Wondering how to get verified on Instagram? There’s a lot more to it than just clicking on a link. But we’re here to walk you through it. It’s not exactly easy to stand out on Instagram. After all, there are more than 1 billion active users on the platform.
There’s a decent chance that there’s someone with your exact name (or brand name) on the platform. So, how can you stand out from impostors and get yourself noticed?
By getting the coveted blue checkmark that means you’re verified on Instagram. It lets people know that you’re legit and that you have value to an audience. But if it were easy, everyone would do it. And it would lose most of its meaning.
What does Instagram verification mean?
Having the blue verification checkmark badge added to your Instagram account means that you’re considered someone of interest on the social platform.
In Instagram’s own words, verification signals “authenticity and notability.” It also means that you’ve cleared something of a high bar. The verified badge means that Instagram considers an account to “represent a well-known, highly searched-for person, brand or entity.”
When you see the blue check, Instagram wants you to know you’re following an authentic account. Not a fan account or a fake one.
But it’s also important to know that being verified doesn’t equal an endorsement from Instagram. It also doesn’t mean that your content will show up more on the platform than posts from non-verified accounts.
See Also: How to Get More Followers on Instagram
Why is Instagram verification important?
As mentioned above, the main reason that Instagram verification is important is to distinguish accounts that Instagram deems valuable in the public eye from those that aren’t.
Essentially, Instagram verification allows users to easily find the accounts they’re more likely to be looking for. Sometimes, that means the platform has to act fairly quickly as it seeks to verify accounts that might have recently gone viral or are a big part of what people in their community are talking about.
Who is eligible to be Instagram verified?
Anyone! Well, kind of.
Technically, anyone and everyone with:
- A public account
- A bio
- A profile photo
- At least one post
… can apply to be Instagram verified.
There are no cut and dried regulations you must hit to get verified. Facebook states — somewhat enigmatically — that accounts applying for verification must be authentic, complete, unique and notable. There is no defined minimum number of followers an account has to have to apply.
But Instagram is looking for people and brands that are highly sought after — on social media and in real life.
How to Apply for Instagram Verification
Feel like trying your luck? Here’s an easy-to-follow guide to apply to be verified on Instagram.
Step 1: Log in to your account and go to settings
Log into your account, visit your profile page, and open the drop-down menu in the top right corner. From there, navigate to Settings.
Step 2: Navigate to Request Verification
Hit Account and then Request Verification.
Step 3: Fill out the application
Finally, all that’s left is to fill out the application and send it.
Note: Lying about personal details or falsifying proof can lead to losing your badge or even getting your account deleted. Be honest.
And never use a third-party service to apply for verification. In all likelihood, this is a scam.
Make sure you also consider these things when filling out each field:
- Full Name: If you use your original name for your Instagram account, your full name is enough. If it’s a business account, you need the full name of the owner or an employee whose name appears on your official business documents. It must be their full name, as it appears on official identification.
- Known as: For personal accounts, you should use a common alias or nickname. Your followers may know you by your initials rather than your full last name. For business accounts, just type your company name.
- Category: Choose the category that makes the most sense for your account. If it’s a business account and no other categories fit, choose business/brand, not other.
Once you’ve filled everything out and chosen your category, you need to upload a photocopy of your ID.
Choose the file, upload it, and your application is ready to send. Click the send button to finalize your application.
All that’s left to do is wait. There is no definitive deadline on when Instagram will definitely respond to you. But if you get rejected, you won’t be able to apply again for 30 days.
