How to Copy a Git Repository to a New Remote (and Make It a Template If Needed)

  • Post category:Snippets

Sometimes you need to create a copy of an existing Git repository—maybe to start a new project, share a codebase with a different team, or set up a public starter kit. This guide shows you how to copy your repository to a new remote, with options for mirroring the entire repo or just a specific branch. You’ll also see how to turn the new repository into a template if you want others to use it as a starting point.

1. Create a New Repository on GitHub

  • Go to GitHub and create a new repository (do not fork the original).
  • Leave it empty—no README, .gitignore, or license.

2. Add the New Remote to Your Local Repository

In your project directory, add the new repository as a remote:

git remote add new-origin https://github.com/YOUR_USERNAME/NEW_REPO_NAME.git
Bash

Replace the Github URL with the URL of the new repository you created.

3. Copy Your Repository

Option A: Mirror the Entire Repository

This copies all branches, tags, and history:

git push --mirror new-origin
Bash

You can use this to clone the entire repository and its history.

Option B: Push Only a Specific Branch

To copy just one branch (for example, main):

git push new-origin your-branch:main
Bash

Replace your-branch with the branch you want to copy.

4. (Optional) Remove the Extra Remote

If you don’t need the new remote in your local setup:

git remote remove new-origin
Bash

This detaches the repository from the new repository.

5. (Optional) Make the New Repository a Template

If you want others to use your new repository as a template:

  • Go to the new repository on GitHub.
  • Click Settings > General.
  • Check the Template repository box.

Now, anyone can use the “Use this template” button to create their own copy.

Tags: , , , , , , , ,