Instagram verified status is on every marketer’s wishlist, but it can be so confusing to figure out how to get that little blue check for yourself! If you’ve been wondering how to get verified on Instagram, search no further. We’ve got the answers you need.
We’ve analyzed, experimented and researched the best ways to get verified on Instagram – and translated them into seven simple steps and a ton of powerhouse tips to get a blue badge on your profile.
In this article, we’re going over common questions like what Instagram verified means, why you want an Instagram verified badge, and how to apply for verification. Plus, we’ve got quick tips to improve your odds.
Ready to get that prestigious blue seal on Instagram yourself? Let’s dive in! ♀️
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What is a Verified Badge on Instagram?
You’ve seen the little blue checkmark next to some of your favorite IG account names. This blue symbol ( a seal with a check in the center) means that the account is officially verified by Instagram. People, brands, and businesses with the Instagram verified badge are authentic.
The blue badge is given to notable people and brands on Instagram. It’s really important to avoid imposter accounts and copycats!
Fake accounts, copycats and impersonators target well-known and influential accounts on social media. These imposters use their likeness to trick unwary followers. Not cool!
At best, impersonators are annoying. At worst, they negatively affect your brand and image on social media.
That’s why the Instagram verified badge was created. The handy blue badge is a certification of authenticity on Instagram. It shows followers that the person or brand behind the account is real and can be trusted.
What is the Value of a Blue Badge on Instagram?
Let’s be real. The little blue tick is important for verifying real Instagram accounts, but it’s also a status symbol. After all, if you’ve earned a blue badge on Instagram you must be somebody “notable”, right?
That’s why getting Instagram verified is a major milestone for growing accounts. However, if you’re wondering who exactly gets a verified profile on Instagram, the platform leaves the exact requirements a little vague.
Can I Get Verified on Instagram?
The short answer is maybe. It’s easy to figure out though, anyone can apply now! Here’s why:
Instagram introduced a public verified account application in August 2018, to demystify the process and curb the secret black market for blue checks.
The application for Instagram verification is now public. Before the application went live, no one really knew what the criteria was.
Here are the updated requirements from Instagram in 2021. We’ll get into the nitty gritty details, but the basics are that you need to be authentic, unique, complete, and notable.
Never Try to Buy Your Verification Badge
Never trust that friend that tells you he has another “friend” that works for Instagram and can get your badge for only a few dollars. Also, never trust those people sending you DMs saying how easy it is to get your Instagram account verified and asking you to pay them to take care of the process.
Instagram scammers know that people and businesses are feeling exaggerated about the blue check. Also, be aware that some are very effective at looking legitimate. Keep in mind that Instagram will never request or contact you for payment.
In addition, it is very important to always play the game by the rules. Ignoring Instagram’s Terms of Service and Community Guidelines will suspend or delete your account, but great power comes with great responsibility. The verification process needs to be ethical and genuine.
How to Get Verified on Instagram Step-By-Step
The application process for Instagram verification is really easy. You just need to follow these steps:
1. Visit your profile and tap the Menu button in the top right corner
2. Tap the Settings icon (it looks like a little gear)
3. Tap the Account icon
4. Tap Request Verification near the bottom
5. Fill out your full name, professional name, and category
6. Upload a picture of your ID or business documents
7. Click Send when your application is complete!
Make sure to read the section where you attach your ID! You’ll need a government ID that clearly states your name and date of birth (like a driver’s license, passport or national ID), or business documents like tax filings or a utility bill if you’re requesting verification for a business or brand.
And that’s it!
Instagram will let you know once they’ve reviewed your request. My official reply came three days after I applied.
Since I’m “Authentic,” “Unique,” and have a “Complete” profile, the issue seems to be that I’m not “Notable” enough. Oh well. It was worth a try!
In fact, the “Notable” requirement is where most accounts usually don’t pass muster – yet! Don’t worry, we have some tips to help!
