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Git error Please make sure you have the correct access rights and the repository exists

27 September 2026 · 5 min read

Git error Please make sure you have the correct access rights and the repository exists

Encountering the dreaded “Please make sure you have the correct access rights and the repository exists” error in Git can bring your workflow to a screeching halt. This frustrating message often appears when trying to clone, push, or pull from a Git repository, leaving you wondering where you went wrong. Understanding the underlying causes and knowing how to troubleshoot this issue is crucial for any developer working with Git. This article will delve into the common reasons behind this error and provide practical solutions to get you back on track.

SSH Key Configuration

One of the most frequent culprits behind this error is incorrect SSH key configuration. Git relies on SSH keys for secure communication between your local machine and the remote repository. If your SSH keys aren’t properly set up or linked to your Git account, you’ll likely encounter this access rights error. This often happens when working with platforms like GitHub, GitLab, or Bitbucket.

To verify your SSH configuration, try connecting to the remote server using ssh -T git@github.com (replace github.com with your Git provider’s server address). If you receive a “Permission denied” message, it indicates an issue with your SSH keys. Generating a new SSH key pair and adding the public key to your Git account settings is usually the solution.

For detailed instructions on SSH key generation and configuration, refer to your Git provider’s documentation.

Repository URL

Another common mistake is using the wrong repository URL. Double-check that you’re using the correct URL for the repository you’re trying to access. A simple typo or an outdated URL can trigger the “repository does not exist” part of the error message. This is especially important when working with private repositories or when repository URLs have been changed.

Ensure the URL matches the one provided by your Git platform. If you’re cloning a repository, copy the URL directly from the platform’s interface. If you’re working with a team, confirm the correct URL with your colleagues.

Sometimes, the issue might be with the protocol used in the URL (HTTPS vs. SSH). Try switching protocols if one isn’t working.

Access Permissions

The error message explicitly mentions “access rights,” highlighting the possibility of insufficient permissions. If you’re working with a private repository or a repository owned by someone else, you need to be explicitly granted access. The repository owner must add you as a collaborator or grant you the necessary permissions to clone, push, or pull changes.

Contact the repository owner and request access. They can usually add you through the settings or access control section of their Git platform. Once added, you should be able to interact with the repository without issues.

In organizations, access control is often managed through teams or groups. Ensure you’re part of the correct team with appropriate repository access.

Firewall/VPN Interference

Firewalls or VPNs can sometimes interfere with Git operations. They might block connections to the remote repository, leading to the access rights error. If you suspect this is the case, try temporarily disabling your firewall or VPN to see if it resolves the issue.

If disabling your firewall or VPN solves the problem, you’ll need to configure them to allow connections to your Git provider’s servers. This typically involves adding the server’s IP address or domain to the firewall’s or VPN’s whitelist.

Consult your firewall or VPN documentation for specific instructions on configuring access rules.

Typographical Errors

A seemingly minor typo in the repository name or branch name can also trigger this error. Double-check the spelling of the repository and branch you’re trying to access. Case sensitivity can also play a role, so ensure you’re using the correct capitalization.

Pay close attention to any error messages that include specific names or paths. These messages can often provide clues about where the typo might be located.

Using tab completion in your terminal can help avoid typos when entering commands and paths.

  • Verify SSH keys and repository URL.
  • Confirm access permissions with the repository owner.
  1. Check SSH configuration.
  2. Verify repository URL.
  3. Confirm access permissions.
  4. Check firewall/VPN settings.

For more Git resources, visit our Git tutorial.

Featured Snippet: The “Please make sure you have the correct access rights and the repository exists” error in Git typically arises from SSH key misconfiguration, incorrect repository URLs, or insufficient access permissions. Verify these elements first when troubleshooting.

[Infographic Placeholder] ### FAQ

Q: I’m still getting the error after checking everything. What else could be wrong?

A: Consider checking your Git credentials, two-factor authentication settings, or contacting your Git provider’s support for further assistance.

Successfully resolving the “Please make sure you have the correct access rights and the repository exists” error is essential for smooth Git workflows. By systematically checking your SSH configuration, repository URL, access permissions, and firewall settings, you can quickly pinpoint the issue and get back to coding. Remember to double-check for typos and consider seeking help from your team or Git provider’s support if the problem persists. Take the time now to strengthen your Git troubleshooting skills, saving yourself valuable time and frustration in the future. Explore additional resources and tutorials to deepen your understanding of Git and its intricacies.

Git Basics - Working with Remotes
Connecting to a remote - Atlassian Git Tutorial
Connecting to GitHub with SSHQuestion & Answer :
I am using TortoiseGit on Windows. When I am trying to Clone from the context menu of the standard Windows Explorer, I get this error:

Please make sure you have the correct access rights and the repository exists

More precisely, the snapshot of terminal is the following:

git.exe clone –progress -v “git@arobotdev:\git\AlfaRobot.git” “C:\Work\AlfaRobot”

Cloning into ‘C:\Work\AlfaRobot’…
Permission denied, please try again.
Permission denied, please try again.
Permission denied (publickey,password).
fatal: Could not read from remote repository.

Please make sure you have the correct access rights
and the repository exists.

git did not exit cleanly (exit code 128) (21450 ms @ 19.09.2014 10:36:58)

What should I do to make git work properly ?

Your git URL might have changed. Change the URL in the local directory by using the following command:

for https protocol

git remote set-url origin https://github.com/username/repository.git

for ssh protocol

git remote set-url origin <a class="__cf_email__" data-cfemail="87e0eef3c7e0eef3eff2e5a9e4e8ea" href="/cdn-cgi/l/email-protection">[email protected]</a>:username/repository.git

There might be multiple causes for the issue:

  1. If the issue is with your ssh identity, see onkar-m18’s answer here
  2. If ssh key is not added to hosting server, see lovekush-vishwakarma’s answer here