GitHub Actions "The requested workflow was not found at ref"

By Daniel Zoghalchali·Latchkey

Workflow dispatch and reusable-workflow references resolve the workflow file as it exists on a specific ref. If the file is absent on that ref, GitHub returns not found even when it exists on another branch.

What this error means

A dispatch or call fails with the requested workflow not being found at the specified ref.

Error: The requested workflow was not found at ref 'refs/heads/feature-x'.
Ensure the workflow file exists on that ref.

Common causes

Workflow file missing on the target ref

The file exists on another branch but not on the ref being dispatched/called.

Renamed or moved workflow file

The path changed and the dispatch still references the old name.

How to fix it

Reference an existing ref and path

1. Confirm the workflow file exists at the exact path on the target ref.
2. For workflow_dispatch via API, ensure the ref input points to a branch that contains the file.
3. Merge the workflow to the target branch if needed.

How to prevent it

• Keep dispatchable workflows on the branches you dispatch from.
• Update references when renaming or moving workflow files.

Frequently asked questions

Related guides

References

• GitHub Actions documentation
• Workflow syntax for GitHub Actions