8418: Request cannot be empty. It must contain at least one request action

Error Message

Attempts to perform an offline authorization of ArcGIS for Desktop returns the following error message:

Error:   
Error 8418: Request cannot be empty. It must contain at least one request action.

Cause

This issue may be due to the usage of an outdated provisioning file (.prvs). A provisioning file is an authorization file containing user information, features, and extension authorization numbers. As the authorization processes may have been updated over time, an outdated provisioning file is unable to complete the offline authorization process due to invalid or non-existing credentials.

Solution or Workaround

Create a new provisioning file with up-to-date user information and credentials. For more information on how to create and use provisioning files, refer to ArcGIS Help: Provisioning files.

Subsequently, run the offline authorization wizard, and when prompted, select the newly created provisioning file.

It is recommended to check the details and credentials stored within the provisioning file prior to the authorization process.