How DNA Uploads Work
How DNA Uploads Work
Want to double your DNA matches and find new relatives on other databases without buying a new kit? Here is your complete guide to free DNA uploading.
Save Over $200
Don’t pay for multiple kits. Use your existing DNA data file on compatible platforms for free.
Double Your Matches
Connect with entirely new cousin circles who tested with other companies.
Access New Tools
Unlock advanced features like chromosome browsers and unique ethnicity estimates.
The DNA Compatibility Matrix
Some major databases are “closed gardens”—they let you export your data but won’t let you upload files from other sites. Here is who accepts uploads:
| DNA Database | Accepts Free Uploads? | Best For… | Cost to Upload |
|---|---|---|---|
| MyHeritage | Yes | European matches & matching tools | 100% Free (Optional unlock for advanced tools) |
| FamilyTreeDNA (FTDNA) | Yes | Ancient origins & lineage tracking | 100% Free (Optional unlock for chromosome browser) |
| GEDmatch | Yes | Advanced triangulation & DNA tools | 100% Free (Premium tiers available) |
| LivingDNA | Yes | Deep UK & regional British breakdowns | 100% Free (Optional upgrade for details) |
| AncestryDNA | No | Export only (Largest global database) | Must purchase an AncestryDNA kit |
| 23andMe | No | Export only (Health & ancestry) | Must purchase a 23andMe kit |
The Universal Upload Process
Get Your Raw DNA File
Go to your testing provider (Ancestry or 23andMe), navigate to Settings, and request your “Raw DNA Data”. They will email you a secure link to download a ZIP file. (Read our Raw DNA Guide here).
Upload to the New Platform
Create a free account on the target database (like MyHeritage), go to their “Upload DNA” page, and drag and drop your downloaded file.
Wait for Processing
The system takes between 24 and 72 hours to scan your genomic data and compare it to their entire database. Once complete, you’ll receive an email notification.
⚠️ CRITICAL RULE: Do Not Unzip the File!
When you download your raw DNA, it will save to your computer or phone as a compressed ZIP folder (e.g., AncestryDNA.zip). Do not unzip or extract this file. DNA upload systems are specifically programmed to read the zipped text file. If you extract it, the upload will fail.
Step-by-Step Upload Instructions
Click on a platform below to see exactly how and where to upload your Raw DNA file safely.
🌳 Uploading to MyHeritage DNA
MyHeritage has the world’s most robust global database, making it fantastic for European, Scandinavian, and international family research.
- Go to MyHeritage.com and register a free account.
- In the main menu, hover over the DNA tab and click Upload DNA data.
- Click Start and follow the simple consent prompts.
- Click Upload and select the raw ZIP file from your device.
- Your matches and basic ethnicity estimates will appear in 1 to 3 days!
🧬 Uploading to FamilyTreeDNA (FTDNA)
FTDNA is one of the oldest and most respected DNA databases. Their free upload is incredible for tracing deep lineage origins.
- Go to FamilyTreeDNA.com.
- In the top menu, click DNA Uploads and select Autosomal Transfer.
- Enter your name, email, and choose your biological sex.
- Click Upload and choose your zipped raw DNA file.
- Your dashboard will be created immediately, and matches will process within 24-48 hours.
🧮 Uploading to GEDmatch
GEDmatch is a free, utility-driven site that connects testers who used different companies. It features advanced chromosome matching and triangulation tools.
- Go to GEDmatch.com and create a free profile.
- On your main dashboard, look under the “Upload your DNA files” box and click Generic Upload (Fastest).
- Fill out the form (name, alias, and your test kit provider).
- Choose your Privacy Setting (see details in the safety section below).
- Browse and select your zipped raw DNA file and click Upload.
🇬🇧 Uploading to LivingDNA
LivingDNA is an excellent UK-based service. Their database specializes heavily in localized British Isles and European ancestry breakdowns.
- Go to LivingDNA.com and click “Sign Up” to create a free account.
- Once logged in, click Upload DNA in your dashboard navigation.
- Answer the consent and privacy questions.
- Select your zipped raw DNA file and click upload.
- Basic regional matches are free, with an optional paid upgrade to unlock a highly localized British regional map.
🔒 Privacy & Data Security
Uploading your DNA is highly secure if you use established platforms. MyHeritage and FamilyTreeDNA use bank-grade encryption and will never sell or share your genetic data with third parties. For GEDmatch, you are in total control of your privacy: during the upload step, you can opt to exclude your kit from law enforcement searches (opt-out), or choose to make your kit entirely private (no matches) to only utilize their advanced statistical tools.