Repository: zulip/zulip
Pull request #34043: help: Add article about moving to Zulip Cloud from self-hosting.
Author: login: laurynmm
Labels: name: area: documentation (user)
name: priority: high
name: size: XL
Created: 2025-03-17T20:03:09Z | Merged: 2025-03-20T00:06:27Z

Adds a help center article that provides an overview and guide for moving from a self-hosted Zulip organization to using Zulip Cloud.

Updates the bullet points with the advantages of Zulip Cloud that is also used in the help center article about choosing between Zulip Cloud and self-hosting.

Fixes #24042.

---

**Screenshots and screen captures:**

| Help center location | Screenshot |
| --- | --- |
| New "Move to Zulip Cloud" article | ![Screenshot from 2025-03-18 12-40-45](https://github.com/user-attachments/assets/9a2b80b6-bae5-4409-9841-86c543dcbb36) ![Screenshot from 2025-03-18 12-40-56](https://github.com/user-attachments/assets/cdbfe114-aa1d-4397-9959-d7080a4cbbfc) |
| Support section of left sidebar | ![Screenshot from 2025-03-17 20-58-24](https://github.com/user-attachments/assets/1283cb4d-0a80-428b-bb3e-0a52467cda48)  |
| [Zulip Cloud or self-hosting?](https://zulip.com/help/zulip-cloud-or-self-hosting) | ![Screenshot from 2025-03-17 20-58-36](https://github.com/user-attachments/assets/b255cc39-7970-46c1-a8d4-ba644a455eb1) |

---

<details>
<summary>Self-review checklist</summary>

<!-- Prior to submitting a PR, follow our step-by-step guide to review your own code:
https://zulip.readthedocs.io/en/latest/contributing/code-reviewing.html#how-to-review-code -->

<!-- Once you create the PR, check off all the steps below that you have completed.
If any of these steps are not relevant or you have not completed, leave them unchecked.-->

- [ ] [Self-reviewed](https://zulip.readthedocs.io/en/latest/contributing/code-reviewing.html#how-to-review-code) the changes for clarity and maintainability
      (variable names, code reuse, readability, etc.).

Communicate decisions, questions, and potential concerns.

- [ ] Explains differences from previous plans (e.g., issue description).
- [ ] Highlights technical choices and bugs encountered.
- [ ] Calls out remaining decisions and concerns.
- [ ] Automated tests verify logic where appropriate.

Individual commits are ready for review (see [commit discipline](https://zulip.readthedocs.io/en/latest/contributing/commit-discipline.html)).

- [ ] Each commit is a coherent idea.
- [ ] Commit message(s) explain reasoning and motivation for changes.

Completed manual review and testing of the following:

- [ ] Visual appearance of the changes.
- [ ] Responsiveness and internationalization.
- [ ] Strings and tooltips.
- [ ] End-to-end functionality of buttons, interactions and flows.
- [ ] Corner cases, error conditions, and easily imagined bugs.
</details>


Linked issue #24042: Document how to import a self-hosted Zulip organization into Zulip Cloud
At present, we document how to import data from other chat tools into Zulip, but not how to migrate from a self-hosted Zulip organization to Zulip Cloud. We should add an "Import from self-hosted Zulip" help center page in order to address this.

E.g.,`/help/import-from-mattermost` should have some helpful macros and serve as a good example of how the page could be structured. 
Linked issue comments: user: login: zulipbot
created_at: 2023-01-12T02:51:25Z
body: Hello @zulip/server-user-docs members, this issue was labeled with the "area: documentation (user)" label, so you may want to check it out!

<!-- areaLabelAddition -->

author_association: MEMBER
user: login: alya
created_at: 2023-01-12T02:52:54Z
body: @alexmv Would you be up for taking a first pass at this one?

@drrosa has been updating the import help pages recently, and would be a great person to review the PR.
author_association: CONTRIBUTOR
user: login: alya
created_at: 2023-01-12T02:55:18Z
body: I can take a pass of figuring out whether we should link to this page from some marketing pages once we have it.

It should probably also be linked from "and back" on `/help/getting-your-organization-started-with-zulip`

> If you aren’t sure what you need, our high quality export and import tools ([cloud](https://zulip.com/help/export-your-organization), [self-hosted](https://zulip.readthedocs.io/en/latest/production/export-and-import.html)) ensure you can always move from our hosting to yours (and back).
author_association: CONTRIBUTOR
user: login: alexmv
created_at: 2023-01-18T19:59:12Z
body: Hm -- I don't know how to not make it duplicative with https://zulip.readthedocs.io/en/latest/production/export-and-import.html#data-export.  It's also not clear to me what the "import" section would look like other than "email us or https://zulip.readthedocs.io/en/latest/production/export-and-import.html#import-into-a-new-zulip-server"

Taking a step back, how do we characterize the difference between the audience for `/help` and the ReadTheDocs docs?  My impression was that `/help` was primarily for people who had UI access but not shell access.  A few of the "Zulip administration -> Organization basics" topics cross that line, and it's not clear to me why _those_ topics are "basic" enough to merit inclusion but not whole other swaths of https://zulip.readthedocs.io/en/latest/production/deployment.html aren't.
author_association: COLLABORATOR
user: login: alya
created_at: 2023-01-24T07:48:18Z
body: > I don't know how to not make it duplicative with [zulip.readthedocs.io/en/latest/production/export-and-import.html#data-export](https://zulip.readthedocs.io/en/latest/production/export-and-import.html#data-export).

I think it's fine if one of the steps is "follow the instructions on [zulip.readthedocs.io/en/latest/production/export-and-import.html#data-export](https://zulip.readthedocs.io/en/latest/production/export-and-import.html#data-export).
author_association: CONTRIBUTOR
user: login: alya
created_at: 2023-01-24T07:49:50Z
body: > It's also not clear to me what the "import" section would look like other than "email us or [zulip.readthedocs.io/en/latest/production/export-and-import.html#import-into-a-new-zulip-server](https://zulip.readthedocs.io/en/latest/production/export-and-import.html#import-into-a-new-zulip-server)"

I think "email us" with full details of what to send is still helpful; see, e.g., https://zulip.com/help/import-from-slack#import-your-data-into-zulip.
author_association: CONTRIBUTOR
user: login: alya
created_at: 2023-01-24T07:54:38Z
body: > Taking a step back, how do we characterize the difference between the audience for /help and the ReadTheDocs docs?

This topic is for folks moving to Cloud, and also folks debating as to whether to use Zulip Cloud or self-host, so it feels reasonable to put it in the help center? Also, it goes nicely with the other "Import from X" pages. But if you think all the content describe makes more sense as a production docs page, that could be an option as well. 
author_association: CONTRIBUTOR
user: login: alya
created_at: 2023-01-24T07:57:04Z
body: > A few of the "Zulip administration -> Organization basics" topics cross that line,

Which ones do you have in mind? The other import pages?
author_association: CONTRIBUTOR
user: login: Formasitchijoh
created_at: 2023-02-07T00:50:18Z
body: @alya  I think is a great idea having a user section for migrating large self-hosted-zulip organization to the zulip cloud .  I would like to work on this issue , but referencing from https://zulip.readthedocs.io/en/stable/production/export-and-import.html  i didn't find much about it, is there any other resource you could help me with so i can start on the issue. 
author_association: NONE
user: login: nimishmedatwal
created_at: 2024-03-28T09:50:00Z
body: @zulipbot claim

author_association: COLLABORATOR

Diff:
diff --git a/help/include/advantages-of-self-hosting-zulip.md b/help/include/advantages-of-self-hosting-zulip.md
index c83e00cfb846e..65b4ce9b164ee 100644
--- a/help/include/advantages-of-self-hosting-zulip.md
+++ b/help/include/advantages-of-self-hosting-zulip.md
@@ -1,22 +1,23 @@
-* All [self-hosted plans](https://zulip.com/plans/#self-hosted) offer the same
-  [100% open-source software] [zulip-github]. Organizations that do not require
-  support with their installation can always use Zulip for free with no
-  limitations.
-
-* Retain full control over your data and simplify compliance by self-hosting
-  Zulip behind your firewall.
-
-* We work hard to make it easy to [install][install-zulip], [back
-  up][back-up-zulip], and [maintain][maintain-zulip] a self-hosted
-  Zulip server. Self-host Zulip directly on Ubuntu or Debian Linux, in
-  <a href="https://github.com/zulip/docker-zulip">Docker</a>, or with
-  prebuilt images for <a
-  href="https://marketplace.digitalocean.com/apps/zulip">Digital
-  Ocean</a> and <a
-  href="https://render.com/docs/deploy-zulip">Render</a>.
-
-* Customize Zulip for all your needs. It's easy to develop and maintain [custom
-  integrations](/api/incoming-webhooks-overview) and [features][modify-zulip].
+* **Under your control**: Retain full control over your data and simplify
+  compliance by self-hosting Zulip behind your firewall.
+* **Access to all of Zulip's features**: All [self-hosted
+  plans](https://zulip.com/plans/#self-hosted) offer the same [100% open-source
+  software] [zulip-github]. Organizations that do not require support with their
+  installation can always use Zulip for free with no limitations.
+* **Simple set-up process**: It's easy to [install][install-zulip] Zulip
+  directly on Ubuntu or Debian Linux, in <a
+  href="https://github.com/zulip/docker-zulip">Docker</a>, or with prebuilt
+  images for <a href="https://marketplace.digitalocean.com/apps/zulip">Digital
+  Ocean</a> and <a href="https://render.com/docs/deploy-zulip">Render</a>.
+* **Easy to maintain**: Zulip offers convenient tools for [backing
+  up][back-up-zulip], and [maintaining][maintain-zulip] a self-hosted Zulip
+  server.
+* **Customizable**: Customize Zulip for all your needs. It's easy to develop and
+  maintain [custom integrations](/api/incoming-webhooks-overview) and
+  [features][modify-zulip].
+* **Budget option**: For organizations with expertise in self-hosting their
+  tools and a tight budget, the [Zulip Basic
+  plan](https://zulip.com/plans/#self-hosted) can be a great choice.
 
 Learn more about [self-hosting Zulip](https://zulip.com/self-hosting/).
 
