Which role to ask for, by task
One row per job. Ask for the role in the second column and nothing broader: the smallest role that does the job is easier for the client to approve, easier to audit, and simpler to remove when the work ends.
| Task | Ask for | Access type |
|---|---|---|
| Submit sitemaps and request indexing (full SEO work) | Full user | User access |
| View performance reports | Restricted user | User access |
What the client needs before starting
Only someone with these rights can add the agency. If your contact doesn't have them, ask who does first.
- Google Search ConsoleOwner (verified or delegated) of the Search Console property.
- Google Search ConsoleOwner of the Search Console property.
Step-by-step pages for Google Search Console
Submit sitemaps and request indexing (full SEO work)
- What Search Console access do I need to do SEO work for a client?→ Full user · Full user. Don't ask to be an owner unless you'll manage other users or property links.
View performance reports
- What Search Console access do I need to only view a client's search performance?→ Restricted user · Restricted user.
What the client clicks
The top-level clicks in Google Search Console. Each task page above has the exact role to pick at the last step.
- Open the property in Search Console.
- Go to Settings → Users and permissions (only owners see it).
- Click Add user, enter the agency's Google account email.
- Choose Full and save.
What breaks if the role is wrong
- Too low · Submit sitemaps and request indexing (full SEO work)Restricted: URL Inspection is fetch-only and sitemaps, removals and crawl settings are view-only.
- Too high · Submit sitemaps and request indexing (full SEO work)Owner can add and remove users and owners.
- Too low · View performance reportsNo access: Search Console shows no property.
- Gotcha · View performance reportsIf the scope grows to technical SEO, upgrade to Full.
Copy this access request
One message for every Google Search Console role above. Fill in the blanks and paste it into your email to the client. Nothing you type leaves this page.
Sources
- https://support.google.com/webmasters/answer/7687615 · checked Oct 13, 2026
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The long-form walkthrough, beyond the role table.
Not sure? Use the access level picker
Answer two questions and get the level to request.