Cannot add external users to my Google Spaces

Question

Hello,
I have set up a couple of Google Spaces on my chat account, but ther allow external users is greyed out and I've tried a number of ways and searches to try and circumvent, but I'm at a loss on how to get this unblocked so I can invite outside contractors into my Space to work on projects. Please help. 
I should add that the users I'm trying to invite have Google accounts and yet, I still can't invite them?

Penelope · Accepted Answer

I know there is at least one edition where external users can not be added to Spaces (it's Business Starter). 
I personally don't have access to Admin Console myself however I believe you should be able to tell underneath subscriptions so try this: (found these instructions at https://support.google.com/a/answer/9522878). 
Not sure which edition you have? You can view your current subscription and payment plan on the BillingManage subscriptions page in the Google Admin console. For details, go to What’s my subscription and payment plan?

Molly Youngblood · Accepted Answer

Hello Annie,
Here is how to find out what version of Google Workspace you have.
1. Log into your business account and open admin.google.com
2. If the left menu is not opened, click on the burger icon to open it. Then navigate to Billing > Subscriptions.

3. On the Subscriptions page you will find Google Workspace listed along with the edition you’re currently using. For example, Business Standard.

Click on Google Workspace to find out more about your plan, including the number of licenses assigned to users within your organization, and whether you're on a Flexible Plan or an Annual/Fixed-Term Plan.
Hope this helps.
Thanks,
Molly

Molly Youngblood · Accepted Answer

Hello Annie,
Thanks for posting your concern in the Google Chat community.
Here is a help article about adding external users to a Google Chat Space.
Can you please let me know if you are using the consumer (free) version of chat or are you using the Workspace (paid) version of Chat?
Normally you would just find the user or type the external email address to send an invitation.
Are you able to email your external contractors?
Please let us know.
Thanks,
Molly

Penelope · Accepted Answer

Hi Annie, are you also the Workspace Admin?
If not, ask them what type of Workspace edition you are (please be as specific as possible so Business Starter, Business Standard, Education Teaching Upgrade, etc) and what they have in the way of https://support.google.com/a/answer/9296706?

Molly Youngblood · Accepted Answer

Hello Annie,
Sure thing, let us know if you have any more questions.
Thanks,
Molly

Molly Youngblood · Accepted Answer

Hello Annie,
Yes if you upgrade you should be able to add external users.
Thanks,
Molly