diff --git a/help/include/advantages-of-zulip-cloud.md b/help/include/advantages-of-zulip-cloud.md
index 4095c3af20a7d..64c3981b471f6 100644
--- a/help/include/advantages-of-zulip-cloud.md
+++ b/help/include/advantages-of-zulip-cloud.md
@@ -1,4 +1,14 @@
-* Simple managed solution, with no setup or maintenance
-  overhead. [Sign up](https://zulip.com/new/) with just a few clicks.
-* Always updated to the latest version of Zulip.
-* Anyone can [start with Zulip Cloud Free](https://zulip.com/new/).
+* **No setup or maintenance overhead:** Zulip Cloud is a simple SaaS solution,
+  so you don't need to set up your own server. It only take a minute to [sign
+  up](https://zulip.com/new/).
+* **Always up to date:** Zulip Cloud is updated every couple of weeks with the
+  latest version of Zulip. In contrast, new features are
+  [released](https://blog.zulip.com/tag/major-releases/) for self-hosted
+  installations twice a year (with [maintenance
+  releases](https://blog.zulip.com/tag/release-announcements/) in between).
+* **Operated by experts:** Zulip Cloud is operated by the core team developing
+  Zulip, with deep expertise in running your mission-critical chat software with
+  [minimal downtime](https://status.zulip.com/).
+* **Free to get started:** [Zulip Cloud Free](https://zulip.com/plans/#cloud)
+  makes it easy to get started, and has all the features you need for casual
+  use.
diff --git a/help/include/cloud-vs-self-hosting-intro.md b/help/include/cloud-vs-self-hosting-intro.md
deleted file mode 100644
index 9d241e0357e2b..0000000000000
--- a/help/include/cloud-vs-self-hosting-intro.md
+++ /dev/null
@@ -1,11 +0,0 @@
-Whether [signing up for Zulip Cloud](https://zulip.com/new/) or [self-hosting
-Zulip](https://zulip.com/self-hosting/) is the right choice for you depends on
-the needs of your organization.
-
-If you aren’t sure what you need, our high quality export and import tools
-([cloud][export-cloud], [self-hosted][export-self-hosted]) ensure you can always
-move from our hosting to yours (and back). No matter which option you go with,
-free or heavily discounted pricing is available for most non-business uses.
-
-[export-cloud]: /help/export-your-organization
-[export-self-hosted]: https://zulip.readthedocs.io/en/stable/production/export-and-import.html
diff --git a/help/include/sidebar_index.md b/help/include/sidebar_index.md
index cef36943af67e..ea5d0038e5e63 100644
--- a/help/include/sidebar_index.md
+++ b/help/include/sidebar_index.md
@@ -276,6 +276,7 @@
 * [Zulip Cloud billing](/help/zulip-cloud-billing)
 * [Self-hosted billing](/help/self-hosted-billing)
 * [GDPR compliance](/help/gdpr-compliance)
+* [Move to Zulip Cloud](/help/move-to-zulip-cloud)
 * [Support the Zulip project](/help/support-zulip-project)
 * [Linking to the Zulip website](/help/linking-to-zulip-website)
 * [Contact support](/help/contact-support)
diff --git a/help/move-to-zulip-cloud.md b/help/move-to-zulip-cloud.md
new file mode 100644
index 0000000000000..0f31daed6ddaf
--- /dev/null
+++ b/help/move-to-zulip-cloud.md
@@ -0,0 +1,137 @@
+# Move from self-hosting to Zulip Cloud
+
+With Zulip's high quality import and export tools, you can always
+move from self-hosting your own Zulip server to using the Zulip
+Cloud service (and back).
+
+## Process overview
+
+To move your Zulip organization from a self-hosted server to Zulip
+Cloud, you will need to take the following steps, which are described
+in more detail below:
+
+{start_tabs}
+
+1. [Plan the process and coordinate with Zulip support](#plan-the-process-and-coordinate-with-zulip-support).
+
+1. [Upgrade your self-hosted server](#upgrade-your-self-hosted-server).
+
+1. [Export organization data](#export-organization-data).
+
+1. [Decide how users will log in](#decide-how-users-will-log-in).
+
+{end_tabs}
+
+## Plan the process and coordinate with Zulip support
+
+To import your self-hosted organization into Zulip Cloud, your server will need
+to have the same database format as Zulip Cloud. Zulip Cloud is updated every
+couple of weeks, so it's important to coordinate the timing with Zulip's support
+team.
+
+{start_tabs}
+
+1. Review the process described on this page, and decide when you will be ready
+   to make the transition.
+
+1. Email [support@zulip.com](mailto:support@zulip.com) with the following information:
+      - URL of the organization you plan to migrate
+      - Your estimated timeline for generating a data export
+      - Any other timing considerations for the transition (e.g., time of day)
+      - If you're planning to purchase the [Zulip Cloud Plus
+        plan](https://zulip.com/plans), details on the Plus plan features (e.g.,
+        authentication methods) you intend to use. These features will be
+        configured for your organization as part of the import process.
+
+Zulip's support team will coordinate with you to make the transition with
+minimal disruption for your team.
+
+{end_tabs}
+
+## Upgrade your self-hosted server
+
+You will need to upgrade your server to use the same database format
+as Zulip Cloud, using the published `zulip-cloud-current` branch.
+
+{start_tabs}
+
+1. [Check](/help/view-zulip-version#view-zulip-server-and-web-app-version) your
+   Zulip server version.
+
+1. [Upgrade to the latest maintenance
+   release](https://zulip.readthedocs.io/en/stable/production/upgrade.html#upgrading-to-a-release)
+   if you are running an older version of the Zulip server.
+
+1. [Upgrade](https://zulip.readthedocs.io/en/stable/production/upgrade.html#upgrading-from-a-git-repository)
+   to the `zulip-cloud-current` branch.
+
+{end_tabs}
+
+For additional support with upgrading from an older version of Zulip, contact
+[sales@zulip.com](mailto:sales@zulip.com) for paid support options.
+
+## Export organization data
+
+{start_tabs}
+
+1. Make sure you [have a
+   plan](#plan-the-process-and-coordinate-with-zulip-support) for when the
+   import into Zulip Cloud will take place.
+
+1. Announce the migration and schedule Zulip downtime for your team.
+
+1. [Follow these instructions](https://zulip.readthedocs.io/en/stable/production/export-and-import.html#data-export)
+   to export your Zulip data.
+
+1. Send an email to [support@zulip.com](mailto:support@zulip.com) with:
+     - Your data export.
+     - The subdomain you would like to use for your organization. Your Zulip
+       Cloud organization will be hosted at `<subdomain>.zulipchat.com`.
+
+Zulip's support team will let you know when the data import process is complete.
+
+{end_tabs}
+
+## Decide how users will log in
+
+When user accounts are imported, users initially do not have passwords
+configured. There are a few options for how users can log in for the first time.
+
+!!! tip ""
+
+    For security reasons, passwords are never exported.
+
+### Allow users to log in with non-password authentication
+
+Users will immediately be able to log in with [authentication
+methods](/help/configure-authentication-methods) that do not require a password,
+if these [authentication methods](/help/configure-authentication-methods) are
+enabled.
+
+### Send password reset emails to all users
+
+You can ask [support@zulip.com](mailto:support@zulip.com) to send password reset
+emails to all users in your organization, which will allow them to set an
+initial password.
+
+!!! warn ""
+
+    To avoid confusion, first make sure that the users in your
+    organization are aware that their account has been moved,
+    and are expecting to receive a password reset email.
+
+### Manual password resets
+
+Alternatively, users can reset their own passwords by following the instructions
+on your Zulip organization's login page.
+
+## Advantages of Zulip Cloud
+
+{!advantages-of-zulip-cloud.md!}
+
+## Related articles
+
+* [Choosing between Zulip Cloud and self-hosting](/help/zulip-cloud-or-self-hosting)
+* [Zulip Cloud billing](/help/zulip-cloud-billing)
+* [Upgrade Zulip server](https://zulip.readthedocs.io/en/stable/production/upgrade.html)
+* [Zulip data export tool](https://zulip.readthedocs.io/en/stable/production/export-and-import.html#data-export)
diff --git a/help/zulip-cloud-or-self-hosting.md b/help/zulip-cloud-or-self-hosting.md
index 4868601774061..8c72de92304d3 100644
--- a/help/zulip-cloud-or-self-hosting.md
+++ b/help/zulip-cloud-or-self-hosting.md
@@ -1,15 +1,36 @@
 # Choosing between Zulip Cloud and self-hosting
 
-{!cloud-vs-self-hosting-intro.md!}
+This page will help you decide whether [signing up for Zulip
+Cloud](https://zulip.com/new/) or [self-hosting
+Zulip](https://zulip.com/self-hosting/) best fits the needs of your
+organization. For additional guidance, reach out to
+[sales@zulip.com](mailto:sales@zulip.com).
+
+!!! tip ""
+    If your needs change, you can always move [to a self-hosted
+    installation](https://zulip.readthedocs.io/en/stable/production/export-and-import.html#import-into-a-new-zulip-server)
+    or [to Zulip Cloud](/help/move-to-zulip-cloud).
 
 ## Advantages of Zulip Cloud
 
 {!advantages-of-zulip-cloud.md!}
 
+[Sign up](https://zulip.com/new/) with just a few clicks.
+
 ## Advantages of self-hosting Zulip
 
 {!advantages-of-self-hosting-zulip.md!}
 
+## Plans and pricing
+
+Compare [Zulip Cloud](https://zulip.com/plans#cloud) and [self-hosted
+Zulip](https://zulip.com/plans#self-hosted) pricing.
+
+Free or heavily discounted pricing is available for most non-business uses.
+Learn how to apply for a sponsored
+[Cloud](https://zulip.com/help/zulip-cloud-billing#free-and-discounted-zulip-cloud-standard) or
+[self-hosted](https://zulip.com/help/self-hosted-billing#apply-for-community-plan) plan.
+
 ## Related resources
 
 * [Sign up for Zulip Cloud](https://zulip.com/new/)


Reviews:
user: login: timabbott
state: COMMENTED
author_association: MEMBER
submitted_at: 2025-03-17T20:24:15Z
user: login: timabbott
state: COMMENTED
author_association: MEMBER
submitted_at: 2025-03-17T20:25:15Z
user: login: timabbott
state: COMMENTED
author_association: MEMBER
submitted_at: 2025-03-17T20:26:15Z
user: login: timabbott
state: COMMENTED
author_association: MEMBER
submitted_at: 2025-03-17T20:30:49Z
user: login: laurynmm
state: COMMENTED
author_association: COLLABORATOR
submitted_at: 2025-03-18T11:41:09Z
user: login: laurynmm
state: COMMENTED
author_association: COLLABORATOR
submitted_at: 2025-03-18T11:41:36Z
user: login: laurynmm
state: COMMENTED
author_association: COLLABORATOR
submitted_at: 2025-03-18T11:41:51Z
user: login: laurynmm
state: COMMENTED
author_association: COLLABORATOR
submitted_at: 2025-03-18T11:43:19Z
user: login: karlstolley
state: COMMENTED
author_association: CONTRIBUTOR
submitted_at: 2025-03-18T17:10:55Z
user: login: karlstolley
state: COMMENTED
author_association: CONTRIBUTOR
submitted_at: 2025-03-18T17:13:28Z
user: login: karlstolley
state: COMMENTED
author_association: CONTRIBUTOR
submitted_at: 2025-03-18T17:14:46Z
user: login: karlstolley
state: COMMENTED
author_association: CONTRIBUTOR
submitted_at: 2025-03-18T17:15:48Z
user: login: mateuszmandera
body: LGTM, posted two minor tweak suggestions!
state: COMMENTED
author_association: CONTRIBUTOR
submitted_at: 2025-03-19T12:32:24Z
user: login: timabbott
state: COMMENTED
author_association: MEMBER
submitted_at: 2025-03-19T18:44:10Z
user: login: timabbott
state: COMMENTED
author_association: MEMBER
submitted_at: 2025-03-19T18:47:37Z
user: login: timabbott
state: COMMENTED
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submitted_at: 2025-03-19T18:50:06Z
user: login: timabbott
state: COMMENTED
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submitted_at: 2025-03-19T18:50:58Z
user: login: timabbott
state: COMMENTED
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submitted_at: 2025-03-19T18:55:29Z
user: login: timabbott
state: COMMENTED
author_association: MEMBER
submitted_at: 2025-03-19T18:58:24Z
user: login: timabbott
state: COMMENTED
author_association: MEMBER
submitted_at: 2025-03-19T19:02:05Z
user: login: alya
state: COMMENTED
author_association: CONTRIBUTOR
submitted_at: 2025-03-19T20:37:52Z
user: login: alya
state: COMMENTED
author_association: CONTRIBUTOR
submitted_at: 2025-03-19T20:38:48Z
user: login: alya
state: COMMENTED
author_association: CONTRIBUTOR
submitted_at: 2025-03-19T20:40:12Z
user: login: alya
state: COMMENTED
author_association: CONTRIBUTOR
submitted_at: 2025-03-19T20:44:47Z
user: login: alya
state: COMMENTED
author_association: CONTRIBUTOR
submitted_at: 2025-03-19T20:45:40Z
user: login: alya
state: COMMENTED
author_association: CONTRIBUTOR
submitted_at: 2025-03-19T20:49:27Z
user: login: alya
state: COMMENTED
author_association: CONTRIBUTOR
submitted_at: 2025-03-19T20:56:55Z
user: login: timabbott
state: COMMENTED
author_association: MEMBER
submitted_at: 2025-03-20T00:01:42Z

