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How to get a GEDCOM file from your family tree

Almost every family tree website and program can export a GEDCOM file. The wording differs, but the idea is the same: find the export option for your tree and download the file.

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Ancestry

  1. Open your tree and go to Tree settings.
  2. Choose Export tree, then Export.
  3. When it is ready, choose Download your GEDCOM file. Unzip it if it arrives as a zip.

Ancestry’s own page notes the export does not include photos or other media. You can add pictures later in Gedcom Art. See the full Ancestry poster guide.

MyHeritage

Open the list of your family trees, find the tree’s management options, and look for Export to GEDCOM. Menu names change over time, so if you cannot see it, search the site’s help for “export GEDCOM”.

Family tree software

Desktop programs such as Gramps, RootsMagic, Family Tree Maker and Legacy can save a tree as GEDCOM, usually under File → Export. Choose GEDCOM and, if asked, version 5.5.1, which is the most widely supported.

If you cannot find the export option

  • The tree may belong to someone else. Only the owner can usually export it, so ask them to send you the file.
  • Search the site’s help for “export GEDCOM” or “download tree”, because the wording changes.
  • Some sites ask you to confirm your email first.

What to check once you have the file

  • It ends in .ged (or .gedcom). If you have a .zip, unzip it first.
  • Open it in Gedcom Art and search for a person you know is in the tree.
  • Be careful sharing it. A GEDCOM can contain details of living people. Gedcom Art keeps your file on your own computer.

Gedcom Art is independent and is not affiliated with Ancestry, MyHeritage or any other service named here.

Frequently asked questions

Does a GEDCOM include photos?

Usually not. Many exports leave out photos and documents. You can add pictures in Gedcom Art by hand or from a zip.

Which GEDCOM version should I choose?

If you are asked, choose 5.5.1. It is the most widely supported version.

Is my GEDCOM safe to open in Gedcom Art?

Yes. The file is read in your own browser and is not uploaded. See the privacy page.

Keep reading

  • What is a GEDCOM fileWhat a GEDCOM (.ged) file is, what is inside it, how to open one, which version to use, and how to keep the people in it private. A plain-English guide.
  • Ancestry family tree posterExport your Ancestry tree as a GEDCOM, then turn it into a beautiful wall poster with photos. Free, private and print-ready up to A0. Step-by-step guide.
  • GEDCOM to family tree posterTurn a GEDCOM file into a family tree poster in minutes. Choose a design, add photos, download a print-ready PNG, PDF or SVG up to A0. Free and private.
  • PrivacyHow Gedcom Art handles your family tree data: it runs in your browser, nothing is uploaded, and your work is saved only on your own device.

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