How to Export a GEDCOM File from FamilySearch

FamilySearch's shared Family Tree doesn't have a built-in "Export to GEDCOM" button like other platforms. But there are two easy ways to get your data: use a free browser extension, or connect FamilySearch directly to TreeAlive (no file needed). Both options take just a few minutes.

Step-by-step instructions

Install the GEDCOM Exporter extension

Open Google Chrome or Microsoft Edge. Search the Chrome Web Store for "GEDCOM Exporter for FamilySearch" and click "Add to Chrome."

Go to familysearch.org and sign in with your FamilySearch account.

Navigate to your ancestor

Open the Family Tree and navigate to the person you'd like to start from (usually yourself or a grandparent).

Open the extension

Click the extension icon in your browser toolbar (puzzle piece icon, then select GEDCOM Exporter).

Choose how many generations

Select the number of ancestor generations to include. 6–8 generations gives a great result and typically covers 200–500 people.

Export and download

Click "Export" and wait for the file to be generated. Save the downloaded .ged file to your computer.

Tip

Don't want to install an extension? TreeAlive can connect directly to your FamilySearch account — no GEDCOM file needed. Look for the green "Sign in with FamilySearch" button on the TreeAlive home page.

See what you'll create

🎬 Watch a sample video Watch an ancestry journey unfold across the map over hundreds of years. Watch video →

🗺️ Explore the Time Machine Click any ancestor to see their world on a real historical map from their era. Explore example →

Ready to see your ancestors' journey?

Upload your GEDCOM file and watch their migrations come alive on the map.

Upload Your GEDCOM Free · No account needed · Nothing stored