Review comments:
diff_hunk: @@ -0,0 +1,100 @@
+# Move to Zulip Cloud from self-hosting
+
+With Zulip's high quality import and export tools, you can always
+move from self-hosting your own Zulip server to using our Zulip
+Cloud service (and back).
+
+## Advantages of Zulip Cloud
+
+{!advantages-of-zulip-cloud.md!}
+
+## Process overview
+
+To move your Zulip organization from your self-hosted server to Zulip
+Cloud, you will need to take the following steps, which are described
+in more detail below:
+
+{start_tabs}
+
+1. [Coordinate with Zulip Cloud support](#coordinate-with-zulip-cloud-support).
+
+2. [Upgrade server to `zulip-cloud-current` branch](#upgrade-server).
path: help/move-to-zulip-cloud.md
user: login: timabbott
body: Probably this should mention "Upgrade your self-hosted server ..." for clarity.
created_at: 2025-03-17T20:24:15Z
author_association: MEMBER
diff_hunk: @@ -0,0 +1,100 @@
+# Move to Zulip Cloud from self-hosting
+
+With Zulip's high quality import and export tools, you can always
+move from self-hosting your own Zulip server to using our Zulip
+Cloud service (and back).
+
+## Advantages of Zulip Cloud
+
+{!advantages-of-zulip-cloud.md!}
+
+## Process overview
+
+To move your Zulip organization from your self-hosted server to Zulip
+Cloud, you will need to take the following steps, which are described
+in more detail below:
+
+{start_tabs}
+
+1. [Coordinate with Zulip Cloud support](#coordinate-with-zulip-cloud-support).
+
+2. [Upgrade server to `zulip-cloud-current` branch](#upgrade-server).
+
+3. [Export organization data](#export-organization-data).
+
+{end_tabs}
+
+## Coordinate with Zulip Cloud support
+
+Zulip Cloud is updated as new features and other important product
+changes are completed. We highly recommend coordinating the transition
+to Zulip Cloud with our support team so that the process is smooth and
+swift for everyone.
+
+{start_tabs}
+
+1. Review the sections on upgrading your server and exporting your
+   Zulip organization data below, and create an estimated timeline for
+   when you would be able to have your Zulip organization data export
+   ready.
+
+1. [Create a new Zulip Cloud organization](https://zulip.com/new/)
+   with the subdomain you would like for your Zulip organization. Your
+   Zulip Cloud organization will be hosted at `<subdomain>.zulipchat.com`.
+
+1. Email [support@zulip.com](mailto:support@zulip.com) with the URL of
+   your new Zulip Cloud organization, and your estimated timeline for
+   generating the data export.
+
+1. Our support team will confirm if that timeline works, or coordinate
+   an adjusted timeline that works both for your team as well as ours.
+
+{end_tabs}
+
+## Upgrade server
+
+Zulip Cloud runs the `zulip-cloud-current` branch plus some cherry-picked
+changes. This branch is usually delayed by one to two weeks from `main` to
+allow for recent changes to be validated further prior to being deployed
+to customers.
path: help/move-to-zulip-cloud.md
user: login: timabbott
body: This should start with saying "The data import process requires your self-hosted system to be using the same database format as Zulip Cloud, which usually requires upgrading your self-hosted server".
created_at: 2025-03-17T20:25:15Z
author_association: MEMBER
diff_hunk: @@ -0,0 +1,100 @@
+# Move to Zulip Cloud from self-hosting
+
+With Zulip's high quality import and export tools, you can always
+move from self-hosting your own Zulip server to using our Zulip
+Cloud service (and back).
+
+## Advantages of Zulip Cloud
+
+{!advantages-of-zulip-cloud.md!}
+
+## Process overview
+
+To move your Zulip organization from your self-hosted server to Zulip
+Cloud, you will need to take the following steps, which are described
+in more detail below:
+
+{start_tabs}
+
+1. [Coordinate with Zulip Cloud support](#coordinate-with-zulip-cloud-support).
+
+2. [Upgrade server to `zulip-cloud-current` branch](#upgrade-server).
+
+3. [Export organization data](#export-organization-data).
+
+{end_tabs}
+
+## Coordinate with Zulip Cloud support
+
+Zulip Cloud is updated as new features and other important product
+changes are completed. We highly recommend coordinating the transition
+to Zulip Cloud with our support team so that the process is smooth and
+swift for everyone.
+
+{start_tabs}
+
+1. Review the sections on upgrading your server and exporting your
+   Zulip organization data below, and create an estimated timeline for
+   when you would be able to have your Zulip organization data export
+   ready.
+
+1. [Create a new Zulip Cloud organization](https://zulip.com/new/)
+   with the subdomain you would like for your Zulip organization. Your
+   Zulip Cloud organization will be hosted at `<subdomain>.zulipchat.com`.
+
+1. Email [support@zulip.com](mailto:support@zulip.com) with the URL of
+   your new Zulip Cloud organization, and your estimated timeline for
+   generating the data export.
+
+1. Our support team will confirm if that timeline works, or coordinate
+   an adjusted timeline that works both for your team as well as ours.
+
+{end_tabs}
+
+## Upgrade server
+
+Zulip Cloud runs the `zulip-cloud-current` branch plus some cherry-picked
+changes. This branch is usually delayed by one to two weeks from `main` to
+allow for recent changes to be validated further prior to being deployed
+to customers.
+
+{start_tabs}
+
+1. Check the [version your Zulip server](/help/view-zulip-version#view-zulip-server-and-web-app-version)
+   is running.
+
+1. If you are running a version lower than the latest major release,
+   [follow these instructions](https://zulip.readthedocs.io/en/stable/production/upgrade.html#upgrading-to-a-release)
+   to upgrade to the latest maintenance release.
+
+1. [Follow these instructions](https://zulip.readthedocs.io/en/stable/production/upgrade.html#upgrading-from-a-git-repository)
+   to upgrade to the `zulip-cloud-current` branch.
+
+{end_tabs}
path: help/move-to-zulip-cloud.md
user: login: timabbott
body: Probably somewhere on this page, maybe here, we can mention we offer paid support for completing upgrades from old versions to enable a data import, and one can contact sales for details.
created_at: 2025-03-17T20:26:14Z
author_association: MEMBER
diff_hunk: @@ -0,0 +1,100 @@
+# Move to Zulip Cloud from self-hosting
+
+With Zulip's high quality import and export tools, you can always
+move from self-hosting your own Zulip server to using our Zulip
+Cloud service (and back).
+
+## Advantages of Zulip Cloud
+
+{!advantages-of-zulip-cloud.md!}
+
+## Process overview
+
+To move your Zulip organization from your self-hosted server to Zulip
+Cloud, you will need to take the following steps, which are described
+in more detail below:
+
+{start_tabs}
+
+1. [Coordinate with Zulip Cloud support](#coordinate-with-zulip-cloud-support).
+
+2. [Upgrade server to `zulip-cloud-current` branch](#upgrade-server).
+
+3. [Export organization data](#export-organization-data).
+
+{end_tabs}
+
+## Coordinate with Zulip Cloud support
+
+Zulip Cloud is updated as new features and other important product
+changes are completed. We highly recommend coordinating the transition
+to Zulip Cloud with our support team so that the process is smooth and
+swift for everyone.
+
+{start_tabs}
+
+1. Review the sections on upgrading your server and exporting your
+   Zulip organization data below, and create an estimated timeline for
+   when you would be able to have your Zulip organization data export
+   ready.
+
+1. [Create a new Zulip Cloud organization](https://zulip.com/new/)
+   with the subdomain you would like for your Zulip organization. Your
+   Zulip Cloud organization will be hosted at `<subdomain>.zulipchat.com`.
+
+1. Email [support@zulip.com](mailto:support@zulip.com) with the URL of
+   your new Zulip Cloud organization, and your estimated timeline for
+   generating the data export.
+
+1. Our support team will confirm if that timeline works, or coordinate
+   an adjusted timeline that works both for your team as well as ours.
+
+{end_tabs}
+
+## Upgrade server
+
+Zulip Cloud runs the `zulip-cloud-current` branch plus some cherry-picked
+changes. This branch is usually delayed by one to two weeks from `main` to
+allow for recent changes to be validated further prior to being deployed
+to customers.
+
+{start_tabs}
+
+1. Check the [version your Zulip server](/help/view-zulip-version#view-zulip-server-and-web-app-version)
+   is running.
+
+1. If you are running a version lower than the latest major release,
+   [follow these instructions](https://zulip.readthedocs.io/en/stable/production/upgrade.html#upgrading-to-a-release)
+   to upgrade to the latest maintenance release.
+
+1. [Follow these instructions](https://zulip.readthedocs.io/en/stable/production/upgrade.html#upgrading-from-a-git-repository)
+   to upgrade to the `zulip-cloud-current` branch.
+
+{end_tabs}
+
+## Export organization data
+
+!!! warn ""
+
+    Before exporting your data, you’ll want to shut down access to the
+    Zulip organization, so that nobody can send new messages (etc.)
+    once you’re exporting data for the Zulip Cloud import.
+
+{start_tabs}
+
+1. [Follow these instructions](https://zulip.readthedocs.io/en/stable/production/export-and-import.html#data-export)
+   to export your Zulip data.
+
+1. Email the resulting data export to [support@zulip.com](mailto:support@zulip.com).
+
+1. Our support team will contact you when the data import for your
+   Zulip Cloud organization is complete.
path: help/move-to-zulip-cloud.md
user: login: timabbott
body: I think we might want something here about complications that come with the import process, like the detail about passwords not being included?
created_at: 2025-03-17T20:30:49Z
author_association: MEMBER
diff_hunk: @@ -0,0 +1,100 @@
+# Move to Zulip Cloud from self-hosting
+
+With Zulip's high quality import and export tools, you can always
+move from self-hosting your own Zulip server to using our Zulip
+Cloud service (and back).
+
+## Advantages of Zulip Cloud
+
+{!advantages-of-zulip-cloud.md!}
+
+## Process overview
+
+To move your Zulip organization from your self-hosted server to Zulip
+Cloud, you will need to take the following steps, which are described
+in more detail below:
+
+{start_tabs}
+
+1. [Coordinate with Zulip Cloud support](#coordinate-with-zulip-cloud-support).
+
+2. [Upgrade server to `zulip-cloud-current` branch](#upgrade-server).
path: help/move-to-zulip-cloud.md
user: login: laurynmm
body: Done.
created_at: 2025-03-18T11:41:09Z
author_association: COLLABORATOR
diff_hunk: @@ -0,0 +1,100 @@
+# Move to Zulip Cloud from self-hosting
+
+With Zulip's high quality import and export tools, you can always
+move from self-hosting your own Zulip server to using our Zulip
+Cloud service (and back).
+
+## Advantages of Zulip Cloud
+
+{!advantages-of-zulip-cloud.md!}
+
+## Process overview
+
+To move your Zulip organization from your self-hosted server to Zulip
+Cloud, you will need to take the following steps, which are described
+in more detail below:
+
+{start_tabs}
+
+1. [Coordinate with Zulip Cloud support](#coordinate-with-zulip-cloud-support).
+
+2. [Upgrade server to `zulip-cloud-current` branch](#upgrade-server).
+
+3. [Export organization data](#export-organization-data).
+
+{end_tabs}
+
+## Coordinate with Zulip Cloud support
+
+Zulip Cloud is updated as new features and other important product
+changes are completed. We highly recommend coordinating the transition
+to Zulip Cloud with our support team so that the process is smooth and
+swift for everyone.
+
+{start_tabs}
+
+1. Review the sections on upgrading your server and exporting your
+   Zulip organization data below, and create an estimated timeline for
+   when you would be able to have your Zulip organization data export
+   ready.
+
+1. [Create a new Zulip Cloud organization](https://zulip.com/new/)
+   with the subdomain you would like for your Zulip organization. Your
+   Zulip Cloud organization will be hosted at `<subdomain>.zulipchat.com`.
+
+1. Email [support@zulip.com](mailto:support@zulip.com) with the URL of
+   your new Zulip Cloud organization, and your estimated timeline for
+   generating the data export.
+
+1. Our support team will confirm if that timeline works, or coordinate
+   an adjusted timeline that works both for your team as well as ours.
+
+{end_tabs}
+
+## Upgrade server
+
+Zulip Cloud runs the `zulip-cloud-current` branch plus some cherry-picked
+changes. This branch is usually delayed by one to two weeks from `main` to
+allow for recent changes to be validated further prior to being deployed
+to customers.
path: help/move-to-zulip-cloud.md
user: login: laurynmm
body: Done. Cut the line about the branch being delayed, which I'd taken from the production doc.
created_at: 2025-03-18T11:41:36Z
author_association: COLLABORATOR
diff_hunk: @@ -0,0 +1,100 @@
+# Move to Zulip Cloud from self-hosting
+
+With Zulip's high quality import and export tools, you can always
+move from self-hosting your own Zulip server to using our Zulip
+Cloud service (and back).
+
+## Advantages of Zulip Cloud
+
+{!advantages-of-zulip-cloud.md!}
+
+## Process overview
+
+To move your Zulip organization from your self-hosted server to Zulip
+Cloud, you will need to take the following steps, which are described
+in more detail below:
+
+{start_tabs}
+
+1. [Coordinate with Zulip Cloud support](#coordinate-with-zulip-cloud-support).
+
+2. [Upgrade server to `zulip-cloud-current` branch](#upgrade-server).
+
+3. [Export organization data](#export-organization-data).
+
+{end_tabs}
+
+## Coordinate with Zulip Cloud support
+
+Zulip Cloud is updated as new features and other important product
+changes are completed. We highly recommend coordinating the transition
+to Zulip Cloud with our support team so that the process is smooth and
+swift for everyone.
+
+{start_tabs}
+
+1. Review the sections on upgrading your server and exporting your
+   Zulip organization data below, and create an estimated timeline for
+   when you would be able to have your Zulip organization data export
+   ready.
+
+1. [Create a new Zulip Cloud organization](https://zulip.com/new/)
+   with the subdomain you would like for your Zulip organization. Your
+   Zulip Cloud organization will be hosted at `<subdomain>.zulipchat.com`.
+
+1. Email [support@zulip.com](mailto:support@zulip.com) with the URL of
+   your new Zulip Cloud organization, and your estimated timeline for
+   generating the data export.
+
+1. Our support team will confirm if that timeline works, or coordinate
+   an adjusted timeline that works both for your team as well as ours.
+
+{end_tabs}
+
+## Upgrade server
+
+Zulip Cloud runs the `zulip-cloud-current` branch plus some cherry-picked
+changes. This branch is usually delayed by one to two weeks from `main` to
+allow for recent changes to be validated further prior to being deployed
+to customers.
+
+{start_tabs}
+
+1. Check the [version your Zulip server](/help/view-zulip-version#view-zulip-server-and-web-app-version)
+   is running.
+
+1. If you are running a version lower than the latest major release,
+   [follow these instructions](https://zulip.readthedocs.io/en/stable/production/upgrade.html#upgrading-to-a-release)
+   to upgrade to the latest maintenance release.
+
+1. [Follow these instructions](https://zulip.readthedocs.io/en/stable/production/upgrade.html#upgrading-from-a-git-repository)
+   to upgrade to the `zulip-cloud-current` branch.
+
+{end_tabs}
path: help/move-to-zulip-cloud.md
user: login: laurynmm
body: Added a tip for this after this instruction block.
created_at: 2025-03-18T11:41:51Z
author_association: COLLABORATOR
diff_hunk: @@ -0,0 +1,100 @@
+# Move to Zulip Cloud from self-hosting
+
+With Zulip's high quality import and export tools, you can always
+move from self-hosting your own Zulip server to using our Zulip
+Cloud service (and back).
+
+## Advantages of Zulip Cloud
+
+{!advantages-of-zulip-cloud.md!}
+
+## Process overview
+
+To move your Zulip organization from your self-hosted server to Zulip
+Cloud, you will need to take the following steps, which are described
+in more detail below:
+
+{start_tabs}
+
+1. [Coordinate with Zulip Cloud support](#coordinate-with-zulip-cloud-support).
+
+2. [Upgrade server to `zulip-cloud-current` branch](#upgrade-server).
+
+3. [Export organization data](#export-organization-data).
+
+{end_tabs}
+
+## Coordinate with Zulip Cloud support
+
+Zulip Cloud is updated as new features and other important product
+changes are completed. We highly recommend coordinating the transition
+to Zulip Cloud with our support team so that the process is smooth and
+swift for everyone.
+
+{start_tabs}
+
+1. Review the sections on upgrading your server and exporting your
+   Zulip organization data below, and create an estimated timeline for
+   when you would be able to have your Zulip organization data export
+   ready.
+
+1. [Create a new Zulip Cloud organization](https://zulip.com/new/)
+   with the subdomain you would like for your Zulip organization. Your
+   Zulip Cloud organization will be hosted at `<subdomain>.zulipchat.com`.
+
+1. Email [support@zulip.com](mailto:support@zulip.com) with the URL of
+   your new Zulip Cloud organization, and your estimated timeline for
+   generating the data export.
+
+1. Our support team will confirm if that timeline works, or coordinate
+   an adjusted timeline that works both for your team as well as ours.
+
+{end_tabs}
+
+## Upgrade server
+
+Zulip Cloud runs the `zulip-cloud-current` branch plus some cherry-picked
+changes. This branch is usually delayed by one to two weeks from `main` to
+allow for recent changes to be validated further prior to being deployed
+to customers.
+
+{start_tabs}
+
+1. Check the [version your Zulip server](/help/view-zulip-version#view-zulip-server-and-web-app-version)
+   is running.
+
+1. If you are running a version lower than the latest major release,
+   [follow these instructions](https://zulip.readthedocs.io/en/stable/production/upgrade.html#upgrading-to-a-release)
+   to upgrade to the latest maintenance release.
+
+1. [Follow these instructions](https://zulip.readthedocs.io/en/stable/production/upgrade.html#upgrading-from-a-git-repository)
