How to Import EML into Thunderbird (Quick & Easy Guide)

Written By Loic Traves
Approved By Mithilesh Tata
Publish on August 20th, 2025
Reading Time: 4 minutes

Summary: Email is one of the most important ways we communicate today, and managing email files across different platforms can sometimes be complex. Many users who have saved their old email messages in EML format often look for a way to import EML into Thunderbird, allowing them to continue accessing those messages without hassle. Suppose you are in the same situation, in this guide. In that case, we will cover what an EML file is, how Thunderbird supports it, and the different ways to bring your emails into Thunderbird, both with manual and automated software, the ConvertorTools EML Converter Tool.

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Why Open EML File in Thunderbird?

EML files can be very useful, but they also have limits, which can be easily communicated:

You often need the same email program that created them to open the files.
Each file must be opened separately, which takes a lot of time if you have many.
Large groups of EML files can be hard to arrange and manage properly.
Sharing or moving EML files between different systems is not always smooth.

Benefits of Using Thunderbird

It is completely free for anyone and open source without any charges.
Similarly, it can work on Windows, Mac, and Linux, giving flexibility across devices.
Supports themes and add-ons, so you can adjust it to fit your style or needs.
Bring all your emails into one place, making them easier to search and manage.
Keeps attachments, formatting, and email details safe during import.
Does not depend on the old email program, so you can access your mail anytime.

Can You Import EML Files into Thunderbird Directly?

Thunderbird always allows the user to drag and drop the EML files, and the email will appear in your mailbox. While this is fine for a handful of messages, it becomes inconvenient if you have hundreds or thousands of emails. This is why people often seek alternatives, such as add-ons or professional tools, to import EML files to Thunderbird in bulk.

Technique to Import EML into Thunderbird

To move EML files into Thunderbird, you have a few choices. The easiest way is to just drag and drop the files into a Thunderbird folder if you only have a small number of emails. If there are several files or large data, you can use the automated software which is mentioned below.

Technique 1: Manual Method To Import EML Files in Thunderbird

Thunderbird offers several add-ons, and one of the most popular for this task is ImportExportTools NG.

Steps to Use ImportExportTools NG:

Firstly, open your Thunderbird and click the Menu button.
Select the Add-ons and Themes from the menu.
Navigate to ImportExportTools NG and install it.
Next, select the mailbox folder by right-clicking it.
Similarly, select the Imported EML messages.
Lastly, browse and select your EML files.

Limitations of the Manual Method:

Installing and managing add-ons may not be convenient for everyone.
Can run into issues with very large collections of EML files.

Technique 2: Seamless Method to Import EML Files in Thunderbird

When it comes to bulk importing, reliability, and no data loss, a professional solution is the best choice. The ConvertorTools EML Converter Tool is designed specifically for this purpose. This technique allows users to easily convert EML to Thunderbird without loss of attachments or formatting. Moreover, it also saves a lot of time compared to manual techniques. The user can also convert EML to Word, PDF, DOC/DOCX, CSV, etc.

How to Import EML into Thunderbird with EML Converter:

Download and install the ConvertorTools EML Converter Tool on your local system.

Similarly, click on Add File/Folder to import your EML files into the software.

From the list of selected files, you can preview the content by double-clicking it.

Select Thunderbird from the file format option.

Apply the advanced filters for better output and click the Convert button.

Final Thoughts

In the above blog, we have discussed different approaches to import EML into Thunderbird. You can choose any one of them according to your convenience. However, for a few emails, drag and drop will work just fine, but for handling a large number of emails and no data loss, you must go for the ConvertorTools EML Converter. Ultimately, the choice is up to you only. By choosing the right approach, you can easily keep your emails organized and accessible within Thunderbird without worrying about data loss and corruption.

Frequently Asked Questions:

Q.1 Can Thunderbird open EML files directly?

Ans: For opening the EML files directly, you can follow the following steps:
1. Download the ConvertorTools EML Converter Tool.
2. Click on Add File/Folder to import your EML files
3. You can preview the content by double-clicking the files.
4. Select Thunderbird from the file format option.
5. Apply the advanced filters.
6. Click on the Convert button.

Q.2 Is there a built-in way to import EML files into Thunderbird?

Ans: No, Thunderbird does not have a native bulk import option. You need to use either drag-and-drop, add-ons, or the ConvertorTools EML Converter Tool.

Q.3 Which tool is best for importing EML files into Thunderbird?

Ans: The ConvertorTools EML Converter Tool is one of the most reliable solutions for bulk EML import with complete data integrity.

Q.4 Does importing EML files into Thunderbird keep attachments?

Ans: Yes, if done properly using add-ons or the ConvertorTools EML Converter Tool, your email attachments will remain intact.

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About The Author:

Loic Traves

Loic Traves is a seasoned technical expert who has helped thousands of clients with Microsoft Outlook and various cloud-based email platforms. He enjoys writing about email client backups and migration processes. Passionate about supporting users in need, he strives to provide the latest insights, clear explanations, and practical, user-friendly solutions.