How to Migrate Gmail to ProtonMail? A Complete Guide

“I am currently managing multiple Gmail accounts for my legal communication. However, I need to move every important email to ProtonMail for better privacy and encrypted access. Hence, is there any reliable way to migrate my Gmail to ProtonMail without losing my data?”

— Mark D. Levins

 

Summary: Email data has no value unless you can access it securely, and Gmail archives often stay locked behind the Google ecosystem. This becomes challenging for teams who want encrypted access, strict privacy, and a more protected mailbox like ProtonMail. To help you with this, the guide below explains reliable ways to migrate Gmail to ProtonMail safely. Particularly, the manual methods and a professional CloudXena Gmail Backup Tool. These methods help you transfer all emails with folders and attachments while preserving the original structure

 

 

Why Migrate from Gmail to ProtonMail?

The table below helps users understand why professionals choose ProtonMail over Gmail.

Basis of Comparison Gmail ProtonMail
Explanation Google’s free email service offers storage, filters, and cloud-based features. A privacy-focused email service providing end-to-end encrypted email storage.
Accessibility Requires a Google account login Accessible through Proton Mail web and apps
Security Level Basic encryption Strong end-to-end encryption with Swiss privacy laws
Platform Dependency Google ecosystem

Independent, privacy-centric

Data Visibility

Google scans data for services

Zero-access encryption, no data scanning
Speed & UI

Fast with ads inside Gmail

Clean interface without ads
Use Case Regular email usage Strict privacy, legal teams, journalists, and enterprises

Free Methods to Migrate Gmail to ProtonMail

In this section, we are going to discuss several manual methods to transfer our email data from Gmail to ProtonMail. However, it depends on the users which one they choose according to their requirements.

Method 1: Transfer Emails from Gmail to Proton Mail

ProtonMail includes a built-in tool for paid users called Proton Mail Import Assistant, which helps users transfer Gmail to ProtonMail. Henceforth, follow the steps below:

  1. First, open Proton Mail and sign in to your account.
  2. Then, visit the Import Assistant from the Proton Mail settings.
  3. Next, choose Google or Gmail as the email provider.
  4. Further, sign in with your Gmail account and allow access.
  5. Then, select the Emails or folders that you want to import.
  6. Finally, click Start Import and wait until the process completes.

Method 2: Migrate Gmail Emails to ProtonMail with Email Forwarding

  1. First, log in to GmailSee All SettingsForwarding and POP/IMAP.
  2. After that, enter your ProtonMail credentials under the Forwarding section. Click Next.
  3. Further, authenticate and go back to the Forwarding and POP/IMAP tab.
  4. Moving on, choose to forward a copy of incoming emails.
  5. Finally, all future emails will be forwarded to ProtonMail automatically.

Note: This method only migrates your upcoming emails, not the previously received emails.

Limitations of the Manual Methods

  • Works slower for large mailboxes or multiple Gmail accounts.
  • Sometimes folders do not transfer exactly as they appear in Gmail.
  • Attachments may take longer, especially for older emails.
  • Internet disconnection can interrupt the import process.
  • No advanced filters, such as date range, spam removal, or duplicate avoidance.

Proficient Method to Migrate Gmail to ProtonMail

For users who want a reliable way to secure their Gmail data, the Gmail Backup Tool is the most effective solution. This tool allows you to download and save your Gmail emails with attachments while preserving the original folder structure. Also, it supports both single-user and multiple-account backups, making it suitable for individuals, professionals, and organizations. Moreover, with advanced filters, you can back up only the required folders, select a specific date range, or save certain email types. Additionally, its secure login ensures complete protection of your Gmail data, guaranteeing that every email is backed up safely without any data loss.

Procedure to Migrate from Gmail to ProtonMail

  1. Initially, download and launch the CloudXena Gmail Backup tool on your PC.
  2. Step-1
  3. Then, choose your login methods then enter your Gmail credentials, and click Sign in.
  4. Step-2
  5. Further, select the Gmail folders you wish to migrate from the list and click Next.
  6. Step-3
  7. Next, click on Migrate in Email Client and choose the IMAP option as export format, and login with your ProtonMail credentials.
  8. Step-4
  9. Afterwards, apply the required advanced features, then click Next.
  10. Step-5
  11. Finally, click Download to start your migration.
  12. Step-6

Conclusion

Generally, Gmail stores your entire mailbox within the Google environment. However, migrating emails to ProtonMail gives you stronger privacy, encrypted access, and long-term data safety. The manual Import Assistant works for basic requirements, but becomes slow when handling large or sensitive Gmail mailboxes. For legal professionals, businesses, and security-focused individuals, it’s better to use a professional tool. Therefore, the CloudXena Gmail Backup Tool is the best option to migrate Gmail to ProtonMail, ensuring flawless folder structure and attachment preservation.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1. Can I move my Gmail emails straight to ProtonMail in bulk?

Ans. Yes, Proton Mail Import Assistant supports bulk transfers, and professional tools offer even faster bulk migration.

Q2. Can I transfer specific Gmail folders to ProtonMail?

Ans. Yes, you can choose selective folders using both ProtonMail Import Assistant and CloudXena’s filter options.

Q3. Will my Gmail password stay safe while migrating emails?

Ans. Yes, both ProtonMail and CloudXena use secure sign-in methods to protect your credentials.

Q4. What is the best method to transfer Gmail emails to ProtonMail?

Ans. For small mailboxes, Proton Mail Import Assistant works well. For large or business accounts, using a dedicated tool is the most reliable method.

About The Author:

I, Simran Bhatia am a Technical Content Writer specializing in data management, email migration, and data recovery IT solutions. My focus is on simplifying complex processes into clear, practical guides that combine technical accuracy with real-world value for IT admins, decision-makers, and everyday users. For me, writing is not just about explaining technology, it’s about making it accessible, reliable, and valuable for readers.

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