+   to upgrade to the `zulip-cloud-current` branch.
+
+{end_tabs}
+
+## Export organization data
+
+!!! warn ""
+
+    Before exporting your data, you’ll want to shut down access to the
+    Zulip organization, so that nobody can send new messages (etc.)
+    once you’re exporting data for the Zulip Cloud import.
+
+{start_tabs}
+
+1. [Follow these instructions](https://zulip.readthedocs.io/en/stable/production/export-and-import.html#data-export)
+   to export your Zulip data.
+
+1. Email the resulting data export to [support@zulip.com](mailto:support@zulip.com).
+
+1. Our support team will contact you when the data import for your
+   Zulip Cloud organization is complete.
path: help/move-to-zulip-cloud.md
user: login: laurynmm
body: Pulled the final instruction out and added a final paragraph based on some of the content from this part of the production doc: https://zulip.readthedocs.io/en/latest/production/export-and-import.html#logging-in.
created_at: 2025-03-18T11:43:19Z
author_association: COLLABORATOR
diff_hunk: @@ -1,4 +1,12 @@
-* Simple managed solution, with no setup or maintenance
-  overhead. [Sign up](https://zulip.com/new/) with just a few clicks.
-* Always updated to the latest version of Zulip.
-* Anyone can [start with Zulip Cloud Free](https://zulip.com/new/).
+* Simple, [stable](https://status.zulip.com/) solution, managed by the core
+  team developing Zulip, with no setup or maintenance overhead for your
+  organization.
+* [Zulip's development community](https://zulip.com/development-community/)
+  is constantly at work developing new features and making improvements
+  to the product, which we role out to Zulip Cloud as soon as they are
path: help/include/advantages-of-zulip-cloud.md
user: login: karlstolley
body: This should be "roll" here
created_at: 2025-03-18T17:10:55Z
author_association: CONTRIBUTOR
diff_hunk: @@ -0,0 +1,112 @@
+# Move to Zulip Cloud from self-hosting
+
+With Zulip's high quality import and export tools, you can always
+move from self-hosting your own Zulip server to using our Zulip
+Cloud service (and back).
+
+## Advantages of Zulip Cloud
+
+{!advantages-of-zulip-cloud.md!}
+
+## Process overview
+
+To move your Zulip organization from your self-hosted server to Zulip
+Cloud, you will need to take the following steps, which are described
+in more detail below:
+
+{start_tabs}
+
+1. [Coordinate with Zulip Cloud support](#coordinate-with-zulip-cloud-support).
+
+2. [Upgrade your self-hosted server](#upgrade-your-self-hosted-server).
+
+3. [Export organization data](#export-organization-data).
+
+{end_tabs}
+
+## Coordinate with Zulip Cloud support
+
+Zulip Cloud is updated as new features and other important product
+changes are completed. We highly recommend coordinating the transition
+to Zulip Cloud with our support team so that the process is smooth and
+swift for everyone.
+
+{start_tabs}
+
+1. Review the sections on upgrading your server and exporting your
+   Zulip organization data below, and create an estimated timeline for
+   when you would be able to have your Zulip organization data export
+   ready.
+
+1. [Create a new Zulip Cloud organization](https://zulip.com/new/)
+   with the subdomain you would like for your Zulip organization. Your
+   Zulip Cloud organization will be hosted at `<subdomain>.zulipchat.com`.
+
+1. Email [support@zulip.com](mailto:support@zulip.com) with the URL of
+   your new Zulip Cloud organization, and your estimated timeline for
+   generating the data export.
+
+1. Our support team will confirm if that timeline works, or coordinate
path: help/move-to-zulip-cloud.md
user: login: karlstolley
body: I think "confirm whether" here
created_at: 2025-03-18T17:13:28Z
author_association: CONTRIBUTOR
diff_hunk: @@ -0,0 +1,112 @@
+# Move to Zulip Cloud from self-hosting
+
+With Zulip's high quality import and export tools, you can always
+move from self-hosting your own Zulip server to using our Zulip
+Cloud service (and back).
+
+## Advantages of Zulip Cloud
+
+{!advantages-of-zulip-cloud.md!}
+
+## Process overview
+
+To move your Zulip organization from your self-hosted server to Zulip
+Cloud, you will need to take the following steps, which are described
+in more detail below:
+
+{start_tabs}
+
+1. [Coordinate with Zulip Cloud support](#coordinate-with-zulip-cloud-support).
+
+2. [Upgrade your self-hosted server](#upgrade-your-self-hosted-server).
+
+3. [Export organization data](#export-organization-data).
+
+{end_tabs}
+
+## Coordinate with Zulip Cloud support
+
+Zulip Cloud is updated as new features and other important product
+changes are completed. We highly recommend coordinating the transition
+to Zulip Cloud with our support team so that the process is smooth and
+swift for everyone.
+
+{start_tabs}
+
+1. Review the sections on upgrading your server and exporting your
+   Zulip organization data below, and create an estimated timeline for
+   when you would be able to have your Zulip organization data export
+   ready.
+
+1. [Create a new Zulip Cloud organization](https://zulip.com/new/)
+   with the subdomain you would like for your Zulip organization. Your
+   Zulip Cloud organization will be hosted at `<subdomain>.zulipchat.com`.
+
+1. Email [support@zulip.com](mailto:support@zulip.com) with the URL of
+   your new Zulip Cloud organization, and your estimated timeline for
+   generating the data export.
+
+1. Our support team will confirm if that timeline works, or coordinate
+   an adjusted timeline that works both for your team as well as ours.
+
+{end_tabs}
+
+## Upgrade your self-hosted server
+
+The data import process requires your self-hosted system to be using the
path: help/move-to-zulip-cloud.md
user: login: karlstolley
body: Maybe "The data-import process requires that your self-hosted system is using the same database format..."
created_at: 2025-03-18T17:14:46Z
author_association: CONTRIBUTOR
diff_hunk: @@ -0,0 +1,112 @@
+# Move to Zulip Cloud from self-hosting
+
+With Zulip's high quality import and export tools, you can always
+move from self-hosting your own Zulip server to using our Zulip
+Cloud service (and back).
+
+## Advantages of Zulip Cloud
+
+{!advantages-of-zulip-cloud.md!}
+
+## Process overview
+
+To move your Zulip organization from your self-hosted server to Zulip
+Cloud, you will need to take the following steps, which are described
+in more detail below:
+
+{start_tabs}
+
+1. [Coordinate with Zulip Cloud support](#coordinate-with-zulip-cloud-support).
+
+2. [Upgrade your self-hosted server](#upgrade-your-self-hosted-server).
+
+3. [Export organization data](#export-organization-data).
+
+{end_tabs}
+
+## Coordinate with Zulip Cloud support
+
+Zulip Cloud is updated as new features and other important product
+changes are completed. We highly recommend coordinating the transition
+to Zulip Cloud with our support team so that the process is smooth and
+swift for everyone.
+
+{start_tabs}
+
+1. Review the sections on upgrading your server and exporting your
+   Zulip organization data below, and create an estimated timeline for
+   when you would be able to have your Zulip organization data export
+   ready.
+
+1. [Create a new Zulip Cloud organization](https://zulip.com/new/)
+   with the subdomain you would like for your Zulip organization. Your
+   Zulip Cloud organization will be hosted at `<subdomain>.zulipchat.com`.
+
+1. Email [support@zulip.com](mailto:support@zulip.com) with the URL of
+   your new Zulip Cloud organization, and your estimated timeline for
+   generating the data export.
+
+1. Our support team will confirm if that timeline works, or coordinate
+   an adjusted timeline that works both for your team as well as ours.
+
+{end_tabs}
+
+## Upgrade your self-hosted server
+
+The data import process requires your self-hosted system to be using the
+same database format as Zulip Cloud, which usually requires upgrading your
+self-hosted server. Zulip Cloud runs the `zulip-cloud-current` branch plus
+some cherry-picked changes.
+
+{start_tabs}
+
+1. Check the [version your Zulip server](/help/view-zulip-version#view-zulip-server-and-web-app-version)
+   is running.
+
+1. If you are running a version lower than the latest major release,
path: help/move-to-zulip-cloud.md
user: login: karlstolley
body: Maybe "If you are running an older version than the latest major release,"
created_at: 2025-03-18T17:15:48Z
author_association: CONTRIBUTOR
diff_hunk: @@ -0,0 +1,135 @@
+# Move from self-hosting to Zulip Cloud
+
+With Zulip's high quality import and export tools, you can always
+move from self-hosting your own Zulip server to using the Zulip
+Cloud service (and back).
+
+## Process overview
+
+To move your Zulip organization from a self-hosted server to Zulip
+Cloud, you will need to take the following steps, which are described
+in more detail below:
+
+{start_tabs}
+
+1. [Plan the process and coordinate with Zulip support](#plan-the-process-and-coordinate-with-zulip-support).
+
+1. [Upgrade your self-hosted server](#upgrade-your-self-hosted-server).
+
+1. [Export organization data](#export-organization-data).
+
+1. [Decide how users will log in](#decide-how-users-will-log-in).
+
+{end_tabs}
+
+## Plan the process and coordinate with Zulip support
+
+To import your self-hosted organization into Zulip Cloud, your server will need
+to have the same database version as Zulip Cloud. Zulip Cloud is updated every
+couple of weeks, so it's important to coordinate the timing with Zulip's support
+team.
+
+{start_tabs}
+
+1. Review the process described on this page, and decide when you will be ready
+   to make the transition.
+
+1. [Create a new Zulip Cloud organization](https://zulip.com/new/)
+   with the subdomain you would like for your Zulip organization. Your
+   Zulip Cloud organization will be hosted at `<subdomain>.zulipchat.com`.
+
+1. Email [support@zulip.com](mailto:support@zulip.com) with the following information:
+      - URL of your new Zulip Cloud organization
+      - Your estimated timeline for generating a data export
+      - Any other timing considerations for the transition (e.g., time of day)
+
+Zulip's support team will coordinate with you to make the transition with
+minimal disruption for your team.
+
+{end_tabs}
+
+## Upgrade your self-hosted server
+
+You will likely need to upgrade your server to have the same database version as
+Zulip Cloud. Zulip Cloud runs the `zulip-cloud-current` branch plus some
+cherry-picked changes.
+
+{start_tabs}
+
+1. [Check](/help/view-zulip-version#view-zulip-server-and-web-app-version) your
+   Zulip server version.
+
+1. [Upgrade to the latest maintenance
+   release](https://zulip.readthedocs.io/en/stable/production/upgrade.html#upgrading-to-a-release)
+   if you are running an older version of the Zulip server.
+
+1. [Upgrade](https://zulip.readthedocs.io/en/stable/production/upgrade.html#upgrading-from-a-git-repository)
+   to the `zulip-cloud-current` branch.
path: help/move-to-zulip-cloud.md
user: login: mateuszmandera
body: should we just link to https://zulip.readthedocs.io/en/latest/production/export-and-import.html#consider-upgrading
created_at: 2025-03-19T12:28:08Z
author_association: CONTRIBUTOR
diff_hunk: @@ -0,0 +1,135 @@
+# Move from self-hosting to Zulip Cloud
+
+With Zulip's high quality import and export tools, you can always
+move from self-hosting your own Zulip server to using the Zulip
+Cloud service (and back).
+
+## Process overview
+
+To move your Zulip organization from a self-hosted server to Zulip
+Cloud, you will need to take the following steps, which are described
+in more detail below:
+
+{start_tabs}
+
+1. [Plan the process and coordinate with Zulip support](#plan-the-process-and-coordinate-with-zulip-support).
+
+1. [Upgrade your self-hosted server](#upgrade-your-self-hosted-server).
+
+1. [Export organization data](#export-organization-data).
+
+1. [Decide how users will log in](#decide-how-users-will-log-in).
+
+{end_tabs}
+
+## Plan the process and coordinate with Zulip support
+
+To import your self-hosted organization into Zulip Cloud, your server will need
+to have the same database version as Zulip Cloud. Zulip Cloud is updated every
+couple of weeks, so it's important to coordinate the timing with Zulip's support
+team.
+
+{start_tabs}
+
+1. Review the process described on this page, and decide when you will be ready
+   to make the transition.
+
+1. [Create a new Zulip Cloud organization](https://zulip.com/new/)
+   with the subdomain you would like for your Zulip organization. Your
+   Zulip Cloud organization will be hosted at `<subdomain>.zulipchat.com`.
+
+1. Email [support@zulip.com](mailto:support@zulip.com) with the following information:
+      - URL of your new Zulip Cloud organization
+      - Your estimated timeline for generating a data export
+      - Any other timing considerations for the transition (e.g., time of day)
+
+Zulip's support team will coordinate with you to make the transition with
+minimal disruption for your team.
+
+{end_tabs}
+
+## Upgrade your self-hosted server
+
+You will likely need to upgrade your server to have the same database version as
+Zulip Cloud. Zulip Cloud runs the `zulip-cloud-current` branch plus some
+cherry-picked changes.
+
+{start_tabs}
+
+1. [Check](/help/view-zulip-version#view-zulip-server-and-web-app-version) your
+   Zulip server version.
+
+1. [Upgrade to the latest maintenance
+   release](https://zulip.readthedocs.io/en/stable/production/upgrade.html#upgrading-to-a-release)
+   if you are running an older version of the Zulip server.
+
+1. [Upgrade](https://zulip.readthedocs.io/en/stable/production/upgrade.html#upgrading-from-a-git-repository)
+   to the `zulip-cloud-current` branch.
+
+{end_tabs}
+
+For additional support with upgrading from an older version of Zulip, contact
+[sales@zulip.com](mailto:sales@zulip.com) for paid support options.
+
+## Export organization data
+
+{start_tabs}
+
+1. Shut down access to your Zulip organization.
+
+1. [Follow these instructions](https://zulip.readthedocs.io/en/stable/production/export-and-import.html#data-export)
+   to export your Zulip data.
+
+1. Email your data export to [support@zulip.com](mailto:support@zulip.com). You
+   should already [have a
+   plan](#plan-the-process-and-coordinate-with-zulip-support) for when the
+   import into Zulip Cloud will take place.
+
+Zulip's support team will let you know when the data import process is complete.
+
+{end_tabs}
+
+## Decide how users will log in
+
+When user accounts are imported, users initially do not have passwords
+configured. There are a few options for how users can log in for the first time.
+
+!!! tip ""
+
+    For security reasons, passwords are never exported.
+
+### Allow users to log in with non-password authentication
+
+Users will immediately be able to log in with [authentication
+methods](/help/configure-authentication-methods) that do not require a password,
+if these authentication methods are enabled. Zulip offers a variety of
+authentication methods, including Google, GitHub, GitLab, Apple, LDAP and
path: help/move-to-zulip-cloud.md
user: login: mateuszmandera
body: we can't provide LDAP on Cloud currently, so perhaps we should drop that from the list?
created_at: 2025-03-19T12:30:02Z
author_association: CONTRIBUTOR
diff_hunk: @@ -0,0 +1,135 @@
+# Move from self-hosting to Zulip Cloud
+
+With Zulip's high quality import and export tools, you can always
+move from self-hosting your own Zulip server to using the Zulip
+Cloud service (and back).
+
+## Process overview
+
+To move your Zulip organization from a self-hosted server to Zulip
+Cloud, you will need to take the following steps, which are described
+in more detail below:
+
+{start_tabs}
+
+1. [Plan the process and coordinate with Zulip support](#plan-the-process-and-coordinate-with-zulip-support).
+
+1. [Upgrade your self-hosted server](#upgrade-your-self-hosted-server).
+
+1. [Export organization data](#export-organization-data).
+
+1. [Decide how users will log in](#decide-how-users-will-log-in).
+
+{end_tabs}
+
+## Plan the process and coordinate with Zulip support
+
+To import your self-hosted organization into Zulip Cloud, your server will need
+to have the same database version as Zulip Cloud. Zulip Cloud is updated every
path: help/move-to-zulip-cloud.md
user: login: timabbott
body: `database format` is better here -- postgres version isn't important, it's what tables exist.
created_at: 2025-03-19T18:44:10Z
author_association: MEMBER
diff_hunk: @@ -0,0 +1,135 @@
+# Move from self-hosting to Zulip Cloud
+
+With Zulip's high quality import and export tools, you can always
+move from self-hosting your own Zulip server to using the Zulip
+Cloud service (and back).
+
+## Process overview
+
+To move your Zulip organization from a self-hosted server to Zulip
+Cloud, you will need to take the following steps, which are described
+in more detail below:
+
+{start_tabs}
+
+1. [Plan the process and coordinate with Zulip support](#plan-the-process-and-coordinate-with-zulip-support).
+
+1. [Upgrade your self-hosted server](#upgrade-your-self-hosted-server).
+
+1. [Export organization data](#export-organization-data).
+
+1. [Decide how users will log in](#decide-how-users-will-log-in).
+
+{end_tabs}
+
+## Plan the process and coordinate with Zulip support
+
+To import your self-hosted organization into Zulip Cloud, your server will need
+to have the same database version as Zulip Cloud. Zulip Cloud is updated every
+couple of weeks, so it's important to coordinate the timing with Zulip's support
+team.
+
+{start_tabs}
+
+1. Review the process described on this page, and decide when you will be ready
+   to make the transition.
+
+1. [Create a new Zulip Cloud organization](https://zulip.com/new/)
+   with the subdomain you would like for your Zulip organization. Your
+   Zulip Cloud organization will be hosted at `<subdomain>.zulipchat.com`.
path: help/move-to-zulip-cloud.md
user: login: timabbott
body: This step isn't required at all; I would generally advise users to just tell us what domain they want, since it just creates extra overhead of deleting the temporary organization. 

