# Import & export your resume — JSON & PDF, no upload

> Import an existing resume from a PDF or JSON Resume file to prefill the builder, or back up your data as JSON. Parsed locally in your browser — nothing uploaded.

Import an existing resume from a PDF or a JSON Resume file to prefill the builder, or back up your current data as JSON so you never lose it. All parsing happens in your browser, so your resume file isn't uploaded anywhere.

Because the Resume Desk keeps everything in your browser for privacy, import and export are how your data stays portable. Import pulls an existing PDF or JSON Resume into the builder so a resume you already have becomes editable here; export writes a clean JSON copy you control.

PDF parsing is best-effort — layouts vary — so treat an import as a fast head start you then tidy, not a perfect transfer. JSON round-trips exactly, which is why it's the right format for backups and moving between devices.

Edit the imported data in the Resume Builder, target it to a role with the ATS Checker, and add a matching Cover Letter.

## How to

1. **Choose a direction.** Import a PDF/JSON resume, or export your data as JSON.
2. **Add the file.** Drop your existing resume PDF or JSON Resume file.
3. **Review the fields.** Check the prefilled sections and fix anything the parse missed.
4. **Save.** Continue in the builder, or download a JSON backup.

## FAQ

### What is the JSON Resume format?

JSON Resume is an open standard that stores your resume as structured data. Exporting to it gives you a portable, tool-independent backup you can reimport anytime.

### Can I import a resume I made elsewhere?

Yes. Drop in a PDF or JSON Resume file and the builder extracts what it can to prefill your sections, so you don't start from scratch — then you refine it here.

### Why back up as JSON?

Because this desk stores data only in your browser, a JSON export is your safety net: keep it on disk and you can restore or move your resume to another device.

### Is my resume file uploaded to import it?

No. The PDF or JSON is read in your browser tab, so the document and its contents never leave your device.


## Related tools

- [Resume Builder](https://www.safepaper.app/resume/resume-builder)
- [ATS Checker](https://www.safepaper.app/resume/ats-resume-checker)
- [Cover Letter](https://www.safepaper.app/resume/cover-letter-generator)
- [Merge](https://www.safepaper.app/docs/merge)

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Canonical HTML: https://www.safepaper.app/resume/import-export
Markdown: https://www.safepaper.app/resume/import-export.md

There is no upload endpoint — your files are processed in this browser tab. Open your network tab and check.