MKV Importer for Adobe After Effects
A lightweight extension that lets Adobe After Effects accept MKV (Matroska) source files natively, so editors can skip the slow transcoding step. Drop it in, restart After Effects, and import .mkv files like any other clip.
Install MKV Importer
- Step 1
Download & Extract
Download MKV Importer and extract the ZIP to a normal folder (for example your Desktop).
Do not run the installer directly from inside the ZIP file. - Step 2
Close After Effects
Completely close Adobe After Effects before continuing.
- Step 3
Run the Installer
Double-click Install-MKVImporter.bat. The installer automatically installs the extension, downloads FFmpeg, and configures everything required. Wait until the installer says Done.
If Windows shows "Windows protected your PC", click More info → Run anyway. The installer needs an internet connection the first time so it can download FFmpeg. - Step 4
Enable Scripting
Open Adobe After Effects, go to Edit → Preferences → Scripting & Expressions, then enable "Allow Scripts to Write Files and Access Network" and click OK.
This is required for the importer to function. - Step 5
Open the Panel
Go to Window → Extensions → MKV Importer.
- Step 6
Import MKV Files
Drag your .mkv files onto the panel or click Add MKV, then click Convert & Import. Your MKV files are automatically converted and imported directly into your After Effects project.
Supported versions
- After Effects 2020
- After Effects 2021
- After Effects 2022
- After Effects 2023
- After Effects 2024
- After Effects 2025
- After Effects 2026
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