If we want this step, I think it can say "If you'd like, you can create a temporary Zulip Cloud organization to reserve the subdomain you would like ..."? And then add something at the end like "This temporary organization will be deleted and replaced by your data import."


Also, `templates/zerver/create_realm.html` should link to this page as it does for other popular data import tools.
created_at: 2025-03-19T18:47:37Z
author_association: MEMBER
diff_hunk: @@ -0,0 +1,135 @@
+# Move from self-hosting to Zulip Cloud
+
+With Zulip's high quality import and export tools, you can always
+move from self-hosting your own Zulip server to using the Zulip
+Cloud service (and back).
+
+## Process overview
+
+To move your Zulip organization from a self-hosted server to Zulip
+Cloud, you will need to take the following steps, which are described
+in more detail below:
+
+{start_tabs}
+
+1. [Plan the process and coordinate with Zulip support](#plan-the-process-and-coordinate-with-zulip-support).
+
+1. [Upgrade your self-hosted server](#upgrade-your-self-hosted-server).
+
+1. [Export organization data](#export-organization-data).
+
+1. [Decide how users will log in](#decide-how-users-will-log-in).
+
+{end_tabs}
+
+## Plan the process and coordinate with Zulip support
+
+To import your self-hosted organization into Zulip Cloud, your server will need
+to have the same database version as Zulip Cloud. Zulip Cloud is updated every
+couple of weeks, so it's important to coordinate the timing with Zulip's support
+team.
+
+{start_tabs}
+
+1. Review the process described on this page, and decide when you will be ready
+   to make the transition.
+
+1. [Create a new Zulip Cloud organization](https://zulip.com/new/)
+   with the subdomain you would like for your Zulip organization. Your
+   Zulip Cloud organization will be hosted at `<subdomain>.zulipchat.com`.
+
+1. Email [support@zulip.com](mailto:support@zulip.com) with the following information:
+      - URL of your new Zulip Cloud organization
+      - Your estimated timeline for generating a data export
+      - Any other timing considerations for the transition (e.g., time of day)
+
+Zulip's support team will coordinate with you to make the transition with
+minimal disruption for your team.
+
+{end_tabs}
+
+## Upgrade your self-hosted server
+
+You will likely need to upgrade your server to have the same database version as
path: help/move-to-zulip-cloud.md
user: login: timabbott
body: You can drop "likely" here. It's really only like the 2% of days that are in the week just after a major release where it might not be needed.
created_at: 2025-03-19T18:50:06Z
author_association: MEMBER
diff_hunk: @@ -0,0 +1,135 @@
+# Move from self-hosting to Zulip Cloud
+
+With Zulip's high quality import and export tools, you can always
+move from self-hosting your own Zulip server to using the Zulip
+Cloud service (and back).
+
+## Process overview
+
+To move your Zulip organization from a self-hosted server to Zulip
+Cloud, you will need to take the following steps, which are described
+in more detail below:
+
+{start_tabs}
+
+1. [Plan the process and coordinate with Zulip support](#plan-the-process-and-coordinate-with-zulip-support).
+
+1. [Upgrade your self-hosted server](#upgrade-your-self-hosted-server).
+
+1. [Export organization data](#export-organization-data).
+
+1. [Decide how users will log in](#decide-how-users-will-log-in).
+
+{end_tabs}
+
+## Plan the process and coordinate with Zulip support
+
+To import your self-hosted organization into Zulip Cloud, your server will need
+to have the same database version as Zulip Cloud. Zulip Cloud is updated every
+couple of weeks, so it's important to coordinate the timing with Zulip's support
+team.
+
+{start_tabs}
+
+1. Review the process described on this page, and decide when you will be ready
+   to make the transition.
+
+1. [Create a new Zulip Cloud organization](https://zulip.com/new/)
+   with the subdomain you would like for your Zulip organization. Your
+   Zulip Cloud organization will be hosted at `<subdomain>.zulipchat.com`.
+
+1. Email [support@zulip.com](mailto:support@zulip.com) with the following information:
+      - URL of your new Zulip Cloud organization
+      - Your estimated timeline for generating a data export
+      - Any other timing considerations for the transition (e.g., time of day)
+
+Zulip's support team will coordinate with you to make the transition with
+minimal disruption for your team.
+
+{end_tabs}
+
+## Upgrade your self-hosted server
+
+You will likely need to upgrade your server to have the same database version as
+Zulip Cloud. Zulip Cloud runs the `zulip-cloud-current` branch plus some
+cherry-picked changes.
+
+{start_tabs}
+
+1. [Check](/help/view-zulip-version#view-zulip-server-and-web-app-version) your
+   Zulip server version.
+
+1. [Upgrade to the latest maintenance
+   release](https://zulip.readthedocs.io/en/stable/production/upgrade.html#upgrading-to-a-release)
+   if you are running an older version of the Zulip server.
+
+1. [Upgrade](https://zulip.readthedocs.io/en/stable/production/upgrade.html#upgrading-from-a-git-repository)
+   to the `zulip-cloud-current` branch.
path: help/move-to-zulip-cloud.md
user: login: timabbott
body: I think it's better to just have the steps here, rather than sending them to the less detailed doc.
created_at: 2025-03-19T18:50:57Z
author_association: MEMBER
diff_hunk: @@ -0,0 +1,135 @@
+# Move from self-hosting to Zulip Cloud
+
+With Zulip's high quality import and export tools, you can always
+move from self-hosting your own Zulip server to using the Zulip
+Cloud service (and back).
+
+## Process overview
+
+To move your Zulip organization from a self-hosted server to Zulip
+Cloud, you will need to take the following steps, which are described
+in more detail below:
+
+{start_tabs}
+
+1. [Plan the process and coordinate with Zulip support](#plan-the-process-and-coordinate-with-zulip-support).
+
+1. [Upgrade your self-hosted server](#upgrade-your-self-hosted-server).
+
+1. [Export organization data](#export-organization-data).
+
+1. [Decide how users will log in](#decide-how-users-will-log-in).
+
+{end_tabs}
+
+## Plan the process and coordinate with Zulip support
+
+To import your self-hosted organization into Zulip Cloud, your server will need
+to have the same database version as Zulip Cloud. Zulip Cloud is updated every
+couple of weeks, so it's important to coordinate the timing with Zulip's support
+team.
+
+{start_tabs}
+
+1. Review the process described on this page, and decide when you will be ready
+   to make the transition.
+
+1. [Create a new Zulip Cloud organization](https://zulip.com/new/)
+   with the subdomain you would like for your Zulip organization. Your
+   Zulip Cloud organization will be hosted at `<subdomain>.zulipchat.com`.
+
+1. Email [support@zulip.com](mailto:support@zulip.com) with the following information:
+      - URL of your new Zulip Cloud organization
+      - Your estimated timeline for generating a data export
+      - Any other timing considerations for the transition (e.g., time of day)
path: help/move-to-zulip-cloud.md
user: login: timabbott
body: Probably can add here:
- If you're planning to purchase the Plus plan, details on the features that you plan to use so that we can make sure they are configured for your organization as part of the import process.
created_at: 2025-03-19T18:55:29Z
author_association: MEMBER
diff_hunk: @@ -0,0 +1,135 @@
+# Move from self-hosting to Zulip Cloud
+
+With Zulip's high quality import and export tools, you can always
+move from self-hosting your own Zulip server to using the Zulip
+Cloud service (and back).
+
+## Process overview
+
+To move your Zulip organization from a self-hosted server to Zulip
+Cloud, you will need to take the following steps, which are described
+in more detail below:
+
+{start_tabs}
+
+1. [Plan the process and coordinate with Zulip support](#plan-the-process-and-coordinate-with-zulip-support).
+
+1. [Upgrade your self-hosted server](#upgrade-your-self-hosted-server).
+
+1. [Export organization data](#export-organization-data).
+
+1. [Decide how users will log in](#decide-how-users-will-log-in).
+
+{end_tabs}
+
+## Plan the process and coordinate with Zulip support
+
+To import your self-hosted organization into Zulip Cloud, your server will need
+to have the same database version as Zulip Cloud. Zulip Cloud is updated every
+couple of weeks, so it's important to coordinate the timing with Zulip's support
+team.
+
+{start_tabs}
+
+1. Review the process described on this page, and decide when you will be ready
+   to make the transition.
+
+1. [Create a new Zulip Cloud organization](https://zulip.com/new/)
+   with the subdomain you would like for your Zulip organization. Your
+   Zulip Cloud organization will be hosted at `<subdomain>.zulipchat.com`.
+
+1. Email [support@zulip.com](mailto:support@zulip.com) with the following information:
+      - URL of your new Zulip Cloud organization
+      - Your estimated timeline for generating a data export
+      - Any other timing considerations for the transition (e.g., time of day)
+
+Zulip's support team will coordinate with you to make the transition with
+minimal disruption for your team.
+
+{end_tabs}
+
+## Upgrade your self-hosted server
+
+You will likely need to upgrade your server to have the same database version as
+Zulip Cloud. Zulip Cloud runs the `zulip-cloud-current` branch plus some
+cherry-picked changes.
+
+{start_tabs}
+
+1. [Check](/help/view-zulip-version#view-zulip-server-and-web-app-version) your
+   Zulip server version.
+
+1. [Upgrade to the latest maintenance
+   release](https://zulip.readthedocs.io/en/stable/production/upgrade.html#upgrading-to-a-release)
+   if you are running an older version of the Zulip server.
+
+1. [Upgrade](https://zulip.readthedocs.io/en/stable/production/upgrade.html#upgrading-from-a-git-repository)
+   to the `zulip-cloud-current` branch.
+
+{end_tabs}
+
+For additional support with upgrading from an older version of Zulip, contact
+[sales@zulip.com](mailto:sales@zulip.com) for paid support options.
+
+## Export organization data
+
+{start_tabs}
+
+1. Shut down access to your Zulip organization.
path: help/move-to-zulip-cloud.md
user: login: timabbott
body: We have that already in https://zulip.readthedocs.io/en/stable/production/export-and-import.html#preventing-changes-during-the-export, which is linked in the next section. I think maybe "announce the migration and scheduled downtime for your Zulip server to your team" would be a better fit here.
created_at: 2025-03-19T18:58:24Z
author_association: MEMBER
diff_hunk: @@ -0,0 +1,135 @@
+# Move from self-hosting to Zulip Cloud
+
+With Zulip's high quality import and export tools, you can always
+move from self-hosting your own Zulip server to using the Zulip
+Cloud service (and back).
+
+## Process overview
+
+To move your Zulip organization from a self-hosted server to Zulip
+Cloud, you will need to take the following steps, which are described
+in more detail below:
+
+{start_tabs}
+
+1. [Plan the process and coordinate with Zulip support](#plan-the-process-and-coordinate-with-zulip-support).
+
+1. [Upgrade your self-hosted server](#upgrade-your-self-hosted-server).
+
+1. [Export organization data](#export-organization-data).
+
+1. [Decide how users will log in](#decide-how-users-will-log-in).
+
+{end_tabs}
+
+## Plan the process and coordinate with Zulip support
+
+To import your self-hosted organization into Zulip Cloud, your server will need
+to have the same database version as Zulip Cloud. Zulip Cloud is updated every
+couple of weeks, so it's important to coordinate the timing with Zulip's support
+team.
+
+{start_tabs}
+
+1. Review the process described on this page, and decide when you will be ready
+   to make the transition.
+
+1. [Create a new Zulip Cloud organization](https://zulip.com/new/)
+   with the subdomain you would like for your Zulip organization. Your
+   Zulip Cloud organization will be hosted at `<subdomain>.zulipchat.com`.
+
+1. Email [support@zulip.com](mailto:support@zulip.com) with the following information:
+      - URL of your new Zulip Cloud organization
+      - Your estimated timeline for generating a data export
+      - Any other timing considerations for the transition (e.g., time of day)
+
+Zulip's support team will coordinate with you to make the transition with
+minimal disruption for your team.
+
+{end_tabs}
+
+## Upgrade your self-hosted server
+
+You will likely need to upgrade your server to have the same database version as
+Zulip Cloud. Zulip Cloud runs the `zulip-cloud-current` branch plus some
+cherry-picked changes.
+
+{start_tabs}
+
+1. [Check](/help/view-zulip-version#view-zulip-server-and-web-app-version) your
+   Zulip server version.
+
+1. [Upgrade to the latest maintenance
+   release](https://zulip.readthedocs.io/en/stable/production/upgrade.html#upgrading-to-a-release)
+   if you are running an older version of the Zulip server.
+
+1. [Upgrade](https://zulip.readthedocs.io/en/stable/production/upgrade.html#upgrading-from-a-git-repository)
+   to the `zulip-cloud-current` branch.
+
+{end_tabs}
+
+For additional support with upgrading from an older version of Zulip, contact
+[sales@zulip.com](mailto:sales@zulip.com) for paid support options.
+
+## Export organization data
+
+{start_tabs}
+
+1. Shut down access to your Zulip organization.
+
+1. [Follow these instructions](https://zulip.readthedocs.io/en/stable/production/export-and-import.html#data-export)
+   to export your Zulip data.
+
+1. Email your data export to [support@zulip.com](mailto:support@zulip.com). You
+   should already [have a
+   plan](#plan-the-process-and-coordinate-with-zulip-support) for when the
+   import into Zulip Cloud will take place.
+
+Zulip's support team will let you know when the data import process is complete.
+
+{end_tabs}
+
+## Decide how users will log in
+
+When user accounts are imported, users initially do not have passwords
+configured. There are a few options for how users can log in for the first time.
+
+!!! tip ""
+
+    For security reasons, passwords are never exported.
+
+### Allow users to log in with non-password authentication
+
+Users will immediately be able to log in with [authentication
+methods](/help/configure-authentication-methods) that do not require a password,
+if these authentication methods are enabled. Zulip offers a variety of
+authentication methods, including Google, GitHub, GitLab, Apple, LDAP and
path: help/move-to-zulip-cloud.md
user: login: timabbott
body: Yeah, maybe this last sentence could be of the form "By default, Zulip Cloud enables a variety of authentication methods, including Google, GitHub, GitLab, and Apple authentication" just listing the ones that are enabled in Cloud without talking to us.

