How to Import Passwords to iOS 18 Passwords App

Apple's standalone Passwords app in iOS 18 allows users to seamlessly migrate their saved credentials from third-party password managers using standard CSV (Comma-Separated Values) files. This feature automates the process of mapping usernames, passwords, two-factor authentication codes, and notes directly into your iCloud Keychain, ensuring a smooth transition without manual data entry.

Step 1: Export Your Passwords from Your Current Manager

Before importing into iOS 18, you must generate a data file from your existing password manager (such as 1Password, Bitwarden, Dashlane, LastPass, or Google Password Manager):

  1. Open your third-party password manager on your device or browser.
  2. Navigate to the export settings.
  3. Select CSV as the export format.
  4. Save the unencrypted .csv file to the Files app on your iPhone or to your iCloud Drive.

Step 2: Import the CSV into the iOS 18 Passwords App

Once your CSV file is stored locally or in iCloud Drive, you can import it into the Passwords app:

  1. Open the Passwords app on your iPhone running iOS 18.
  2. Authenticate using Face ID, Touch ID, or your device passcode.
  3. Tap the Menu or Settings icon (represented by three dots or the settings gear depending on your view).
  4. Select Import Passwords...
  5. Use the file picker to locate and select the .csv file you saved in the Files app.
  6. Alternatively, open the Files app, locate your CSV file, tap Share, and choose the Passwords app from the share sheet.

Step 3: Review and Confirm Imported Accounts

The Passwords app automatically analyzes the headers in the CSV file—such as title, URL, username, password, one-time codes, and notes:

  • Field Mapping: Standard column headers are automatically matched to the corresponding fields in Apple Passwords.
  • Duplicates and Conflicts: If an entry in the CSV file matches an existing website and username, the app will prompt you to choose whether to keep the existing entry, replace it, or merge the information.
  • Confirmation: Review the import summary showing the total number of accounts added, then confirm the action. All imported credentials immediately sync across your Apple devices signed in to the same Apple Account with iCloud Keychain enabled.

Security Precaution

Unencrypted CSV files contain your sensitive credentials in plain text. Immediately after confirming the import in the Passwords app, permanently delete the CSV file from your Files app and empty the Recently Deleted folder.