---
title: '`glab variable import`'
stage: AI Coding
group: Code Review
info: To determine the technical writer assigned to the Stage/Group associated with this page, see <https://handbook.gitlab.com/handbook/product/ux/technical-writing/#assignments>
---

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Import variables from a JSON file or standard input.

## Synopsis

The inverse of `glab variable export`. Reads a JSON array of
variable objects, in the same shape `export --output json` emits.

The command:

- Reads from standard input, or from a file with `--input-file`.
- Imports into the current project by default. Use `--group` to
  import into a group instead.
- Stops with an error if a variable already exists. Pass
  `--skip-existing` to skip those and continue.

Hidden variables' values aren't included in `export` output,
so re-importing one is skipped with a warning. Set its value again
with `glab variable set --hidden`.

```plaintext
glab variable import [flags]
```

## Aliases

```plaintext
im
```

## Examples

```console
# Pipe an export straight into an import, to restore the same project
glab variable export | glab variable import

# Import variables from a saved file instead of standard input
glab variable import --input-file variables.json

# Import into a group instead of the current project
glab variable export --group gitlab-org | glab variable import --group gitlab-org

# Skip variables that already exist instead of failing
glab variable import --input-file variables.json --skip-existing
```

## Options

```plaintext
  -g, --group string        Select a group or subgroup. Ignored if a repository argument is set.
  -i, --input-file string   Read the variables JSON from this file instead of standard input.
  -R, --repo string         Select another repository. You can use either OWNER/REPO or GROUP/NAMESPACE/REPO. The full URL or Git URL is also accepted.
      --skip-existing       Skip variables that already exist instead of failing.
```

## Options inherited from parent commands

```plaintext
  -h, --help   Show help for this command.
```