Could also just not list any. I posted https://github.com/zulip/zulip/pull/34043/files#r2004049637 to address SAML and the like on this page in the right location. 
created_at: 2025-03-19T19:02:05Z
author_association: MEMBER
diff_hunk: @@ -0,0 +1,135 @@
+# Move from self-hosting to Zulip Cloud
+
+With Zulip's high quality import and export tools, you can always
+move from self-hosting your own Zulip server to using the Zulip
+Cloud service (and back).
+
+## Process overview
+
+To move your Zulip organization from a self-hosted server to Zulip
+Cloud, you will need to take the following steps, which are described
+in more detail below:
+
+{start_tabs}
+
+1. [Plan the process and coordinate with Zulip support](#plan-the-process-and-coordinate-with-zulip-support).
+
+1. [Upgrade your self-hosted server](#upgrade-your-self-hosted-server).
+
+1. [Export organization data](#export-organization-data).
+
+1. [Decide how users will log in](#decide-how-users-will-log-in).
+
+{end_tabs}
+
+## Plan the process and coordinate with Zulip support
+
+To import your self-hosted organization into Zulip Cloud, your server will need
+to have the same database version as Zulip Cloud. Zulip Cloud is updated every
+couple of weeks, so it's important to coordinate the timing with Zulip's support
+team.
+
+{start_tabs}
+
+1. Review the process described on this page, and decide when you will be ready
+   to make the transition.
+
+1. [Create a new Zulip Cloud organization](https://zulip.com/new/)
+   with the subdomain you would like for your Zulip organization. Your
+   Zulip Cloud organization will be hosted at `<subdomain>.zulipchat.com`.
+
+1. Email [support@zulip.com](mailto:support@zulip.com) with the following information:
+      - URL of your new Zulip Cloud organization
+      - Your estimated timeline for generating a data export
+      - Any other timing considerations for the transition (e.g., time of day)
+
+Zulip's support team will coordinate with you to make the transition with
+minimal disruption for your team.
+
+{end_tabs}
+
+## Upgrade your self-hosted server
+
+You will likely need to upgrade your server to have the same database version as
+Zulip Cloud. Zulip Cloud runs the `zulip-cloud-current` branch plus some
+cherry-picked changes.
+
+{start_tabs}
+
+1. [Check](/help/view-zulip-version#view-zulip-server-and-web-app-version) your
+   Zulip server version.
+
+1. [Upgrade to the latest maintenance
+   release](https://zulip.readthedocs.io/en/stable/production/upgrade.html#upgrading-to-a-release)
+   if you are running an older version of the Zulip server.
+
+1. [Upgrade](https://zulip.readthedocs.io/en/stable/production/upgrade.html#upgrading-from-a-git-repository)
+   to the `zulip-cloud-current` branch.
+
+{end_tabs}
+
+For additional support with upgrading from an older version of Zulip, contact
+[sales@zulip.com](mailto:sales@zulip.com) for paid support options.
+
+## Export organization data
+
+{start_tabs}
+
+1. Shut down access to your Zulip organization.
path: help/move-to-zulip-cloud.md
user: login: alya
body: OK. I had not idea what this part was about. :)
created_at: 2025-03-19T20:37:52Z
author_association: CONTRIBUTOR
diff_hunk: @@ -0,0 +1,135 @@
+# Move from self-hosting to Zulip Cloud
+
+With Zulip's high quality import and export tools, you can always
+move from self-hosting your own Zulip server to using the Zulip
+Cloud service (and back).
+
+## Process overview
+
+To move your Zulip organization from a self-hosted server to Zulip
+Cloud, you will need to take the following steps, which are described
+in more detail below:
+
+{start_tabs}
+
+1. [Plan the process and coordinate with Zulip support](#plan-the-process-and-coordinate-with-zulip-support).
+
+1. [Upgrade your self-hosted server](#upgrade-your-self-hosted-server).
+
+1. [Export organization data](#export-organization-data).
+
+1. [Decide how users will log in](#decide-how-users-will-log-in).
+
+{end_tabs}
+
+## Plan the process and coordinate with Zulip support
+
+To import your self-hosted organization into Zulip Cloud, your server will need
+to have the same database version as Zulip Cloud. Zulip Cloud is updated every
+couple of weeks, so it's important to coordinate the timing with Zulip's support
+team.
+
+{start_tabs}
+
+1. Review the process described on this page, and decide when you will be ready
+   to make the transition.
+
+1. [Create a new Zulip Cloud organization](https://zulip.com/new/)
+   with the subdomain you would like for your Zulip organization. Your
+   Zulip Cloud organization will be hosted at `<subdomain>.zulipchat.com`.
+
+1. Email [support@zulip.com](mailto:support@zulip.com) with the following information:
+      - URL of your new Zulip Cloud organization
+      - Your estimated timeline for generating a data export
+      - Any other timing considerations for the transition (e.g., time of day)
+
+Zulip's support team will coordinate with you to make the transition with
+minimal disruption for your team.
+
+{end_tabs}
+
+## Upgrade your self-hosted server
+
+You will likely need to upgrade your server to have the same database version as
+Zulip Cloud. Zulip Cloud runs the `zulip-cloud-current` branch plus some
+cherry-picked changes.
+
+{start_tabs}
+
+1. [Check](/help/view-zulip-version#view-zulip-server-and-web-app-version) your
+   Zulip server version.
+
+1. [Upgrade to the latest maintenance
+   release](https://zulip.readthedocs.io/en/stable/production/upgrade.html#upgrading-to-a-release)
+   if you are running an older version of the Zulip server.
+
+1. [Upgrade](https://zulip.readthedocs.io/en/stable/production/upgrade.html#upgrading-from-a-git-repository)
+   to the `zulip-cloud-current` branch.
+
+{end_tabs}
+
+For additional support with upgrading from an older version of Zulip, contact
+[sales@zulip.com](mailto:sales@zulip.com) for paid support options.
+
+## Export organization data
+
+{start_tabs}
+
+1. Shut down access to your Zulip organization.
path: help/move-to-zulip-cloud.md
user: login: alya
body: Forgot to comment that we should explain what you need to do, but cutting / replacing sounds fine given that.

