> ## Documentation Index
> Fetch the complete documentation index at: https://docs-2.manicule.dev/docs/llms.txt
> Use this file to discover all available pages before exploring further.
> For every page in one file, fetch https://docs-2.manicule.dev/docs/llms-full.txt (large).
> To search and read these docs as tools, connect the MCP server at https://docs-2.manicule.dev/docs/api/mcp.
> Every agent surface: https://docs-2.manicule.dev/docs/.well-known/llms-manifest.json

# Import Existing Projects (/docs/getting-started/import-projects)

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Related: [Download & Install Desktop Workspace](/docs/getting-started/installation.md), [Cloud Studio Quickstart](/docs/getting-started/quickstart.md), [Starter Templates](/docs/getting-started/templates.md), [Welcome to BhaiCode](/docs/index.md)

> Import and continue building existing GitHub or GitLab repositories in BhaiCode.

You can bring existing codebases directly into the **Desktop Workspace** or **Cloud Studio**.

***

## Importing into Desktop Workspace

Because BhaiCode Desktop runs natively on your machine, importing an existing repository is instantaneous:

1. Open **BhaiCode Desktop**.
2. Click **Open Folder** on the welcome screen (or press `Cmd + O` / `Ctrl + O`).
3. Select any local folder containing your project.
4. BhaiCode reads your project tree, `.gitignore`, package dependencies, and Git history.

> **Local Git Integrity**: BhaiCode Desktop respects your local Git branches, remotes, and commit history. It never modifies your `.git` directory without your explicit permission.

***

## Importing into Cloud Studio

To import an existing remote repository into the browser-based Cloud Studio:

1. Connect your **GitHub** or **GitLab** account via [Connectors](/docs/connectors/github).
2. On the [Dashboard](https://app.bhaico.de), click **New Project** → **Import Repository**.
3. Select your repository from the list.
4. Choose your working branch (e.g., `main`).
5. Add any required Environment Variables (API keys, secrets).
6. Click **Import & Open Studio**.

Cloud Studio clones the repository tree, detects the framework configuration, launches the live preview, and prepares Bhai with full codebase context.
