How to Import an ICS File into Outlook

Importing ICS Files into Outlook

Microsoft Outlook supports ICS files across all its platforms — desktop app, web app, and mobile. Here's how to import calendar events into each version.

Outlook Desktop (Windows)

1. Open Outlook and switch to the Calendar view.
2. Go to File > Open & Export > Import/Export.
3. Select Import an iCalendar (.ics) or vCalendar file (.vcs) and click Next.
4. Browse to your .ics file and select it.
5. Choose Open as New to create a separate calendar, or Import to add events to your existing calendar.

Alternatively, you can simply double-click the .ics file in File Explorer. Outlook will open and prompt you to add the event.

Outlook on the Web (Outlook.com / Microsoft 365)

1. Go to Outlook Calendar in your browser.
2. Click Add calendar in the left sidebar.
3. Select Upload from file.
4. Click Browse, select your .ics file, and choose a destination calendar.
5. Click Import.

Outlook for Mac

1. Open Outlook on your Mac.
2. Go to File > Import.
3. Select the .ics file and click Import.
4. Events will be added to your default calendar.

Outlook Mobile (iOS and Android)

On mobile, the easiest way to import an ICS file is to email it to yourself and open the attachment in the Outlook app. Outlook will detect the calendar event and offer to add it.

Common Issues and Fixes

• Events import as a separate calendar: When prompted, choose "Import" instead of "Open as New" to merge events into your existing calendar.
• Recurring events not showing: Outlook handles recurrence rules (RRULE) slightly differently. If events don't recur as expected, check the original .ics file.
• Time zone mismatch: Outlook converts event times to your local timezone. Verify your Outlook timezone settings if events appear at the wrong time.
• File won't open: Ensure the file has a .ics extension and is a valid iCalendar file.

Generate ICS Files Easily

Need to create an ICS file? Text2ICS converts plain text into calendar events instantly. You can also use our PDF converter for schedules in PDF format, or our CSV converter for spreadsheet data.