Opening the selected ArcMap document failed. This map document was saved using a newer version of ArcGIS

Error Message

Opening an MXD file in ArcMap returns the error message:

Error:   
Opening the selected ArcMap document failed. This map document was saved using a newer version of ArcGIS. To save a map document from a newer version of ArcGIS so it can be opened in an earlier version, use the File > Save A Copy command.

Cause

The error message is returned when an older version of ArcMap is used to open an MXD file created in a newer version. For example, using ArcMap 10.5 to open an MXD file created in ArcMap 10.6.

Solution or Workaround

To resolve this issue, the creator of the MXD file can use the Save A Copy command in ArcMap to save the file for a specific version of ArcMap, allowing other users to view it.

1. Click File > Save A Copy in ArcMap.
2. Select a file type from the Save as type drop-down menu. Click Save.

Note:
Alternatively, upgrade to the latest version of ArcMap to read the MXD file.