created_at: 2025-03-19T20:38:48Z
author_association: CONTRIBUTOR
diff_hunk: @@ -0,0 +1,135 @@
+# Move from self-hosting to Zulip Cloud
+
+With Zulip's high quality import and export tools, you can always
+move from self-hosting your own Zulip server to using the Zulip
+Cloud service (and back).
+
+## Process overview
+
+To move your Zulip organization from a self-hosted server to Zulip
+Cloud, you will need to take the following steps, which are described
+in more detail below:
+
+{start_tabs}
+
+1. [Plan the process and coordinate with Zulip support](#plan-the-process-and-coordinate-with-zulip-support).
+
+1. [Upgrade your self-hosted server](#upgrade-your-self-hosted-server).
+
+1. [Export organization data](#export-organization-data).
+
+1. [Decide how users will log in](#decide-how-users-will-log-in).
+
+{end_tabs}
+
+## Plan the process and coordinate with Zulip support
+
+To import your self-hosted organization into Zulip Cloud, your server will need
+to have the same database version as Zulip Cloud. Zulip Cloud is updated every
+couple of weeks, so it's important to coordinate the timing with Zulip's support
+team.
+
+{start_tabs}
+
+1. Review the process described on this page, and decide when you will be ready
+   to make the transition.
+
+1. [Create a new Zulip Cloud organization](https://zulip.com/new/)
+   with the subdomain you would like for your Zulip organization. Your
+   Zulip Cloud organization will be hosted at `<subdomain>.zulipchat.com`.
+
+1. Email [support@zulip.com](mailto:support@zulip.com) with the following information:
+      - URL of your new Zulip Cloud organization
+      - Your estimated timeline for generating a data export
+      - Any other timing considerations for the transition (e.g., time of day)
+
+Zulip's support team will coordinate with you to make the transition with
+minimal disruption for your team.
+
+{end_tabs}
+
+## Upgrade your self-hosted server
+
+You will likely need to upgrade your server to have the same database version as
+Zulip Cloud. Zulip Cloud runs the `zulip-cloud-current` branch plus some
+cherry-picked changes.
+
+{start_tabs}
+
+1. [Check](/help/view-zulip-version#view-zulip-server-and-web-app-version) your
+   Zulip server version.
+
+1. [Upgrade to the latest maintenance
+   release](https://zulip.readthedocs.io/en/stable/production/upgrade.html#upgrading-to-a-release)
+   if you are running an older version of the Zulip server.
+
+1. [Upgrade](https://zulip.readthedocs.io/en/stable/production/upgrade.html#upgrading-from-a-git-repository)
+   to the `zulip-cloud-current` branch.
path: help/move-to-zulip-cloud.md
user: login: alya
body: So this is a no change required, right?
created_at: 2025-03-19T20:40:12Z
author_association: CONTRIBUTOR
diff_hunk: @@ -0,0 +1,135 @@
+# Move from self-hosting to Zulip Cloud
+
+With Zulip's high quality import and export tools, you can always
+move from self-hosting your own Zulip server to using the Zulip
+Cloud service (and back).
+
+## Process overview
+
+To move your Zulip organization from a self-hosted server to Zulip
+Cloud, you will need to take the following steps, which are described
+in more detail below:
+
+{start_tabs}
+
+1. [Plan the process and coordinate with Zulip support](#plan-the-process-and-coordinate-with-zulip-support).
+
+1. [Upgrade your self-hosted server](#upgrade-your-self-hosted-server).
+
+1. [Export organization data](#export-organization-data).
+
+1. [Decide how users will log in](#decide-how-users-will-log-in).
+
+{end_tabs}
+
+## Plan the process and coordinate with Zulip support
+
+To import your self-hosted organization into Zulip Cloud, your server will need
+to have the same database version as Zulip Cloud. Zulip Cloud is updated every
+couple of weeks, so it's important to coordinate the timing with Zulip's support
+team.
+
+{start_tabs}
+
+1. Review the process described on this page, and decide when you will be ready
+   to make the transition.
+
+1. [Create a new Zulip Cloud organization](https://zulip.com/new/)
+   with the subdomain you would like for your Zulip organization. Your
+   Zulip Cloud organization will be hosted at `<subdomain>.zulipchat.com`.
+
+1. Email [support@zulip.com](mailto:support@zulip.com) with the following information:
+      - URL of your new Zulip Cloud organization
+      - Your estimated timeline for generating a data export
+      - Any other timing considerations for the transition (e.g., time of day)
+
+Zulip's support team will coordinate with you to make the transition with
+minimal disruption for your team.
+
+{end_tabs}
+
+## Upgrade your self-hosted server
+
+You will likely need to upgrade your server to have the same database version as
+Zulip Cloud. Zulip Cloud runs the `zulip-cloud-current` branch plus some
+cherry-picked changes.
+
+{start_tabs}
+
+1. [Check](/help/view-zulip-version#view-zulip-server-and-web-app-version) your
+   Zulip server version.
+
+1. [Upgrade to the latest maintenance
+   release](https://zulip.readthedocs.io/en/stable/production/upgrade.html#upgrading-to-a-release)
+   if you are running an older version of the Zulip server.
+
+1. [Upgrade](https://zulip.readthedocs.io/en/stable/production/upgrade.html#upgrading-from-a-git-repository)
+   to the `zulip-cloud-current` branch.
+
+{end_tabs}
+
+For additional support with upgrading from an older version of Zulip, contact
+[sales@zulip.com](mailto:sales@zulip.com) for paid support options.
+
+## Export organization data
+
+{start_tabs}
+
+1. Shut down access to your Zulip organization.
+
+1. [Follow these instructions](https://zulip.readthedocs.io/en/stable/production/export-and-import.html#data-export)
+   to export your Zulip data.
+
+1. Email your data export to [support@zulip.com](mailto:support@zulip.com). You
+   should already [have a
+   plan](#plan-the-process-and-coordinate-with-zulip-support) for when the
+   import into Zulip Cloud will take place.
+
+Zulip's support team will let you know when the data import process is complete.
+
+{end_tabs}
+
+## Decide how users will log in
+
+When user accounts are imported, users initially do not have passwords
+configured. There are a few options for how users can log in for the first time.
+
+!!! tip ""
+
+    For security reasons, passwords are never exported.
+
+### Allow users to log in with non-password authentication
+
+Users will immediately be able to log in with [authentication
+methods](/help/configure-authentication-methods) that do not require a password,
+if these authentication methods are enabled. Zulip offers a variety of
+authentication methods, including Google, GitHub, GitLab, Apple, LDAP and
path: help/move-to-zulip-cloud.md
user: login: alya
body: Cutting + adding a link in the prior sentence is good.
created_at: 2025-03-19T20:44:47Z
author_association: CONTRIBUTOR
diff_hunk: @@ -0,0 +1,135 @@
+# Move from self-hosting to Zulip Cloud
+
+With Zulip's high quality import and export tools, you can always
+move from self-hosting your own Zulip server to using the Zulip
+Cloud service (and back).
+
+## Process overview
+
+To move your Zulip organization from a self-hosted server to Zulip
+Cloud, you will need to take the following steps, which are described
+in more detail below:
+
+{start_tabs}
+
+1. [Plan the process and coordinate with Zulip support](#plan-the-process-and-coordinate-with-zulip-support).
+
+1. [Upgrade your self-hosted server](#upgrade-your-self-hosted-server).
+
+1. [Export organization data](#export-organization-data).
+
+1. [Decide how users will log in](#decide-how-users-will-log-in).
+
+{end_tabs}
+
+## Plan the process and coordinate with Zulip support
+
+To import your self-hosted organization into Zulip Cloud, your server will need
+to have the same database version as Zulip Cloud. Zulip Cloud is updated every
+couple of weeks, so it's important to coordinate the timing with Zulip's support
+team.
+
+{start_tabs}
+
+1. Review the process described on this page, and decide when you will be ready
+   to make the transition.
+
+1. [Create a new Zulip Cloud organization](https://zulip.com/new/)
+   with the subdomain you would like for your Zulip organization. Your
+   Zulip Cloud organization will be hosted at `<subdomain>.zulipchat.com`.
path: help/move-to-zulip-cloud.md
user: login: alya
body: If they don't need to, then we should just tell them to tell us what domain they want.
created_at: 2025-03-19T20:45:39Z
author_association: CONTRIBUTOR
diff_hunk: @@ -0,0 +1,135 @@
+# Move from self-hosting to Zulip Cloud
+
+With Zulip's high quality import and export tools, you can always
+move from self-hosting your own Zulip server to using the Zulip
+Cloud service (and back).
+
+## Process overview
+
+To move your Zulip organization from a self-hosted server to Zulip
+Cloud, you will need to take the following steps, which are described
+in more detail below:
+
+{start_tabs}
+
+1. [Plan the process and coordinate with Zulip support](#plan-the-process-and-coordinate-with-zulip-support).
+
+1. [Upgrade your self-hosted server](#upgrade-your-self-hosted-server).
+
+1. [Export organization data](#export-organization-data).
+
+1. [Decide how users will log in](#decide-how-users-will-log-in).
+
+{end_tabs}
+
+## Plan the process and coordinate with Zulip support
+
+To import your self-hosted organization into Zulip Cloud, your server will need
+to have the same database version as Zulip Cloud. Zulip Cloud is updated every
+couple of weeks, so it's important to coordinate the timing with Zulip's support
+team.
+
+{start_tabs}
+
+1. Review the process described on this page, and decide when you will be ready
+   to make the transition.
+
+1. [Create a new Zulip Cloud organization](https://zulip.com/new/)
+   with the subdomain you would like for your Zulip organization. Your
+   Zulip Cloud organization will be hosted at `<subdomain>.zulipchat.com`.
path: help/move-to-zulip-cloud.md
user: login: alya
body: > Also, templates/zerver/create_realm.html should link to this page as it does for other popular data import tools.

