If you’re wondering how to get verified on Instagram, you’re not alone. Getting the blue checkmark badge on your profile is one of the most coveted achievements for many Instagram users, as it signifies that you are a public figure, celebrity, or brand with a high level of authenticity and credibility. However, getting verified on Instagram is not easy, as the platform has strict criteria and guidelines for who can qualify for the verification badge. In this article, we’ll explain what Instagram verification means, who can get verified on Instagram, how to apply for verification, and some tips to increase your chances of getting approved.
What does Instagram verification mean?
Instagram verification is the process of getting a blue checkmark badge next to your username on your profile, search results, and comments. This badge indicates that Instagram has confirmed that your account belongs to the person or entity it represents, and that it is the official and authentic account of that person or entity. The verification badge helps users to identify and follow the real accounts of their favorite celebrities, influencers, brands, organizations, and public figures, and to avoid fake or impersonator accounts that may try to scam or mislead them.
Who can get verified on Instagram?
According to Instagram’s help center, anyone can request a verified badge on Instagram. However, not everyone can get verified, as Instagram has specific requirements and standards for who can qualify for the verification badge. According to Instagram, “only some public figures, celebrities and brands have verified badges on Instagram.” In other words, only accounts with a high likelihood of being impersonated or confused with other accounts can get verified. To be eligible for verification, your account must also meet the following criteria:
Authentic: Your account must represent a real person, registered business or entity.
Unique: Your account must be the unique presence of the person or business it represents. Only one account per person or business may be verified, with exceptions for language-specific accounts. Fan or parody accounts are not eligible for verification.
Complete: Your account must be public and have a bio, profile photo and at least one post. Your profile can’t contain “add me” links to other social media services.
Notable: Your account must represent a well-known, highly searched for person, brand or entity. Instagram reviews accounts that are featured in multiple news sources, and doesn’t consider paid or promotional content as sources for review.
How to apply for verification on Instagram
The verification process on Instagram is actually quite simple:
Go to your Instagram profile and tap the hamburger icon in the top right corner
Tap Settings
Tap Account
Tap Request Verification
Fill in the application form. You’ll need to provide your legal name, your “known as” or working name (if applicable), your category (such as music, sports, media, etc.), and a copy of your government-issued photo ID (such as a driver’s license or passport) or an official business document (such as a tax filing or utility bill) if you’re applying as a business.
Hit Submit
After you submit your request, you’ll see a confirmation message that says “We’ll review your request.” You’ll also receive a notification in your notifications tab when your request is approved or denied. According to Instagram1, it may take up to 30 days for them to review your request. You can also check the status of your request by going back to the Request Verification screen.
10 tips to get verified on Instagram
Getting verified on Instagram is not guaranteed, as it depends on many factors that are beyond your control. However, there are some things you can do to improve your chances of getting approved by following these tips:
Follow the rules: Make sure you comply with Instagram’s Terms of Service and Community Guidelines. Avoid any behavior that may violate these rules, such as spamming, posting inappropriate content, buying followers or likes, using third-party apps or bots, etc.
Be active: Post regularly and consistently on your account, and engage with your followers and other users. Show that you are an active and valuable member of the Instagram community.
Be authentic: Show your personality and style on your account, and make sure it reflects who you are or what your brand stands for. Don’t copy or imitate other accounts, and don’t use fake or misleading information on your profile.
Be unique: Showcase what makes you or your brand different and special from others in your niche or industry. Highlight your achievements, awards, recognitions, collaborations, partnerships, etc.
Be notable: Increase your visibility and popularity on Instagram and other platforms by creating high-quality and engaging content that attracts and retains your audience’s attention. Collaborate with other influencers or brands in your niche or industry, and get featured in reputable media outlets or publications.
Be professional: Use a clear and high-resolution profile picture that represents you or your brand well. Write a concise and informative bio that summarizes who you are or what your brand does, and include relevant keywords, hashtags, and links. Use a consistent and recognizable username that matches your name or brand name across other social media platforms.
Be verified elsewhere: If you have a verified account on other platforms, such as Twitter, Facebook, YouTube, TikTok, etc., make sure you link them to your Instagram account. This can help Instagram to verify your identity and credibility, and to see that you have a strong online presence and following.
Be patient: Don’t apply for verification too soon or too often, as this may make you look desperate or spammy. Wait until you have a solid and established account with a sizable and loyal following before you apply for verification. Also, don’t expect to get verified overnight, as it may take weeks or months for Instagram to review your request.
Be honest: Don’t lie or exaggerate on your verification application, as this may backfire and hurt your chances of getting approved. Provide accurate and truthful information about yourself or your brand, and don’t use fake or stolen documents or photos.
Be realistic: Don’t get discouraged or frustrated if your verification request is denied, as this is very common and normal. Instagram has very high standards and expectations for verification, and they may reject your request for various reasons that are not always clear or explained. You can always reapply after 30 days if you think you have improved your account and met the criteria.
Instagram verification FAQ
Here are some common questions and answers about Instagram verification:
Q: How many followers do I need to get verified on Instagram?
A: There is no specific number of followers that you need to get verified on Instagram, as the verification badge is not based on the quantity of followers, but on the quality and notability of your account. However, having more followers can help you to demonstrate that you are a well-known and highly searched for person or brand, and that you have a high likelihood of being impersonated or confused with other accounts.
Q: How much does it cost to get verified on Instagram?
A: It doesn’t cost anything to apply for verification on Instagram, as it is a free service provided by the platform. However, there are some third-party services or individuals that may claim to offer verification for a fee, but these are scams that should be avoided at all costs. Instagram does not work with any third-party providers or agents to provide verification, and paying for verification will not guarantee that you will get approved.
Q: Can I lose my verification badge on Instagram?
A: Yes, you can lose your verification badge on Instagram if you violate the platform’s rules or policies, such as using your profile picture, bio, username, or name field to promote other services; transferring or selling your badge or account; attempting to verify another account through false or misleading means; impersonating another person or entity; etc. You can also lose your verification badge if you change your username without notifying Instagram first.
Q: Can I contact Instagram to request verification?
A: No, you can’t contact Instagram directly to request verification, as they don’t accept any requests via email, phone, or other channels. The only way to request verification is through the official application form in the app settings. If you receive any messages or emails from someone claiming to be from Instagram and offering verification for a fee or in exchange for personal information, ignore them and report them as spam.
Q: Can I appeal if my verification request is denied?
A: No, you can’t appeal if your verification request is denied, as Instagram doesn’t provide any feedback or explanation for their decision. However, you can reapply after 30 days if you think you have improved your account and met the criteria. You can also check out the tips above to increase your chances of getting approved.
Getting verified on Instagram is not impossible, but it is challenging and competitive. You need to have a strong and authentic account that represents a well-known and notable person or brand in your niche or industry. You also need to follow the platform’s rules and guidelines, and apply through the official application form in the app settings. If you follow these steps and tips, you may be able to get the blue checkmark badge on your profile that shows that you are verified on Instagram. Good luck!
