Play: the caller does not have permission

What this error means

The Google Cloud service account used for uploads wasn’t invited to Play Console, or can’t release this app.

Why it happens

The service account authenticated, then Play refused the call. It has not been invited to the console, or it cannot release this app.

The message tools print

Google Api Error: forbidden: The caller does not have permission

How to fix it

1. In Play Console → Users and permissions, invite the service account’s email.
2. Give it access to this app, with permission to release to testing tracks.
3. Changes can take a few minutes to apply.

Check a log that shows this

Paste the failing step into the build error explainer. It matches this message, and any others in the same log, in your browser. Nothing is uploaded.

Other Google Play errors

• Play: version code has already been used
• Android App Bundle is signed with the wrong key
• Play: bundle was signed in debug mode
• Google Play: Package not found
• Play: app must target a higher API level