Import OPML: migrate your RSS/Atom subscriptions
If you searched “import OPML”, you’re usually doing one of these:
- switching RSS readers (Feedly → Inoreader, etc.)
- restoring a backup
- merging multiple subscription lists
The core idea is the same everywhere: an OPML file contains your feed list, and the importer recreates it.
Import OPML into Feedly
Feedly’s UI changes over time, but the workflow is consistent:
- Open Feedly on web (desktop is easiest).
- Find Import OPML in Organize / Settings.
- Upload the
.opmlfile. - Choose merge vs replace if prompted.
If you’re starting in Feedly, export first: Export OPML from Feedly.
Import OPML into other readers
Most readers support OPML import somewhere in Settings:
- Inoreader
- NetNewsWire
- Reeder
- NewsBlur
- Miniflux / FreshRSS (self-hosted)
Look for “Import/Export”, “OPML”, or “Subscriptions”.
If OPML import fails (or duplicates explode)
Start with the error-specific guide: OPML Import Errors — How to Fix Broken Feed Lists.
Quick fixes that solve most failures:
- ensure the file is valid XML and UTF‑8
- ensure each feed outline has
xmlUrl="https://…" - avoid redirect-loop feed URLs (some importers verify URLs on import)
- if duplicates explode, dedupe by
xmlUrlbefore importing
Related
FAQ
What does importing OPML do?
Importing OPML recreates your subscription list (feeds + folders) in a new app, so you can migrate readers or restore a backup.
Why did my OPML import but no feeds appeared?
Often the OPML entries are missing xmlUrl (feed URLs) or the importer expects a different outline shape. Validate that each outline entry contains a real RSS/Atom feed URL.
How do I avoid duplicates when importing OPML?
Choose “replace” instead of “merge” when available, and dedupe by xmlUrl before importing. Some readers dedupe by title and can explode duplicates.
Fix RSS/Atom feeds and OPML lists
Paste a feed/OPML URL, upload a file, or paste XML — then validate and fix it.