Issue with Importing Contacts to iCloud via vCard

I've been facing an issue while trying to import my contacts to my iCloud account using the vCard method. Initially, I received an error message stating: "Could Not Import Some Contacts: Contact(s) could not be imported because there was a problem reading the vCard," which prevented some of my contacts from being uploaded correctly. To address this, I did some research and came across this helpful article: How to Upload Contacts to iCloud and Import VCF Error Resolved!


Following the steps outlined in the article, I was able to resolve the issue by using the email and sync method on my iPhone.


However, I later attempted to import my contacts into iCloud using the default method. But, only about 100 out of the total 250 contacts were imported successfully. To investigate further, I identified the contacts that were not imported and attempted to import them individually. However, iCloud displayed an error message stating: "Cannot import because the format is not OK," along with a "Learn more" button. Clicking on the "Learn more" button redirected me to this support page: Limits for iCloud Contacts, Calendars, Reminders, Bookmarks, and Maps - Apple Support.


After reviewing the requirements and limitations on that page, I realized that my vCards meet all the specified criteria. At this point, I'm uncertain if I might have used certain fields within the vCards that iCloud does not support. I'm stuck and unable to proceed with the default import to iCloud method.


Is there anyone here who has encountered a similar issue and found a solution? Your assistance would be greatly appreciated.


Thank you in advance for your help!


Best regards,

Aswin



iPhone 11, iOS 16

Posted on Oct 2, 2023 9:55 AM

Reply
Question marked as Top-ranking reply

Posted on Oct 4, 2023 9:21 AM

Hi aswinpnr,


Thanks for posting in Apple Support Communities.


We understand that you're not able to import vCards into iCloud without encountering various errors. Because you're trying to import the contacts using iPhone, try using a computer. Apple has guidance on how to handle this behavior if you're using a Mac.


If an app can’t import vCards into Contacts on Mac

Contacts exports contact information as vCard 3.0 files, but some apps don’t accept files in this format. If an app can’t import vCards you exported, try changing the vCard file format, then exporting the vCards again.
1. In the Contacts app  on your Mac, choose Contacts > Settings, then click vCard.
2. Select the 2.1 vCard format.
3. Export the contacts again; change the encoding as necessary.
4. Be sure to select the 3.0 vCard format again when you’re done.

If an app can’t import vCards into Contacts on Mac - Apple Support


Regards.


Similar questions

2 replies
Question marked as Top-ranking reply

Oct 4, 2023 9:21 AM in response to aswinpnr

Hi aswinpnr,


Thanks for posting in Apple Support Communities.


We understand that you're not able to import vCards into iCloud without encountering various errors. Because you're trying to import the contacts using iPhone, try using a computer. Apple has guidance on how to handle this behavior if you're using a Mac.


If an app can’t import vCards into Contacts on Mac

Contacts exports contact information as vCard 3.0 files, but some apps don’t accept files in this format. If an app can’t import vCards you exported, try changing the vCard file format, then exporting the vCards again.
1. In the Contacts app  on your Mac, choose Contacts > Settings, then click vCard.
2. Select the 2.1 vCard format.
3. Export the contacts again; change the encoding as necessary.
4. Be sure to select the 3.0 vCard format again when you’re done.

If an app can’t import vCards into Contacts on Mac - Apple Support


Regards.


Oct 4, 2023 10:35 AM in response to ASTRO24

I appreciate your assistance with the vCard import issue. I actually used a web browser to upload the contacts to iCloud, as I was encountering errors when attempting to do it directly on my iPhone. It's good to know that Apple provides guidance for Mac users in case they encounter similar issues. Thank you for the suggestion!


But, That's not the answer I'm looking for.

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Issue with Importing Contacts to iCloud via vCard

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