TriggerGoogle DriveReal-timeUpdated May 2026
How do I trigger when a file is created in Google Drive?
Short answer: Drop the "Google Drive → New File" trigger on your workflow canvas, add filters if you want them, and publish. It fires within seconds of the event in Google Drive, not on a polling schedule.
Anatomy
What this trigger looks like in a workflow.
Drop it on the canvas. Configure a couple of fields. Publish.
In the builder
Trigger
New File
When the matching event happens
when file creatednew file createdwatch for file createdon file createdwhen a new file is created in google drivefile addednew file
What this trigger returns
for the curiousYou don’t need to read this. Tiny Command auto-maps every field into the visual picker so downstream nodes can pull values by clicking. We show it here for power users who want to know what’s on the wire.
{"id": "file_123","name": "Report.pdf","mime_type": "application/pdf"}
Output shape
Fields available to downstream nodes.
Every field below can be referenced by name in any action or filter that comes after this trigger.
| Field | Type | Example |
|---|---|---|
| id | string | "file_123" |
| name | string | "Report.pdf" |
| mime_type | string | "application/pdf" |
Pairs with
Drop these actions after New File.
FAQ
Questions about New File.
How does the New File trigger work in Google Drive?
Fires when a new file is created in Google Drive (optionally scoped to a specific folder). Common use: ingest new docs into your CMS, OCR receipts, or alert the team when a contract drops.
Is the New File trigger real-time?
Yes. New File uses webhooks or push subscriptions, not polling. Your workflow fires within seconds of the event happening in Google Drive.
What data does New File return?
The full event payload from Google Drive. The output shape table on this page lists every field, its type, and an example value so you can map fields into downstream nodes.
Can I filter New File so only some events start a workflow?
Yes. Add a Filter node right after the trigger and match on any field, whether that's subject, sender, status, or anything else in the payload. Workflows only continue when the filter passes.
Do I need Google Drive admin permissions to use New File?
For most Google Drive accounts a standard user can authorize the trigger. Some Google Drive plans require an admin to enable third-party webhooks. Check Google Drive's docs if the trigger fails to register.
More triggers
Other Google Drive triggers.
Trigger
File Updated
Fires when a file in Google Drive is updated (content edited, renamed, moved, or re-shared). Used to re-index search, re-sync into your KB, or notify watchers.
TriggerNew Folder
Fires when a new folder is created in Google Drive (optionally scoped to a parent). Use for templated folder provisioning or governance audit logs.
Build a workflow on this trigger.
One trigger. 8+ downstream actions. Zero glue.
