How to Convert EML to JSON in 2026? Complete Ways Explained

  

Rollins Duke   
Published: May 11th, 2026 • 6 Min Read

Through this guide we will help you understand the complete process to convert EML to JSON in a detailed way. As there is no direct method that is why many users struggle to find a reliable approach. Therefore, in this article we have mentioned the practical methods along with their limitations so that a user should have a proper and clear understanding of each method.

In addition to it, we have also discussed an automated solution for users who want simple and efficient bulk EML to JSON conversion with complete data security and guarantee. So, be with us till the end.

Why Direct EML to JSON Conversion is Not Available?

EML and JSON are completely different file formats, EML stores email messages with MIME formatting, attachments, headers and metadata, whereas JSON is a structured format which is mainly used for applications and databases. That is why as the both formats serve different purposes the direct conversion is not possible.

However, to convert EML to JSON the email data first needs to be parsed, extracted and then reorganized into JSON key-value pairs. Since every user requires different JSON structures based on their needs, most of the tools do not provide a default export option and instead they offer customization solutions.

Top Reasons to Convert EML to JSON

• JSON is a lightweight format that allows users to easily process, analyze and share files across multiple platforms.
• Cybersecurity experts use JSON formats to examine harmful emails and maintain structured email records.
• JSON data helps to filter emails fast and make email searching and sorting more simple.

Important Considerations Before Converting EML to JSON

These are some essential steps that every user should take before starting with any process.

• Always create a copy of your EML files on a safer side to recover data if lost.
• Organize all your EML files in folders to simplify the process and avoid confusion.
• Completely understand the manual method before processing it.
• Validate the generated JSON structure to avoid corrupted or unreadable data.
• Make sure the conversion process you choose maintains the data privacy and email integrity.

Manual Methods to Convert EML to JSON

There are 2 free manual ways using which you can hassle-free save your EML files to JSON format. Follow them as explained without skipping any step.

Method 1- Use Python Script

This is one of the easiest techniques for technically skilled users.

1. Save your EML files in a folder.
2. Install the Python application on your system.
3. After that, open Command Prompt or Terminal.
4. Next, run this below provided script.

import email

import json

# Load EML file

with open(“sample.eml”, “r”, encoding=”utf-8″) as file:

    msg = email.message_from_file(file)

# Extract email data

email_data = {

    “Subject”: msg[“subject”],

    “From”: msg[“from”],

    “To”: msg[“to”],

    “Date”: msg[“date”],

    “Body”: “”

}

# Get email body

if msg.is_multipart():

    for part in msg.walk():

        if part.get_content_type() == “text/plain”:

            email_data[“Body”] = part.get_payload(decode=True).decode(errors=”ignore”)

else:

    email_data[“Body”] = msg.get_payload(decode=True).decode(errors=”ignore”)

# Save as JSON

with open(“output.json”, “w”, encoding=”utf-8″) as json_file:

    json.dump(email_data, json_file, indent=4)

print(“EML converted to JSON successfully!”)

5. Replace the sample.eml with your EML folder name.
6. Once done, run the script.
7. The JSON file will be automatically created and saved.

Method 2- Using Thunderbird

Make sure you have an updated version of Thunderbird.

1. Open Thunderbird.
2. Go to the location of your EML files.
3. Simply drag and drop them into the Thunderbird folder.
4. Now, open the email and copy its content.
5. Paste it into a text editor.
6. Thereafter, fill the email fields manually in JSON format like this:

{

  “Subject”: “Test Email”,

  “From”: “[email protected]”,

  “To”: “[email protected]”,

  “Date”: “11 May 2026”,

  “Body”: “This is a sample email.”

}

7. Save the file in the .json extension.

Limitations of the Manual Methods

While these methods can be seen as simple and easy to copy-paste, in reality they are not. Both approaches hold their own drawbacks that we have listed below:

• They are time-consuming processes especially for users who have bulk EML files data.
• Not suitable approaches for non-technical users.
• During conversion, there is a high risk of losing data like attachments, metadata, header or inline images.
• Both the methods require technical knowledge and are more error-prone.
• Installation of Thunderbird email client is required in the second manual way.
• Converting large EML files may slow down the process or lead to script failures.

Conclusion

At last, I would recommend you to choose the right method that matches your technical skills, requirements and volume of EML files you are dealing with, to ensure a safe and easy process. Here, we have explained manual ways to convert EML to JSON but they are only useful for small-scale requirements and sometimes result in losing sensitive data. Whereas, the EML to JSON converter will help you perform the entire conversion in just a few minutes while ensuring complete data security throughout the process. So, choose wisely after understanding all the pros and cons of each method.