In this guide, we’ll explore the steps, tools, and best practices for migrating your projects to GitLab. Whether you’re moving from GitHub, Bitbucket, or another platform, these strategies will help you achieve a smooth transition.

Why Migrate to GitLab?

GitLab offers an integrated platform for source code management, CI/CD, issue tracking, and more. Key benefits include:

  • Unified Toolchain: Manage code, pipelines, and collaboration in one platform.
  • Built-In CI/CD: Automate your build, test, and deployment processes seamlessly.
  • Robust Security: Leverage integrated security tools like SAST and DAST.
  • Scalability: Adaptable to teams of any size, from small projects to enterprise applications.

Step 1: Preparing for Migration

Before starting the migration process, prepare your projects to minimize risks and ensure a smooth transition.

Checklist:

  • Audit Current Projects: Identify repositories, issues, pipelines, and configurations to migrate.
  • Back Up Data: Create backups of your existing repositories and related data.
  • Define Access Levels: Plan roles and permissions for users in GitLab.
  • Notify Stakeholders: Inform your team about the migration timeline and expected changes.

Step 2: Migrating Repositories

GitLab provides tools to migrate repositories from platforms like GitHub and Bitbucket.

Importing a Repository:

  1. Navigate to your GitLab instance and create a new project.
  2. Select Import project.
  3. Choose the source platform (e.g., GitHub, Bitbucket).
  4. Authenticate with the source platform and select the repository to import.
  5. Review and complete the import process.

Manual Migration:

If automated tools are not available, use the following steps to migrate manually:

# Clone the repository from the source platform
git clone https://source-platform.com/your-repo.git

# Add GitLab as a new remote
git remote add gitlab https://gitlab.com/your-repo.git

# Push all branches and tags to GitLab
git push --all gitlab
git push --tags gitlab

Step 3: Migrating Issues and Boards

GitLab supports issue imports to retain your backlog, feature requests, and bugs.

Importing Issues:

  1. Navigate to your GitLab project and select Settings > General > Import/Export.
  2. Choose Issues and upload your exported issue data from the source platform.
  3. Map fields like titles, descriptions, and labels to GitLab’s format.

For platforms without direct integration, consider exporting issues as CSV or JSON and using GitLab’s API to import them programmatically.

Example: Using GitLab’s API to Import Issues:

import requests

gitlab_url = "https://gitlab.com/api/v4/projects//issues"
headers = {"Private-Token": "your_access_token"}

issue_data = {
    "title": "Imported Issue",
    "description": "This issue was imported from the old platform.",
    "labels": ["migration"]
}

response = requests.post(gitlab_url, headers=headers, json=issue_data)

if response.status_code == 201:
    print("Issue imported successfully.")
else:
    print(f"Failed to import issue: {response.status_code}")

Step 4: Setting Up CI/CD Pipelines

Recreate or adapt your existing CI/CD pipelines in GitLab. Use the .gitlab-ci.yml file to define your workflows.

Example Pipeline:

stages:
  - build
  - test
  - deploy

build-job:
  stage: build
  script:
    - echo "Building application..."
    - dotnet build

test-job:
  stage: test
  script:
    - echo "Running tests..."
    - dotnet test

deploy-job:
  stage: deploy
  script:
    - echo "Deploying application..."
    - kubectl apply -f k8s/production.yaml

Step 5: Validating the Migration

After migration, validate that everything works as expected:

  • Test Pipelines: Run your CI/CD pipelines to ensure they execute correctly.
  • Verify Data: Check that repositories, issues, and other data are complete and accurate.
  • Review Permissions: Confirm that roles and access levels are properly configured.

Step 6: Training and Adoption

Ensure your team is comfortable using GitLab by providing training and documentation. Highlight key features like:

  • Merge requests for code reviews.
  • Integrated CI/CD pipelines.
  • Security tools for vulnerability scanning.

Best Practices for Migration

  • Plan in Phases: Migrate one project or repository at a time to minimize risks.
  • Leverage Automation: Use GitLab’s import tools and APIs to save time and reduce errors.
  • Communicate Changes: Keep stakeholders informed about the migration status and timelines.
  • Monitor Post-Migration: Track metrics and resolve any issues that arise after the migration.

Conclusion

Migrating to GitLab enables teams to take advantage of its integrated platform for code management, CI/CD, and collaboration. By following best practices and using GitLab’s tools, you can ensure a smooth migration and unlock new efficiencies for your workflows. Start planning your migration today to experience the full potential of GitLab.