Fix: Cannot import .ics on iPhone

Troubleshoot file issues and import reliably.

Published 1/7/2025

Why iOS sometimes says “no”

Apple’s built‑in importer is intentionally conservative. If the file is large, malformed, or includes time zone data it doesn’t understand, iOS may not present an import option. This protects users, but it’s frustrating when the file is legitimate.

Diagnose the issue

Ask these questions:

  • Was the download complete? Re‑download to be sure.
  • Is it actually an .ics file? Some services send HTML download pages.
  • Does the file contain dozens of events or complex recurrences?

A pragmatic workaround

Use a dedicated importer that surfaces a preview and handles more of the iCalendar edge cases. It’s the easiest path when the system flow stalls.

Get ICSKit on the App Store

Quick instructions (optional)

  • Try opening from Mail and from Files.
  • Restart the download, then tap again.
  • In ICSKit: Add ICS to Calendar → select file → choose calendar.

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