How to Import MSG to Thunderbird? Step-by-Step Guide
Jackson Strong | November 14th, 2025 | Data Backup, Mozilla Thunderbird
Do you need to open MSG file in Thunderbird Mail? No worries. This blog will guide you on how to import MSG to Thunderbird. Here, we’ll show you two different ways to convert MSG to Thunderbird. So, keep reading and choose the method that is best fits your needs.
MSG files are used by Microsoft Outlook to store individual emails, including metadata, attachments, and formatting. Sometimes, users need to import .msg files into Thunderbird for various reasons. However, Mozilla Thunderbird does not support MSG files, which creates difficulty for users. This guide walks you through the most reliable solutions to accomplish this task smoothly.
Let’s start the process without any further delay!
Can Thunderbird Open MSG Files Manually?
No, Thunderbird cannot open or import MSG files directly. However, there is one possible workaround by converting MSG files to a compatible format and then importing them into Thunderbird.
Follow these steps to import MSG to Thunderbird:
- Double-click on the MSG file to open it in Outlook.
- Go to File >> Save As.
- Select Unicode Text (.txt) in Save as type and save the file to your desktop.
- After that, right-click on the saved file.
- Rename filename.txt -> filename.eml.
- Now you will get an EML file.
- Next, go to the location where you saved the file.
- Right-click on the EML file and choose Open With, and then select Thunderbird.
Limitations of Manual Method
- MS Outlook must be installed.
- Bulk MSG files cannot be imported.
- Attachments are usually lost.
How to Import MSG Files into Thunderbird in Bulk?
Download and install the Advik MSG Converter on your Windows PC. The software will help you transfer MSG files to Thunderbird with attachments. It has a dual mode to import MSG to Thunderbird in batch. With this tool, you can open MSG files in Thunderbird with headers, hyperlinks, signatures, messages, and other email elements. The software is compatible with all Thunderbird versions, including the latest 115.
Click below and try the software. You can move 25 MSG files to Thunderbird for FREE.
Steps to Import MSG to Thunderbird
Step 1. Run MSG to Thunderbird Converter on your PC.

Step 2. Click Select File to browse and add .msg files into software.

Step 3. After adding MSG files click Next button.

Step 4. Select Thunderbird as a saving option from the list.

Step 5. Click Convert button start transfer process.

The software will automatically detect your Thunderbird profile and copy Outlook messages into that account. All your MSG files will be copied in the Advik folder. The same will be available in your Thunderbird client. Once the transfer process is completed, the software will show a successful notification.
Watch How to Convert MSG to Thunderbird
Advanced Features of Automatic Solution
- Batch Export MSG File to Thunderbird: The software includes two dual options to add MSG file into the software interface. Users can also create a folder and store all the needed MSG files and load it into the application. In this way, users can import MSG file into Thunderbird in bulk.
- Multiple-Saving Options: The tool offers more than 30+ file formats to export MSG files such that you can convert MSG files to PST, EML, PDF, etc. Users can choose any of those formats as per their needs.
- Easy-to-use GUI: This application has been built with a user-friendly interface that can be easily used by even non-technical users also and help them to utilize it effortlessly.
- Maintain Folder Hierarchy: This tool can preserve and maintain the original hierarchy of the MSG mailbox folders throughout the email migration process.
- Wide Compatibility: Users can easily import MSG files into Thunderbird and other supported formats on any of the Windows Operating systems such as that it includes Windows 11, 10, 8, 7, XP, Vista, etc. Also, you can use the MSG file of all Outlook versions and import them into Thunderbird.
Final Words
In this post, we have discussed how to import MSG to Thunderbird manually and professionally. However, manually open MSG file in Thunderbird is so a lengthy and time-consuming process, as you need to import a large number of files. So, if you want faster, direct, and bulk importing, then choosing the automated tool is the best option. You can download its free demo version, which allows importing 25 MSg files. Once you test the tool’s efficiency, switch to the full pro version of the software.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q 1. Can Thunderbird open MSG files directly?
Ans. No, Thunderbird can’t open MSG files directly.
Q 2. Is it possible to import MSG files to Thunderbird in bulk?
Ans. Yes, the AdvikSoftware can upload MSG files to Thunderbird in batches.
Q 3. Will attachments be preserved during import?
Ans. Yes, when you use a reliable tool like Advik MSG Converter, all email attachments remain intact.


