Laravel required_array_keys Validation

required_array_keys validation rule for array validation. Learn setup, use cases, and practical examples for API requests, settings, and nested data validation.

February 9, 2026•1 min read•ssbhattarai
Laravel

What is required_array_keys?

Validates that a field is an array AND contains specific required keys. Perfect for validating structured data like API payloads, settings objects, and configuration arrays.

Basic Use Case

$request->validate([
    'settings' => 'required_array_keys:theme,language',
]);

The settings field must:

  • Be an array
  • Have theme key
  • Have language key
Pro Tip: Use required_array_keys for structured API data to ensure clients send complete payloads. Combine with nested validation rules for robust input checking.
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