How to import contacts from CSV or other platforms on GetResponse

beginner 8 min read Updated 2026-03-19

Quick Answer

Import contacts to GetResponse by navigating to Contacts > Import, selecting your source (CSV file or platform integration), mapping fields correctly, and choosing the appropriate list. The process includes data validation and duplicate handling options.

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Prerequisites

Active GetResponse account
Contact data in CSV format or access to other platform
Valid email addresses in your contact list
Administrator access to your GetResponse account

Step-by-Step Instructions

Access the Import Function

Log into your GetResponse account and navigate to Contacts from the main menu. Click on Import contacts button located in the top-right corner of the contacts dashboard. This will open the import wizard with various import options.

Ensure you have the necessary permissions to import contacts if you're using a team account.

Choose Your Import Source

Select your import method from the available options:

Upload CSV file - for importing from spreadsheets
Import from integrations - for platforms like Gmail, Outlook, or other email services
Copy and paste - for small lists of email addresses

Click Continue after making your selection.

CSV files should be properly formatted with headers in the first row for best results.

Upload and Configure Your Data

If uploading a CSV file, click Choose file and select your contact file. GetResponse will automatically detect columns and display a preview. For platform integrations, follow the authorization process to connect your account. Review the detected data and ensure it looks correct before proceeding.

CSV files should be encoded in UTF-8 format to avoid character encoding issues.

Map Contact Fields

Map your data columns to GetResponse contact fields. The system will automatically suggest mappings for common fields like:

Email (required)
Name
Custom fields

Use the dropdown menus to assign each column to the appropriate GetResponse field. Click Don't import for columns you want to skip.

Create custom fields in advance if you need to import data that doesn't match standard GetResponse fields.

Select Target List and Duplicate Handling

Choose the contact list where you want to import your contacts from the Add to list dropdown. Configure duplicate handling options:

Skip duplicates - ignore contacts that already exist
Update existing - overwrite existing contact data
Import all - import everything including duplicates

Use 'Update existing' option if you're importing updated information for contacts already in your list.

Set Subscription Status and Compliance

Choose the subscription status for imported contacts:

Confirmed - for contacts who have already opted in
Unconfirmed - requires double opt-in confirmation

Ensure you have proper consent for importing these contacts by checking the compliance checkbox. This is crucial for GDPR and other privacy regulations.

When in doubt, use 'Unconfirmed' status to maintain compliance and build a quality email list.

Review and Start Import

Review your import settings in the summary screen. Check the number of contacts to be imported, selected list, field mappings, and duplicate handling options. Click Start import to begin the process. GetResponse will show a progress indicator and notify you when the import is complete.

Large imports may take several minutes to complete. You can continue working in GetResponse while the import runs in the background.

Verify Import Results

Once the import is complete, review the import summary showing successful imports, skipped duplicates, and any errors. Navigate to your contact list to verify that contacts were imported correctly. Check a few sample contacts to ensure field mapping worked properly and all data is in the correct fields.

Export a sample of imported contacts to compare with your original file if you notice any discrepancies.

Common Issues & Troubleshooting

CSV file upload fails or shows formatting errors

Ensure your CSV file uses UTF-8 encoding, has proper headers in the first row, and email addresses are in valid format. Remove any special characters or formatting from the file and try again.

Contacts imported but missing custom field data

Create the custom fields in GetResponse first under Contacts > Custom fields, then re-import your file and map the columns to these pre-created custom fields.

Import shows 'Invalid email address' errors

Clean your contact list before importing by removing invalid email formats, duplicate entries, and placeholder emails. Use email validation tools if necessary to ensure data quality.

Platform integration authorization fails

Clear your browser cache, disable ad blockers temporarily, and ensure you're using the correct login credentials for the platform you're trying to connect. Try the integration from an incognito/private browser window.

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