This article provides a step-by-step guide on importing Telegram contacts from external platforms into Manychat. With the import feature, you can easily upload a list of Telegram IDs collected externally and integrate them seamlessly into your Telegram automation channel, enhancing your communication and engagement capabilities
How does Manychat identify a contact?
Manychat identifies contacts using a unique Telegram identifier, known as the Telegram ID. This ID is a specific number linked to a Telegram contact and is required when uploading contacts.
⚠️Note! Telegram usernames cannot be used for importing purposes.
Additionally, you can only transfer contacts who were previously subscribed to the same bot using a different service. Telegram restricts messaging to contacts who have already subscribed to the bot in question. During the import process, Telegram verifies each contact to ensure they are subscribers of your bot. Any Telegram IDs belonging to contacts who have not previously subscribed will be ignored during the transfer.
Exporting contacts from other platforms
Many Telegram automation platforms offer the option to export collected contact databases, typically in a CSV format. However, the process and location of this setting can vary between platforms. Some platforms allow you to perform the export directly through their interface, while others may require you to contact their support team for assistance. If you're unsure how to export your contacts, we recommend reaching out to the support team of the platform you’re using for detailed guidance.
Importing Telegram contacts to Manychat
Follow these steps to successfully import Telegram contacts into your Manychat account:
- Navigate to Contacts > click on Import:
- Upload a CSV file containing the list of contacts you want to import. Check the tickbox to confirm that you have obtained appropriate consent to send messages, and that all contacts comply with applicable laws and regulations, as well as Manychat's Terms of Service. Click Next to proceed.
- Match the columns in the CSV file to the System and Custom Fields in Manychat.
If some fields are missing but you want to include them, you can add those fields in Settings → Fields.
⚠️Note: The Telegram ID column in your CSV file must match the Telegram User ID System field, as it is essential for processing contacts.
- If needed, create a tag to categorize the imported contacts. Then click Confirm Import.
- Wait for the import process to complete
- A circular progress bar will indicate the status of the import.
- The number of created and updated contacts will be displayed.
⚠️Note: Telegram only allows messaging subscribers who were previously subscribed to the same bot. During the import, Telegram verifies that each contact is an actual subscriber of your bot. Any Telegram IDs that are not linked to previous subscribers of your bot will not be imported.
Once the import is complete, refresh the page. All imported contacts, including their names and associated variables from Telegram, will appear under the Contacts tab.
You can start messaging these contacts immediately by clicking Start Chat.
By following these steps, you can seamlessly integrate your Telegram contacts into Manychat and start leveraging them for your automation workflows.