What To Know
- This guide will walk you through the process of getting verified on Instagram, giving you a clear understanding of the requirements, application process, and tips for increasing your chances of success.
- The blue verification badge is a visual confirmation that an account is authentic and represents a real person, business, or brand.
- Your account must be of public interest, meaning it should have a significant following and a noticeable presence in the real world.
The blue verification badge on Instagram is more than just a pretty tick. It’s a symbol of authenticity, credibility, and reach. For businesses, influencers, and public figures, it can be a game-changer, boosting brand recognition and attracting a wider audience. But how do you get your hands on this coveted status?
This guide will walk you through the process of getting verified on Instagram, giving you a clear understanding of the requirements, application process, and tips for increasing your chances of success.
Understanding Instagram Verification
Before diving into the specifics, let’s clarify what Instagram verification is and why it matters:
- What is it? The blue verification badge is a visual confirmation that an account is authentic and represents a real person, business, or brand.
- Why is it important? Verification helps users distinguish genuine accounts from impersonators. It also adds a layer of trust and credibility, making your account stand out in a crowded digital landscape.
- Who qualifies? Verification is typically granted to accounts that are:
- Public figures: Celebrities, politicians, athletes, etc.
- Businesses: Established brands with a significant online presence.
- Organizations: Non-profits, government agencies, etc.
How to Apply for Verification on Instagram
Instagram has a straightforward application process for verification. Here’s a step-by-step guide:
1. Open your profile: Go to your Instagram profile and tap on the three horizontal lines in the top right corner.
2. Select “Settings”: Scroll down and tap on “Settings”.
3. Go to “Account”: Under “Settings,” tap on “Account.”
4. Find “Request Verification“: Scroll down and tap on “Request Verification.”
5. Enter your information: You’ll be asked to provide your full name, username, and the category of your account (e.g., business, public figure, etc.).
6. Upload a photo of your ID: You’ll need to upload a photo of your government-issued ID (passport, driver’s license, etc.) for verification purposes.
7. Submit your request: Review your information, agree to the terms and conditions, and submit your request.
Key Factors Influencing Verification Approval
While the application process is simple, getting verified is not guaranteed. Instagram considers several factors when reviewing requests:
- Authenticity: Your account must represent a real person, business, or organization.
- Completeness: Your profile should be fully filled out with accurate information, including a bio, profile picture, and contact details.
- Public interest: Your account must be of public interest, meaning it should have a significant following and a noticeable presence in the real world.
- Uniqueness: You should be the only account representing your brand or entity.
- Activity: Your account should be active and engaging with its followers.
- Compliance: You must adhere to Instagram’s Community Guidelines and Terms of Service.
Tips to Increase Your Chances of Verification
While you can’t control Instagram‘s decision, you can take steps to strengthen your application:
- Build a strong online presence: Focus on creating high-quality content, engaging with your audience, and growing your follower count.
- Complete your profile: Ensure all sections of your profile are filled out accurately and comprehensively.
- Use your real name: Use your legal name or the official name of your business or organization.
- Be active on other platforms: Having a strong presence on other social media platforms can demonstrate your legitimacy.
- Promote your account: Share your account link on other websites and social media platforms.
- Avoid impersonation: Don’t create multiple accounts or use your username for multiple entities.
What Happens After You Submit Your Request?
Once you submit your verification request, Instagram will review it and notify you of their decision. This process can take several weeks or even months, so be patient. If your request is approved, you’ll see the blue verification badge appear next to your username on your profile.
What if You Get Rejected?
If your request is denied, you’ll receive a notification explaining the reason. Common reasons for rejection include:
- Insufficient public interest: Your account may not have enough followers or a significant enough online presence.
- Incomplete information: Your profile may be missing crucial information or contain inaccuracies.
- Multiple accounts: You may have multiple accounts representing the same entity.
- Violation of Community Guidelines: Your account may have violated Instagram’s terms of service.
If your request is rejected, you can resubmit it after addressing the issues identified by Instagram.
The Value of Verification: Why It Matters
The blue verification badge offers several benefits:
- Increased trust and credibility: It signals authenticity and helps users differentiate your account from fake accounts.
- Enhanced visibility: Your account is more likely to appear in search results and recommendations.
- Improved brand recognition: The blue badge helps establish your brand and increases its recognition.
- Greater reach: You can potentially reach a wider audience and attract new followers.
- Protection from impersonation: Verification makes it harder for others to impersonate your account.
Final Thoughts: The Journey to Verification
Getting verified on Instagram takes effort and consistency. It’s not just about submitting a request; it’s about building a strong online presence, demonstrating authenticity, and adhering to Instagram’s guidelines. By focusing on building a valuable account and engaging with your audience, you can increase your chances of getting verified and reaping the benefits of this coveted status.
Answers to Your Most Common Questions
1. Can I buy verification?
No, Instagram does not allow you to purchase verification. The badge is awarded based on merit and adherence to their guidelines.
2. What if I have a temporary ID?
Instagram generally requires a government-issued ID that is valid and not expired. If you have a temporary ID, you may need to wait until you have a permanent one to apply.
3. Can I submit a verification request for a fan page or a parody account?
No, Instagram does not verify fan pages or parody accounts. Verification is reserved for authentic accounts representing real people, businesses, or organizations.
4. What happens if I change my username after getting verified?
If you change your username after getting verified, the blue badge will be removed. You’ll need to reapply for verification using your new username.
5. Is there a fee to apply for verification?
No, there is no fee to apply for verification on Instagram. The process is completely free.
