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Permission & Access Issues

How to Fix Cannot View or Upload Files in Shared OneDrive Folder

Guest WriterGuest Writer Sep 25, 2026 869 views

Question details

The user is unable to view existing files or upload new files to a shared OneDrive folder due to a location or permission error.

How to Fix Cannot View or Upload Files in a Shared OneDrive Folder
Product
Microsoft OneDrive
Device & OS
Desktop and iPhone
Scenario
Accessing and collaborating on files within a shared OneDrive folder across desktop and mobile devices.
Observed behavior
The system displays an error stating the location no longer exists or that the user lacks permission, preventing them from viewing or uploading files on both desktop and iPhone apps.
Before you start

Ensure you are logged into the correct Microsoft account on your device and verify that the folder owner has not recently moved, deleted, or revoked your access to the shared folder.

Solution 1Recommended

Verify Sharing Method and Edit Permissions

Check if the folder is shared correctly with the required edit permissions and test alternative sharing methods.

OneDrive sharing issues can often occur if the folder was shared using specific designated people instead of a standard sharing link, or if the permissions were accidentally set to view-only.

1
Check current permissions

Ask the folder owner to log into OneDrive on the web, right-click the shared folder, and select 'Manage access' to ensure your account has 'Can edit' permissions.

2
Test a new sharing link

If direct sharing fails, ask the owner to create a new test folder, click 'Share', and select 'Copy link'.

3
Enable editing on the link

Ensure the owner clicks the link settings and checks the 'Allow editing' box before sharing the new link with you.

App Sync Delays: Changes to permissions may take a few minutes to sync to your desktop and iPhone apps. Refresh the app after the owner updates the settings.
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Frequently Asked Questions

Why does OneDrive say the shared location no longer exists?

This error typically occurs if the folder owner moved or deleted the folder, or if the sharing link has expired. It can also be caused by a temporary syncing glitch between the desktop app and Microsoft's cloud servers.

How do I fix OneDrive shared folder upload issues on my iPhone?

First, ensure your OneDrive app is updated to the latest version in the App Store. Try signing out and signing back into your account. If the issue persists, log into OneDrive via Safari to confirm your upload permissions are intact.

Can a recipient upload files to a OneDrive folder shared via a link?

Yes, but only if the sharing link was generated with the 'Allow editing' or 'Anyone with the link can edit' option selected. If the link is set to view-only, recipients will not see an upload or edit option.