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How to Migrate from Gmail to ProtonMail

Gmail ProtonMail
Difficulty: Easy Estimated time: 30 minutes

Step-by-step guide to switch from Gmail to ProtonMail, the encrypted European email alternative.

Prerequisites

  • A Gmail account with data you want to migrate
  • A ProtonMail account (free or paid)

Steps

  1. Create a ProtonMail account

    Visit proton.me and sign up for a free or paid account.

  2. Use Easy Switch to import

    In ProtonMail settings, use the Easy Switch tool to import emails, contacts, and calendars from Gmail.

  3. Set up email forwarding

    In Gmail settings, set up automatic forwarding to your new ProtonMail address.

  4. Update your accounts

    Change your email address on important services and notify contacts.

  5. Download Proton apps

    Install ProtonMail on your phone and set up Proton Bridge for desktop clients.

Why Migrate from Gmail to ProtonMail?

Gmail scans your emails to build advertising profiles and stores your data on US servers subject to the CLOUD Act. ProtonMail offers end-to-end encryption by default, with servers in Switzerland protected by some of the world’s strongest privacy laws.

Detailed Migration Steps

Step 1: Create Your ProtonMail Account

Visit proton.me and choose your plan. The free tier includes 1 GB of storage and 150 messages per day. For most users migrating from Gmail, the Mail Plus plan (from €3.99/month) provides 15 GB of storage and unlimited messages.

Step 2: Import with Easy Switch

ProtonMail’s Easy Switch tool makes migration straightforward:

  1. Log in to ProtonMail and go to Settings > Import/Export
  2. Click Import via Easy Switch
  3. Sign in to your Google account when prompted
  4. Select what to import: emails, contacts, calendars
  5. Click Start Import

The import typically takes a few hours depending on your mailbox size.

Step 3: Set Up Email Forwarding

During the transition period, forward Gmail to ProtonMail:

  1. In Gmail, go to Settings > Forwarding and POP/IMAP
  2. Click Add a forwarding address and enter your ProtonMail address
  3. Confirm the forwarding in ProtonMail
  4. Select Forward a copy of incoming mail

Step 4: Update Your Accounts

Gradually update your email address across services:

  • Banking and financial services (highest priority)
  • Social media accounts
  • Shopping and subscription services
  • Professional contacts and LinkedIn
  • Government services

Step 5: Install Proton Apps

  • Mobile: Download ProtonMail from App Store or Google Play
  • Desktop: Install Proton Bridge to use ProtonMail with Outlook, Thunderbird, or Apple Mail
  • Calendar: Proton Calendar syncs automatically

Tips for a Smooth Migration

  • Keep Gmail active for 3-6 months to catch any missed redirections
  • Use ProtonMail’s custom domain feature if you have a personal domain
  • Enable two-factor authentication on your new ProtonMail account
  • Consider the Proton Unlimited plan for VPN, Drive, and Calendar bundled together

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