I assume someone else is taking care of this.

created_at: 2025-03-19T20:49:27Z
author_association: CONTRIBUTOR
diff_hunk: @@ -0,0 +1,135 @@
+# Move from self-hosting to Zulip Cloud
+
+With Zulip's high quality import and export tools, you can always
+move from self-hosting your own Zulip server to using the Zulip
+Cloud service (and back).
+
+## Process overview
+
+To move your Zulip organization from a self-hosted server to Zulip
+Cloud, you will need to take the following steps, which are described
+in more detail below:
+
+{start_tabs}
+
+1. [Plan the process and coordinate with Zulip support](#plan-the-process-and-coordinate-with-zulip-support).
+
+1. [Upgrade your self-hosted server](#upgrade-your-self-hosted-server).
+
+1. [Export organization data](#export-organization-data).
+
+1. [Decide how users will log in](#decide-how-users-will-log-in).
+
+{end_tabs}
+
+## Plan the process and coordinate with Zulip support
+
+To import your self-hosted organization into Zulip Cloud, your server will need
+to have the same database version as Zulip Cloud. Zulip Cloud is updated every
+couple of weeks, so it's important to coordinate the timing with Zulip's support
+team.
+
+{start_tabs}
+
+1. Review the process described on this page, and decide when you will be ready
+   to make the transition.
+
+1. [Create a new Zulip Cloud organization](https://zulip.com/new/)
+   with the subdomain you would like for your Zulip organization. Your
+   Zulip Cloud organization will be hosted at `<subdomain>.zulipchat.com`.
+
+1. Email [support@zulip.com](mailto:support@zulip.com) with the following information:
+      - URL of your new Zulip Cloud organization
+      - Your estimated timeline for generating a data export
+      - Any other timing considerations for the transition (e.g., time of day)
path: help/move-to-zulip-cloud.md
user: login: alya
body: Wrote:

> If you're planning to purchase the [Zulip Cloud Plus plan](https://zulip.com/plans), details on the Plus plan features (e.g., authentication methods) you intend to use. These features will be configured for your organization as part of the import process.
created_at: 2025-03-19T20:56:55Z
author_association: CONTRIBUTOR
diff_hunk: @@ -0,0 +1,135 @@
+# Move from self-hosting to Zulip Cloud
+
+With Zulip's high quality import and export tools, you can always
+move from self-hosting your own Zulip server to using the Zulip
+Cloud service (and back).
+
+## Process overview
+
+To move your Zulip organization from a self-hosted server to Zulip
+Cloud, you will need to take the following steps, which are described
+in more detail below:
+
+{start_tabs}
+
+1. [Plan the process and coordinate with Zulip support](#plan-the-process-and-coordinate-with-zulip-support).
+
+1. [Upgrade your self-hosted server](#upgrade-your-self-hosted-server).
+
+1. [Export organization data](#export-organization-data).
+
+1. [Decide how users will log in](#decide-how-users-will-log-in).
+
+{end_tabs}
+
+## Plan the process and coordinate with Zulip support
+
+To import your self-hosted organization into Zulip Cloud, your server will need
+to have the same database version as Zulip Cloud. Zulip Cloud is updated every
+couple of weeks, so it's important to coordinate the timing with Zulip's support
+team.
+
+{start_tabs}
+
+1. Review the process described on this page, and decide when you will be ready
+   to make the transition.
+
+1. [Create a new Zulip Cloud organization](https://zulip.com/new/)
+   with the subdomain you would like for your Zulip organization. Your
+   Zulip Cloud organization will be hosted at `<subdomain>.zulipchat.com`.
+
+1. Email [support@zulip.com](mailto:support@zulip.com) with the following information:
+      - URL of your new Zulip Cloud organization
+      - Your estimated timeline for generating a data export
+      - Any other timing considerations for the transition (e.g., time of day)
+
+Zulip's support team will coordinate with you to make the transition with
+minimal disruption for your team.
+
+{end_tabs}
+
+## Upgrade your self-hosted server
+
+You will likely need to upgrade your server to have the same database version as
+Zulip Cloud. Zulip Cloud runs the `zulip-cloud-current` branch plus some
+cherry-picked changes.
+
+{start_tabs}
+
+1. [Check](/help/view-zulip-version#view-zulip-server-and-web-app-version) your
+   Zulip server version.
+
+1. [Upgrade to the latest maintenance
+   release](https://zulip.readthedocs.io/en/stable/production/upgrade.html#upgrading-to-a-release)
+   if you are running an older version of the Zulip server.
+
+1. [Upgrade](https://zulip.readthedocs.io/en/stable/production/upgrade.html#upgrading-from-a-git-repository)
+   to the `zulip-cloud-current` branch.
path: help/move-to-zulip-cloud.md
user: login: timabbott
body: Yes.
created_at: 2025-03-20T00:01:42Z
author_association: MEMBER

PR comments:
user: login: zulipbot
created_at: 2025-03-17T20:48:08Z
body: Hello @zulip/server-user-docs members, this pull request was labeled with the "area: documentation (user)" label, so you may want to check it out!

<!-- areaLabelAddition -->

author_association: MEMBER
user: login: laurynmm
created_at: 2025-03-18T11:39:58Z
body: **Updates**:
- Updated for @timabbott's feedback above. Screenshots of new article have been updated above.
author_association: COLLABORATOR
user: login: alya
created_at: 2025-03-18T18:30:20Z
body: I pushed my changes. @timabbott let me know if you need screenshots.

Note that that the "Decide how users will log in" section I put in is just a pared down version of what we have for imports from other products.
author_association: CONTRIBUTOR
user: login: alya
created_at: 2025-03-18T21:38:35Z
body: We'll need to link to the new page from production docs and from landing pages (where they currently link to just import/export tools in the context of this migration).
author_association: CONTRIBUTOR