Transferring from P-Chain to C-Chain Using API Calls on Avalanche

If you're developing on the Avalanche network, automating AVAX transfers between chains can streamline your application's functionality. This guide details how to programmatically transfer tokens from the P-Chain to the C-Chain using API calls to an AvalancheGo node.

Prerequisites

Access to an AvalancheGo node (local or remote)
AVAX tokens on the P-Chain
User credentials stored in the node's keystore (creation guide)

Cross-Chain Transfer Overview

Cross-chain transfers involve two steps:

Exporting AVAX from the source chain (P-Chain)
Importing AVAX to the destination chain (C-Chain)

Setting Up C-Chain Address and Key

The P-Chain uses Bech32 addresses, while the C-Chain uses hex-encoded EVM addresses. To bridge these formats:

Export a private key from the X-Chain (compatible with P-Chain):

{
  "address": "X-avax1...",
  "privateKey": "PrivateKey-..."
}

Import the key to the C-Chain:
```
{
  "address": "0x..."
}
```

This links your P-Chain and C-Chain assets under a single control key.

Step-by-Step Transfer Process

1. Export AVAX from P-Chain

Call platform.exportAVAX with your C-Chain EVM address:

{
  "to": "C-avax1...",
  "amount": "1000000000" // 1 AVAX
}

2. Import AVAX to C-Chain

Use avax.importAVAX to finalize the transfer:

{
  "to": "0x...",
  "txID": "2Q..."
}

Note: No transaction fees apply for C-Chain imports.

Reversing the Flow: C-Chain to P-Chain

Export AVAX from C-Chain:

{
  "to": "P-avax1...",
  "amount": "1000000000"
}

Import AVAX to P-Chain:
```
{
  "txID": "2Q..."
}
```

FAQs

Why can’t I directly convert P-Chain and C-Chain addresses?

The address formats derive from different cryptographic methods (Bech32 vs. EVM). Exporting/importing private keys bridges this gap.

Are there fees for cross-chain transfers?

Export transactions incur standard fees.
C-Chain imports are fee-free.

How long do transfers take?

Transfers typically complete within seconds, depending on network congestion.

Conclusion

By leveraging AvalancheGo APIs, you can seamlessly transfer AVAX between the P-Chain and C-Chain. This enables advanced use cases like smart contract interactions or staking automation.

👉 Explore advanced Avalanche integrations to enhance your blockchain projects.

For further questions, consult Avalanche’s developer documentation or community forums.