Overview:
Starting September 1, 2025, Umbraco Forms will move from using license files to using subscription keys. Specifically, version 16.3 serves as a pivotal transition point for adopting key-based licensing.
From Umbraco version 17 onward, only the subscription key model will be supported.
For Umbraco versions 13 and 16, both license file and subscription key models will work during a hybrid period starting September 1, 2025. Version 16.3 is the first to introduce key-based licensing within the hybrid model.
On Umbraco Cloud, no action is required. License validation happens automatically.
You can still test Forms locally without a subscription; a key is only required for live domains.
Benefits of the Change:
Unified and consistent licensing model across all Umbraco products.
Stronger foundation for long-term product development and faster updates.
Easier license management — no more handling license files.
Lower upfront cost and predictable annual payments.
Flexible for both long-term platforms and short-term campaign sites.
Pricing and Subscription Information:
Updated pricing and details for Forms subscriptions and add-ons are available at:
Each subscription covers one live domain (including all subdomains) and includes two development/test domains at no extra cost.
Migration Details:
Existing one-off license holders will receive subscription time equivalent to up to 32 months from the original purchase date.
Example: If your license is 10 months old, you’ll receive 22 months of subscription time (32 - 10 = 22).
After the migration period ends, annual billing will begin automatically.
Migration to the subscription model is required when upgrading to Umbraco version 17 or newer.
Request to "talk to a human" to convert your existing license file to a subscription key to ensure compatibility with Umbraco 17+.
To retrieve legacy licenses, ask to "talk to a human" and provide the domain name for which the license file is required. Umbraco Support will assist in providing and configuring the license file.
Alternatively, you can use the self-service migration form available on the Umbraco website. Navigate to the Forms section, fill out the migration form, and receive your new subscription license key for use with Umbraco v17.
Next Steps (Effective September 1, 2025):
The Umbraco shop (shop.umbraco.com) will close for direct purchases and partner sales.
For new projects or migrations, request a subscription license at umbraco.com/licenses.
To migrate an existing license, visit umbraco.com/licenses/migrate-forms.
To modify an existing license (add/remove domains), use the ‘Modify an existing license’ option at umbraco.com/licenses.- To retrieve legacy-style license files, ask to "talk to a human", and specify the domain for which the license file is required. Our human agents will provide and configure the license file for your specified domain.- For guidance on installing retrieved license files, refer to the standard installation guide provided by Umbraco to ensure proper configuration for your domain.
After migrating to the subscription-based license, update your application configuration by removing existing
.licfiles from theUmbraco/Licensesfolder and adding the new license keys to your configuration settings (e.g.,appsettings). Ensure the updated configuration is deployed for proper functionality.
FAQ Summary:
Will old one-off licenses stop working? No. They remain valid for Umbraco 13 and 16. However, Forms support for those versions ends when they reach end-of-life. For Umbraco 17 (or newer versions), you’ll need a subscription key.
Can I modify domains on old one-off licenses? Yes. Partners can manage this via umbraco.com/licenses, and direct customers via umbraco.com/products/add-ons/forms/.
Will Umbraco 17 only support subscriptions? Yes. Umbraco 17 or newer versions) will exclusively use the license key subscription model.- Are old license files compatible with Umbraco 17+? No, license files from earlier versions of Umbraco Forms are not directly compatible with Umbraco 17. They require conversion to the subscription key format.
Can I still buy a one-off license now? Yes, for ongoing projects. Request one at umbraco.com/licenses.
What if my license is older than 32 months? It will still work for versions below 17. When upgrading to Umbraco 17+, a new subscription license key will be required.
Version Info:
Hybrid model (file + key): Umbraco 13 and 16 (from September 1, 2025)
Subscription key only: Umbraco 17+
Notes:
No license changes are required for Umbraco Cloud users.
Localhost installations remain free for testing.
Subscriptions renew automatically after the migrated period ends.