How to Create an Online Form with File Upload

Paige Zeller
24 July 2025 Features 2 min read

One of the most powerful features you can add to your online forms is the ability for respondents to upload files directly as part of their submission. Whether you need images, documents, videos, or audio files, having a streamlined file upload capability can significantly enhance your data collection process.

In this article, we explore how you can easily create an online form with file upload functionality using Activity Messenger’s intuitive drag-and-drop form builder.

 

Key Takeaways:

  • Enhance online forms with file upload capabilities.
  • Easily create forms using Activity Messenger’s drag-and-drop builder.
  • Support multiple file types: images, documents, videos, and audio.
  • Streamline data collection and reduce email back-and-forth.
  • Manage uploaded files efficiently from your dashboard.
  • Ideal for event registrations, job applications, and customer support.

 

 

Table of Contents

 

This article is inspired by insights from Olivier Rousseau, co-founder of Activity Messenger, who brings over twelve years of experience in online registration for kids’ sports programs.

Why Add File Upload to Online Forms?

File upload options in forms open up a world of possibilities. Instead of just collecting text responses, you can gather:

  • Photos taken on a mobile device or computer
  • Scanned documents such as invoices, contracts, or receipts
  • Videos or audio files for testimonials, evidence, or creative submissions
  • Various file types, including PDFs, Excel sheets, Word documents, and PowerPoint presentations

This feature is particularly useful in contexts like event registrations, membership applications, digital waivers, or any scenario where verifying identity or gathering supporting documentation is necessary. Having this functionality built into your form eliminates the need for back-and-forth emails and manual file transfers, saving time and reducing friction for both you and your respondents.

 

form-example

Step-by-Step: Building a Form with File Upload in Activity Messenger

1. Set Up a Basic Form to Collect Information

Start by creating a new form in the Activity Messenger platform. The form can be as simple or as complex as you need, but for this example, the goal is to collect basic information from the respondent.

Common fields might include name, email, contact number, or any other relevant details. The form builder allows you to easily customize the form layout by dragging and dropping different question types.

file-upload-form

 

2. Add the File Upload Question

Next, add a question type designed specifically for file uploads. In Activity Messenger’s drag-and-drop builder, this is straightforward:

  • Select the file upload option from the question types menu.
  • Choose the type of files you want to accept. For example, you can restrict uploads to images only, or allow a broader range of file types such as PDFs, Excel spreadsheets, Word documents, PowerPoint files, videos, or audio recordings.
  • Specify whether respondents can upload a single file or multiple files. This is handy if you expect multiple invoices or photos.
  • Add a description or instructions to guide respondents on the type of file to upload, as well as any file size or format limitations.

This flexibility means you can tailor the file upload to suit your exact needs, whether you’re collecting a single photo ID or multiple supporting documents.

file-upload-question

 

3. Customize Additional Form Elements

Besides file uploads, you can continue to build your form with other question types such as:

  • Text blocks for longer responses or explanations
  • Dropdown menus for yes/no or multiple-choice questions
  • Digital signatures for consent or agreement
  • Checkboxes or radio buttons for selections

Moreover, you can set which questions are required, ensuring respondents cannot submit the form without completing key fields like the file upload. This guarantees that you receive all the necessary information and attachments before processing the submission.

file-upload-customize

 

4. Submit and Validate the Form

Once a respondent fills out the form and uploads the required file(s), they can click the submit or agree button. If any required fields are missing, the form will prompt the user to complete them before proceeding.

This validation step helps avoid incomplete submissions and ensures your data is consistent and actionable.

file-upload-submit

Managing Uploaded Files on the Backend

One of the biggest advantages of using Activity Messenger’s form builder is how it handles uploaded files on the backend. Once respondents submit their forms with attachments, you can easily access these files from your dashboard.

  • Navigate to the “Respondents” section of your Activity Messenger account.
  • Customize visible columns to include the file upload field, so you can see which respondents have uploaded files and view them directly.
  • Download or preview uploaded images, PDFs, Excel files, or other documents as needed.

This streamlined access to uploaded files means you can quickly review submissions, verify information, and follow up without toggling between multiple platforms or inboxes.

 

file-upload-managing

Want a file upload system customized to your needs?

Book a demo with one of our experts and discover how Activity Messenger can help simplify your operations.

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Practical Use Cases for File Upload Forms

The ability to collect files through a form is valuable in many real-world scenarios. Here are a few examples where this feature can be a game-changer:

  • Event Registrations: Collect signed waivers, ID photos, or proof of payment.
  • Job Applications: Accept resumes, cover letters, and portfolios in various formats.
  • Customer Support: Allow customers to upload screenshots or videos demonstrating issues.
  • School Enrolments: Gather birth certificates, immunization records, and signed consent forms.
  • Vendor Onboarding: Collect contracts, certificates, and tax documents.

Why Consider Activity Messenger for File Upload Forms?

Why choose Activity Messenger for building your forms with file uploads? Here are some key benefits:

  • Drag-and-Drop Simplicity: No coding skills required. Build and customize forms visually.
  • Flexible File Types: Support for images, videos, audio files, and common document formats.
  • Multiple Uploads: Allow respondents to upload several files if necessary.
  • Validation and Required Fields: Ensure all necessary files and information are collected before submission.
  • Easy Backend Management: View, download, and organize uploaded files directly within the platform.
  • Mobile-Friendly: Respondents can upload files directly from their phones, including photos taken on the spot.

Whether you are collecting images, documents, or multimedia files, Activity Messenger’s drag-and-drop form builder makes it easy to design customized forms tailored to your exact needs.

 

💡 Ready to build your own online form with file upload capabilities? Book a demo call today to explore your options.

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