---
title: import
description: "## What is the import permission in WordPress? The import permission allows users to import content and media to a WordPress site. This permission will not work unless you also have the [export](https://publishpress.com/knowledge-base/export-permission/) permission. If you have both the export…"
url: "https://publishpress.com/knowledge-base/import/"
updated: "2026-10-14"
category: WordPress Permissions / WordPress Permissions
---

# import

## What is the import permission in WordPress?

The import permission allows users to import content and media to a WordPress site.

This permission will not work unless you also have the [export](https://publishpress.com/knowledge-base/export-permission/) permission.

If you have both the export and import permissions, you will be able to go to "Tools" and then "Import". Initially, the screen will not have any options:

![Import Screen](https://publishpress.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/10/import-screen-1024x231.png)
Import Screen

The Import process relies on plugins. Any user with the [install_plugins](https://publishpress.com/knowledge-base/install-plugins/) permission will be able to add import options. This screenshot below shows the options available on the "Import" screen to a user with the [install_plugins](https://publishpress.com/knowledge-base/install-plugins/) permission.

![Install Plugins Import](https://publishpress.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/10/install-plugins-import-1024x657.png)
Install Plugins Import

---

## Who has the import permission?

The import permission is available on single WordPress sites and on multisite networks.

By default, the import permission is only given to [Super Admins](https://publishpress.com/links/super-admin) and Administrators.

Users not in these roles are not allowed to import site data.

---

## How to control who has the import permission

You can control who has the import permission by installing the [PublishPress Capabilities](https://publishpress.com/links/capabilities) plugin.

- After installing [PublishPress Capabilities](https://publishpress.com/links/capabilities), go to "Capabilities" in your WordPress admin menu.
- Using the dropdown in the top-left corner, choose the role you want to edit.
- Click the "Admin" tab.
- Check the box "import".
- Click "Save Changes".

![](https://publishpress.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/import-1024x441.png)
Import Permission