How to bulk import issues with Advanced Links via CSV?

Users who have previously worked with SAJ in onPrem instances are used to update Advanced Links values in bulk using a default Jira importer. This option is unavailable in the Cloud due to Adavcned lInks no longer being stored as custom fields. However, there is a workaround. In this case, we recommend importing Advanced Links as default links. Then, post-import, use our automated tool to convert default links into Advanced. The tool also provides an option to delete the default links, and after conversion, no extra data or configuration is cramming the assets view.

The default links value import is executed via Jira’s External Import System.

Step 1: Prepare the CSV file

Prepare a CSV file according to the requirements. Add a separate column for each default link type and name it according to the link name in the issue view, e.g. blocks.

Step 2: Import & Field Mapping

Go to Settings → System → External System Import in Jira administration. Follow the steps outlined by the import wizard.

On the field mapping stage, map the link column to the corresponding default one:

Map other fields or skip according to your requirements.

Required result: Default links should link the issues in the same way as the Advanced Links should.

Step 3: Set up Advanced Link configuration

Configure Advanced Links manually or use a configuration import tool.

Step 4: Convert default links into Advanced

Conversion is automated and described here: Link Migration: default to Advanced

In this step, you can choose not to keep the default links after conversion:

That’s it! After this, issues will be updated with new connections automatically and within a few simple steps!