Want to avoid running into the Elementor invalid template type error while designing your website? Find out how!
Templates are a huge time-saver. They help you launch pages faster without building everything from scratch.
However, when there’s a mismatch in the template type, or the file extension isn’t supported, especially during JSON template file imports, you’ll see the invalid template type error.
It often shows up as an error message or popup that stops you from importing your layout and disrupts your entire design flow.
In this blog, you’ll learn what triggers this issue and how to fix it using 9 easy methods.
What Causes the ‘Invalid template type’ Error in Elementor?
You might run into the invalid template type error when importing Elementor templates into your site, especially if something doesn’t match in the backend.
Here’s what might be causing this issue:
1. Wrong File Type or Format
This error often pops up when you import the wrong kind of file. Elementor expects a .json template file for individual templates.
If you upload a .zip extension or try to load an entire template kit into a section meant for a single template, it won’t work.
This mismatch leads to an error message that blocks the import.
2. Missing Widgets or Incompatible Extensions
If the template you’re importing includes elements created using third-party extensions or custom widgets, and your site doesn’t have them installed, the layout won’t load correctly.
This can trigger the invalid template type message or leave you with a broken design structure.
3. Version Incompatibility
An outdated version of Elementor or Elementor Pro can cause issues with newer template files.
Templates built with the latest features won’t load on older setups, especially if the file format relies on a stable version of the builder.
Keeping your tools updated helps avoid this.
4. Theme or Post Type Conflicts
Some ready-made templates are built for specific custom post types, layout structures or themes.
For example, trying to import a single-page template where an archive template is expected can confuse Elementor and cause an internal error.
5. Server Limitations
Sometimes the issue isn’t with the template file, it could be a server error.
Low PHP memory limits or upload restrictions can interrupt the import process and lead to an error popup.
Checking server configurations usually resolves this.
Suggested Read: How to Increase WordPress PHP Memory Limit [4 Easy Methods]
How to Fix Elementor ‘Invalid template type’ Error [Working Ways]
Seeing the Elementor invalid template type error while importing a template?
It usually happens when there’s a mismatch between the file you’re uploading and what Elementor expects.
Here are 9 different ways to fix this error:
1. Make Sure to Import the Correct File
Elementor only accepts specific formats during import. If you’re uploading a .zip extension where a .json template file is expected, or vice versa, you’ll see an error popup.
This typically happens when users try uploading Template Kits or pre-designed template kits without using the correct method.
Always check the format and import it in the right section of the Elementor interface.
For single templates like block templates or content block templates, use the Templates > Import Templates option.
For full kits, follow the plugin’s guided install flow.
2. Check Elementor Pro Installation
Templates built with Elementor Pro features, like headers, footers, or WooCommerce templates, require the Pro version to function.
If Elementor Pro isn’t installed or the license isn’t connected, the import won’t work.
Go to your WordPress dashboard > Plugins. Make sure Elementor Pro is listed and the plugin is active.
Then head to Elementor > License to confirm it’s connected.
3. Check Addons Widgets Used and Compatibility
Templates may include widgets from Elementor addons. If those widgets aren’t available on your site, Elementor may show invalid post type feedback or fail to render parts of the layout.
Before importing, make sure the same addons are present and install them if they are not.
Using fully compatible addons like The Plus Addons ensures support for a wide range of template kits and avoids plugin-related errors.
4. Update Elementor and Elementor Pro
Outdated Elementor versions can’t always process newer templates, especially those created using recent features.
This causes common errors like the invalid type issue.
To update, go to Dashboard > Plugins and look for Elementor and Elementor Pro. Apply any pending plugin updates.
Keeping both plugins on the latest version helps you avoid interface issues or import template capability failures.
5. Clear Cache
Corrupt or outdated cache can block Elementor from recognizing new template files. Even if your import is correct, Elementor might still read older data.
To clear your Elementor cache go to Elementor > Tools > Regenerate CSS & Data.
You should also clear any cache created by your caching plugin.
6. Check Server Configuration
Sometimes, the issue isn’t Elementor, it’s your server. Elementor needs the right environment to run smoothly.
Missing libraries or low resource limits can cause timeout errors or cURL errors during template import.
Make sure your hosting uses PHP 7.4 or higher, has the cURL library enabled, and supports large file uploads.
You’ll also want to increase the PHP Memory Limit and Max Post Size in your php.ini or ask your host to help.
Dealing with server issues? Learn how to fix the 500 Internal Server Error in WordPress.
7. Check Theme Compatibility
Templates may rely on specific custom post types, layout structures, or widget areas.
If your theme doesn’t support them, you might get the invalid template type error or a broken layout.
Switch to a theme that’s lightweight and built for page builders.
You can test imports using a blank theme like Hello Elementor to check whether the issue is theme-related.
Looking for Elementor themes for your WordPress website? Here are the 5 best Elementor Themes!
8. Contact Your Host
If none of the above steps work, reach out to your hosting provider.
Sometimes, host-related issue, like upload limits, blocked file types, or disabled PHP functions, interfere with template imports.
Explain the issue and ask your host to check the error logs or adjust server settings if needed.
They can help identify if it’s a server block or a permission-related error.
9. Check for Plugin Conflicts
Conflicting plugins can also stop templates from loading correctly. Disable all plugins except Elementor and Elementor Pro, then try importing the template.
If the import works, reactivate your plugins one at a time to find the source of the conflict.
This step helps isolate issues caused by plugin overload or incompatible extensions.
Firewall plugins may sometimes cause other plugins, themes and templates issues.
Check if the template error is an issue with firewall plugin by disabling it temporarily.
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Wrapping Up
The Elementor invalid template type error might seem frustrating, but it’s fixable. From checking file formats and plugin versions to clearing cache and adjusting server settings, you now have multiple ways to solve it.
If you’re looking to upgrade your Elementor experience without worrying about compatibility errors, The Plus Addons for Elementor is the perfect choice.
This performance-optimized plugin offers 120+ widgets that help enhance your website with absolutely no coding needed.
Check out the Complete List of 120+ Widgets and Extensions here. Start building your dream website without coding!
With The Plus Addons, you can design faster using the intuitive drag-and-drop features, improve your page aesthetics, and add advanced functionality easily.
FAQs on Elementor Invalid Template Type Error
Can custom post types trigger the “Invalid Template Type” error in Elementor?
Yes, importing a template tied to custom post types can lead to the Elementor invalid template type error. This happens when the structure expected by the template, such as a single-page template or archive template, doesn’t exist on the site you’re importing it into.
Does Elementor Pro help prevent the “Invalid Template Type” issue?
Elementor Pro helps by enabling advanced Elementor templates like headers, footers, and WooCommerce sections that basic Elementor doesn’t support. Without Pro, templates requiring these features may trigger permission issues, an error message or the page may fail to load completely.
Can third-party plugins cause Elementor’s “Invalid Template Type” error?
Yes, ready-made third-party templates and plugins can cause issues if the original template includes widgets or features from addons not installed on your site. If the necessary plugin isn’t active or compatible, you may see an error message or broken layout during the import.
What are the best practices to avoid template errors in Elementor?
To avoid template errors, use the correct JSON template file for your import and keep Elementor and all related addons on a stable version. Clear cache regularly, check PHP memory limits, and verify that your theme and server setup meet Elementor’s requirements.
