Import Illustrator graphics

Last updated on Jun 2, 2026

Learn how to place Illustrator files in Adobe InDesign while preserving layers and editability.

Import Adobe Illustrator graphics in InDesign using the Place command to add .ai files as linked assets. This preserves layers and maintains a connection to the original file. For direct object editing in InDesign, the artwork can also be copied and pasted from Illustrator.

Import a linked Illustrator graphic

Select File > Place.

Select the Illustrator file.

Select Show Import Options to control which artboard or layers to import.

Select Open to load the graphic into the cursor.

Select in the document to place the graphic or drag to create a frame.

Work with multiple artboards

Select File > Place.

Choose the Illustrator file, then select Show Import Options.

Use the preview area to select the artboard to import.

Select OK, then select or drag the graphic into place.

Control layer visibility

Select File > Place to place the Illustrator graphic.

Select the placed graphic using the Selection tool.

Select Object > Object Layer Options.

Select or deselect the view icon for each layer to control visibility.

Select OK.

Scale and fit a placed graphic

Select the placed graphic using the Selection tool.

Drag a corner handle to resize the frame, or hold Shift while dragging to maintain proportions.

Select Object > Fitting, then choose a fitting option.

Update or relink a placed Illustrator graphic

Select Window > Links.

Select the placed Illustrator file.

Select Update Link icon to update the graphic if the source file has changed, or select Relink icon to choose a different file.

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Import options for image formats

Use Adobe Stock images

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