Import KML map data into Google Earth

To view, analyze, and share Google Earth information, use Keyhole Markup Language (KML) files. These files store geographic data and content related to Google Earth. Learn more about KML files.

Import a file into an existing Earth project

You can import a simple KML or KMZ file from an older version of Google Earth to an existing Earth project.

Important: You can only import a file into an existing Earth project if you’re signed in.

To import the file into an existing Google Earth project:

On your computer, open Google Earth.
In the home screen, click an existing project.
At the top left, click File Import file to {Project name}.
- To add a file from Google Drive, click Import from Drive.
- To add a file directly from your computer, click Upload from device.
Select the file you want to import.

After you select the file you want to import, it’ll automatically be added to an existing Earth project.

Tip: If you aren’t redirected to Google Earth home screen, to go to home screen, click Earth .

Import a file into a new Earth project

You can import a simple KML or KMZ file from an older version of Google Earth to a new Earth project.

Important: You can only import a file into a new Earth project if you’re signed in.

To import the file into a new Google Earth project:

On your computer, open Google Earth.
At the top left, click New Import file to project.
- To add a file from Google Drive, click Import from Drive.
- To add a file directly from your computer, click Upload from device.
Select the file you want to import.

After you select the file you want to import, it’ll automatically create a new project saved in Google Drive.

Tip: If you aren’t redirected to Google Earth home screen, to go to home screen, click Earth .

Open local KML files in Google Earth

You can open a simple KML or KMZ file from an older version of Google Earth as a local KML file. To open local KML files in Google Earth:

On your computer, open Google Earth.
At the top left, click New Open local KML file.
Select the KML file you want to open.

After you select the file you want to open, it’ll automatically save to your local KML files.

Tips:

You can open local KML files in Google Earth even if you're not signed in.
If you aren’t redirected to Google Earth home screen, to go to home screen, click Earth .

Import other file formats

Aside from a simple KML or KMZ file, you can also import other file formats into Google Earth. To import other file formats into Google Earth:

Open Google Earth Pro on desktop.
Import the file you want.
On your computer, download the KML file from Google Earth Pro.
Open Google Earth.
Import your file into Google Earth.

Tip: To convert file format, use an online file converter. Additional file type support is coming soon.

Use Google Earth to open KML files

You can find the most simple KML files with Google Earth for Chrome (version 9) or in the Google Earth app on your mobile device.
If you’re unable to find complex KML files, use Google Earth for desktop (version 7), which supports all KML features.

Import this info from KML files

Placemarks, lines/paths, and polygons
Image overlays (ground overlays)
Simple network links
Super-overlays
Simple KML tours without audio

Tips:

Before you import your KML file, apply the appropriate style in the original source. In Google Earth, styling is still feature by feature. Another alternative is to update your file in Google Earth Pro.
To use more complex KML files, use Google Earth Pro for Desktop.
Learn how to use KML features.

Report a problem

If you encounter issues when you import files, tell us about the problem.