Install Jira Marketplace app manually with descriptor file

Platform Notice: Cloud Only - This article only applies to Atlassian apps on the cloud platform.

Summary

If you encounter issues with direct installation, such as those caused by active license restrictions, you can install a Marketplace app using its descriptor file.

Solution

Install app by uploading the descriptor file

  1. Visit the Atlassian Marketplace and search for the app you wish to install

  2. On the app page, scroll to the Resources section

  3. Right-click on Get the descriptor file and select Copy link address

  4. Navigate to your Manage apps page by selecting ⚙️ Settings > Apps

  5. You will receive the below notification that app management has moved

    Jira Cloud App management has moved notification
  6. Select Take me there to be taken to the Connected apps page. Org admin or Site admin permissions required.

  7. Select tab Settings > Enable development mode and confirm your selection. The Install a private app option will now appear on the top-right side of the page.

    Jira cloud connected apps settings
  8. Select Install a private app, choose your product, and paste the URL copied in Step 3.

The system will process the descriptor link, and after a short while, the app will be installed.

Updated on September 26, 2025

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