Invite Only Session and Passive Mode: Play in Peace in GTA Online
If you want to play in peace in GTA Online, the real answer is an Invite Only Session. You are alone there, or with the friends you invite, and since July 2022 you can run both your heists and your business sales in it. Passive Mode only stops you getting shot in a Public Session while you move around: it blocks most of the activities that make money.
Which session should you pick?
| Session type | Who can join | What it is for |
|---|---|---|
| Public | Anyone | Public events, sales with the High Demand Bonus, meeting other players |
| Invite Only | Only the players you invite | Preps, heists, risk-free sales |
| Friend | Your platform friends | Playing with your friends list without inviting people one by one |
| Crew | Members of your crew | Playing as an organized group |
To get there: pause menu, "Online" tab, "Find New Session", then pick the type you want.
Can you do everything in an Invite Only Session?
Almost. Since The Criminal Enterprises update on July 26, 2022, the Rockstar Newswire has allowed business activities, sales included, in Invite Only, Friend and Crew Sessions, along with registering as a VIP, CEO or MC President. Heists and their preps work there too. What you lose: public events and the High Demand Bonus reserved for sales in Public Sessions. The business-by-business breakdown is in our tip on selling goods in an Invite Only Session.
What is Passive Mode really for?
You turn it on for free from the Interaction Menu. While it is on, other players cannot shoot you, but you cannot shoot them either. According to the GTA Wiki and Power Up Gaming (January 2026), it has real limits:
- it switches off as soon as you get into a weaponized vehicle;
- you cannot use your weapons;
- it keeps you out of many Freemode activities and CEO or MC President features.
It is useful for crossing the map in a Public Session or waiting for a friend. It does not replace an Invite Only Session when you want to grind.
To play with friends in your session, see playing GTA Online with a crew. For your first sales, read how to make money solo.
FAQ
Can you sell your goods in an Invite Only Session?
Yes. Since The Criminal Enterprises update on July 26, 2022, business sales and registering as a CEO, VIP or MC President work in Invite Only, Friend and Crew Sessions.
Does Passive Mode protect you during a sale?
No, that is not what it is for: it does not work with many activities or with weaponized vehicles. To sell in peace, use an Invite Only Session.
Do you earn more by selling in a Public Session?
Yes, Rockstar announced a higher High Demand Bonus for sales made in Public Sessions. You have to weigh it against the risk of losing your product.
Sources
- Rockstar Newswire: The Criminal Enterprises, Coming July 26 to GTA Online (July 2022)
- TheGamer: GTA Online Finally Lets You Run Businesses In Private Lobbies (2022)
- GTA Wiki (Fandom): Passive Mode (undated, accessed September 23, 2026)
- Power Up Gaming: How to Get Out of Passive Mode in GTA Online (January 21, 2026)
Guide prepared with the help of AI tools from the sources cited, then reviewed by the WantedWise team. Independent site, not affiliated with Rockstar Games.
