---
sourceDocument: Zurich Build workflows
sourceDocumentLink: https://www.servicenow.com/docs/r/zurich/build-workflows

 Release :

    - zurich

ft:locale :

    - en-US

ft:publication_title :

    - Zurich Build workflows

ft:clusterId :

    - crworkflow

bundleId :

    - crworkflow

workflow :

    - Creator


---

# Pass a variable from a workflow to a subflow

# Pass a variable from a workflow to a subflow {#ariaid-title1}

* Release version: Zurich
* 
* Updated July 31, 2025
* 
* ![](https://www.servicenow.com/docs/portal-asset/ico-clock) 1 minute to read

Use this process to pass variables from a parent workflow to a subflow.

## Before you begin

Role required: workflow_admin, workflow_creator, or admin

## About this task

Note:  
You can also use the Return Value activity in the subflow to return values to the parent workflow. Make sure to have a Return Value on every ending transition path.

## Procedure

1. Prepare the subflow to accept variables from the parent workflow by defining the inputs.
2. Include the subflow in the parent workflow and connect the inputs to the parent workflow variables.  
   Note:  
   You cannot pass variables to a subflow that runs on the Requested Item \[sc_req_item\] table.

## Define inputs for a subflow {#ariaid-title2}

Define the input variables for a workflow to request from parent workflows when it is
launched as a subflow.

### About this task

All inputs are stored in the Variables \[var_dictionary\] table.

### Procedure

1. In the editor, open and check out the workflow.
2. In the title bar, click the menu icon and select Edit Inputs.
3. In the Workflow Inputs window, click New.
4. Populate the record with the definition of the variable, including the column name, the label that is displayed to the user, and the type of field.
5. Click Submit.

## Invoke a subflow in a workflow {#ariaid-title3}

Use this procedure to add a subflow to a workflow.

### Procedure

1. In the Workflow Editor, open and check out the parent workflow.
2. Drag the subflow from the Workflows tab to the parent workflow.
3. In the New Activity dialog box, define the variables defined by the subflow's Inputs.  
   These fields can accept both static values or variables in the following
   format:

   `${variable_name}`
4. Click Submit.  
   The workflow triggers the subflow at the appropriate time and passes the
   variables as indicated by the Inputs definition.