Import Issues from CSV into Linear
Use Linear CLI importer for generic CSV input, following its documented column format. Do not assume there is a universal browser upload wizard or a lossless import of comments and projects.
Step-by-step guide
Check access and scope
A workspace administrator needs the source CSV and access to run the supported importer. Prefer a dedicated migration assistant when your source tool has one.
Prepare the CSV template
Download a Linear CSV template and retain its headers.
Map destination values
Map titles, descriptions, statuses, assignees and labels deliberately.
- Worked example: Test three invite-flow issues: an unassigned bug, an assigned task and a completed issue. Confirm that assignee full names match and estimates appear only after enabling team estimates.
Build an edge-case sample
Prepare a tiny sample containing multiline text and multiple labels.
Run the CLI importer
Open the CLI importer from Import/Export and follow its prompts. Follow the CLI tool prompts, choose the Linear CSV option and select the destination team; the source-tool assistant is preferable when available.
Inspect imported records
Inspect imported issues before importing the remaining records.
Verify the result
The sample preserves readable text, expected state and ownership without duplicate work.
Common mistakes
Avoid the main failure mode
Repeating an import is not a generic update operation. The importer can skip previously imported issues in the same team.
Check the handoff edge case
Assignee names that do not match the destination workspace can lose intended ownership. Check the mapping on imported sample rows.
Sources and verification
Based on product documentation checked on 2026-10-24. This is a documentation-based guide, not a hands-on benchmark. Features and availability can change.