Importing KiCad Projects

Import

Run from the current repository root and import into . so the user can see the generated files. Preserve the source and existing work; do not create a separate repository or import outside the checkout.

pcb import /path/to/design.kicad_pro .

Use .kicad_pro for the complete project, including PCB, rules, and source archive. For schematic-only import, pass the root .kicad_sch; this creates a minimal persistent KiCad project but no PCB or archive. Keep child sheets and local libraries together. Do not silently fall back to schematic-only import.

Ask before using --force: it replaces generated content. Standalone reimport preserves a matching PCB's geometry, routing, stackup, and project configuration while updating identity/net bindings.

Inspect

Read .kicad.import.extraction.json and .kicad.validation.diagnostics.json for generated paths and findings.

Import preserves native hierarchy, symbols, wiring, no-connects, and graphics while binding component and net identities. Do not redesign or reconstruct the schematic.