential Deposit is not part of your spendable balance. If your balance falls below this threshold after a transfer, the remaining funds may be slashed to cover storage costs.
Step 6: Review and Confirm Transaction
Tap Continue to review all transaction details:
- Asset type and amount
- Source and destination networks
- Sender and recipient addresses
- Estimated fees
If everything looks correct, tap Confirm. To make edits, use the back button in the top-left corner.
Step 7: Sign and Broadcast
Finally, authenticate the transaction using your preferred method (e.g., biometrics or password). Once signed, the transaction is broadcast to the network within seconds. The recipient should see the funds shortly after confirmation.
How to Send Funds Cross-Chain
Polkadot excels at enabling cross-chain communication via XCM, allowing users to transfer assets between different parachains securely. Nova Wallet supports this functionality natively, making it easy to move tokens like DOT from Polkadot Relay Chain to asset hubs or other connected chains.
👉 Learn how cross-chain transfers work with powerful crypto tools
Important Warning: Exchanges and Cross-Chain Transfers
⚠️ Most centralized exchanges do not support incoming cross-chain deposits.If you're sending funds to an exchange:
- Always select the token on its native chain (e.g., DOT on Polkadot)
- Ensure the destination network matches what the exchange supports
- Never send a cross-chain transfer directly to an exchange address unless explicitly instructed
Incorrect routing may result in permanent loss of funds.
For maximum safety:
- Transfer assets cross-chain to your personal wallet on the target network
- Then perform a standard same-chain transfer to the exchange
Step-by-Step Cross-Chain Transfer
Step 1: Launch Nova Wallet and Tap "Send"
As with same-network transfers, start from the Assets tab and tap Send.
Step 2: Select Your Asset
Choose the token you want to move across chains. For example, select DOT if moving from Polkadot Relay Chain.
Step 3: Set Source Network
Pick the network where your funds currently reside (e.g., Polkadot). By default, the destination is set to match.
Step 4: Change Destination Network
Tap the destination field and choose a different supported chain—such as Polkadot Asset Hub, Acala, or Moonbeam—depending on where you want your tokens to arrive.
Nova Wallet automatically routes the transfer using XCM protocols under the hood.
Step 5: Enter Recipient Address
You can:
- Choose a saved account
- Paste an external address
- Scan a QR code
- Use the “Myself” option to send to your own account on the destination chain
Ensure the address format is compatible with the destination network.
Step 6: Input Amount and Check Fees
Enter the amount you’d like to transfer. Unlike single-chain sends, cross-chain transfers incur two fees:
- One on the source chain (e.g., Polkadot)
- One on the destination chain (e.g., Asset Hub)
These are displayed clearly before confirmation.
Step 7: Review All Details
Before signing, verify:
- The correct asset and amount
- Accurate source and destination networks
- Valid recipient address
- Total expected fees
Tap Confirm only when satisfied.
Step 8: Sign and Complete
Authenticate the transaction. After signing, it’s submitted to the network. Depending on congestion and chain finality times, funds typically arrive within minutes.
Once completed, you can view the transaction in your activity log or explore it on a block explorer using the transaction hash.
👉 Access real-time cross-chain analytics and secure transfer options
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: What is Nova Wallet?
A: Nova Wallet is an open-source mobile wallet designed for the Polkadot ecosystem. It supports multi-chain asset management, DApp interactions, and secure cross-chain transfers via XCM—all with a user-friendly interface.
Q: Is Nova Wallet safe?
A: Yes. As an open-source project funded by the Polkadot Treasury and developed by Novasama Technologies, Nova Wallet undergoes regular audits and follows industry-standard security practices. Your private keys remain stored locally on your device.
Q: Can I lose funds when sending cross-chain?
A: Yes—especially if sending directly to exchanges that don’t support cross-chain deposits. Always route through your own wallet first. Double-check network compatibility and address formats.
Q: Why isn’t my full balance available to send?
A: Part of your balance may be reserved for system requirements like the Existential Deposit, which prevents dust accounts from bloating the state. This amount is non-transferable and excluded from your spendable balance.
Q: Do I need tokens on both chains for a cross-chain transfer?
A: You only need funds on the source chain to initiate the transfer. However, some destination chains may require a minimal native token balance (e.g., for account creation). If missing, Nova Wallet will guide you through funding it.
Q: How long do cross-chain transfers take?
A: Most transfers complete within seconds to a few minutes. Delays can occur due to network congestion or parachain availability, but status updates are visible directly in-app.
By following this guide, users can confidently manage their Polkadot-based assets using Nova Wallet—whether making simple payments or leveraging advanced cross-chain capabilities. With built-in safeguards and clear UI cues, Nova Wallet lowers the barrier to entry for interacting with one of crypto’s most innovative ecosystems.
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