How to Import Outlook Backups on a Mac

How to import your Outlook data from a .olm archive file with just a few clicks.

Written By Amman Berhe (Administrator)

Updated at June 4th, 2025

If you’ve previously exported your Outlook data to a .olm file, you can easily import it into Outlook for Mac. This is helpful when setting up a new device, restoring lost data, or accessing archived content.

Step 1: Open Outlook on Your Mac

Make sure Outlook is running and you're signed in to the account where you want to import the data.

Step 2: Go to the Import Tool

In the top menu bar, click File, then select Import from the dropdown menu.

Import .pst to Mac Mail using these simple steps | Outlooktransfer.com

NOTE: If you don’t see the Import option, make sure you’re using the New Outlook experience. You can switch back to the legacy version if needed by toggling the switch in the top-right corner of the Outlook window. 

  1. In the top-left corner of your screen, click the Outlook menu in the macOS menu bar.
  2. From the dropdown, check the option labeled Legacy Outlook.
  3. Outlook will prompt you to restart. Click Restart Outlook to apply the change.

Once Outlook restarts in Legacy mode, you should see the Import option under the Tools menu.

Step 3: Choose the File Type

In the Import window, select Outlook for Mac archive file (.olm) and click Continue.

Import email messages, contacts, and other items into Outlook for Mac -  Microsoft Support

Step 4: Locate and Select Your Backup File

Browse to the location where your .olm file is saved, select the file, and click Import. Outlook will begin importing your data. This may take a few minutes depending on the file size.

Step 5: View Your Imported Data

Once the import is complete, your data will appear in the On My Computer section of Outlook. You can now browse your restored emails, calendar events, contacts, and more.

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