Instagram verification requirements
Here are the requirements from Instagram to get your account verified:
- Adhere to Instagram’s Terms of Service and Community Guidelines
- Be authentic
– To qualify, you have to be who you say you are, whether your account represents a person, a business or a brand!
- Be unique –
Only one account per person or business can be verified (unless your account is language-specific). Fan accounts, meme accounts, and feature accounts aren’t verified.
- Be complete
– Since the blue badge is reserved for public figures and entities, you can’t have a private profile. Your profile must also be complete, meaning you have a bio, profile photo and at least one post in your feed.
- Be notable
– To grab the Instagram blue check for yourself, your account has to represent a well-known, highly searched for brand, person or business.
So, now to the million-dollar questions…
FAQs on Instagram Verification
Here’s an FAQ of the questions we get asked a lot about getting Instagram verified!
Do I have a business account to get Instagram verified?
The application is available to all Instagram account types. This includes Personal accounts, Creator accounts, and Business accounts.
Is the verification application free?
The application for Instagram verification is free! You can find it under your Settings in your Instagram app, so there’s no need to use a third-party app or program to apply.
If you’re asked to pay for Instagram verification, it’s a scam! ♀️
How many followers do I need to get verified on Instagram?
This is one of the most frequently asked questions. Sadly, Instagram has never announced an official number of followers required for Instagram verification, and there is no data for the lowest followers verified Instagram account.
However, those with the most followers and greatest reach do have the most to lose, so there likely is some (unspecified) threshold of followers or reach required to be accepted.
That said, there is no harm in applying – and a lot you could gain if you’re approved. The application is quick and easy, so what do you have to lose?
The rest of us should just keep on building our followers and reach until we qualify as well!
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Can Tailwind help me get verified?
No, we wish we could help, but can’t get you verified. Even though Tailwind is a trusted Instagram Partner ♀️, that just means Instagram recognizes our app as being effective and helpful for growing business on Instagram. Only Instagram can verify your account.
However, we can help you grow your followers using our platform of Instagram tools. Our Create tool can help you build dozens of posts in seconds. We also have a Smart.bio tool, hashtag finder, and scheduling! All of these offer a free trial, and you can have access to all the features together with Tailwind Pro.
What are the benefits of getting verified on Instagram?
Is Instagram verification worth applying for? Does the coveted blue badge really mean anything besides bragging rights?
Absolutely. Getting verified on Instagram has a positive effect on your marketing efforts on Instagram. Here’s are some of the perks of having a blue check:
- Getting verified on Instagram builds trust – The blue check reassures your followers that you’re real and your account can be trusted.
- You have access to Instagram Link in Stories – Verified accounts were the first to be able to add links to their Instagram Stories. Without verification, you’ll need at least 10,000 followers to access the feature.
- It builds brand awareness – As we mentioned before, the blue check tells the world that you’re somebody. With a blue check, people are going to be buzzing to know who you are and what you’re about!
- Increased attention from the blue badge – With all the buzz and curiosity about your new blue checkmark, you’ll be able to turn that attention into engagement, conversions and maybe even sales!
But wait, don’t lose hope of ever driving traffic from Instagram if you’re aren’t to 10K yet and can’t get verified.
An advanced link in bio tool like Smart.bio by Tailwind can help you drive traffic to your blog posts and products easily with a FREE customizable landing page!
How Long Does it Take to Get Verified on Instagram?
Like we shared above, the actual process for Instagram to verify you is fairly short, about 2-3 weeks. However, if you need to grow your follower base and improve your notability, that can take a lot longer.
Alright, we’ve got the frequently asked questions out of the way… let’s talk about some actionable tips to help you get verified!
How to Become More “Notable” On Instagram
1. Complete Your Instagram Bio
One of the core requirements of Instagram verification is a complete Instagram profile. Make sure your bio is completely filled out, includes a profile photo and you have at least one post on our account.
For a step-by-step peek at how to make a perfect bio, read “6 Steps to Create a Perfectly Branded Bio.” If you are running out of ideas for your Bio, check this article with 220+ Instagram Bio ideas.
2.Work On Getting Published
The main disqualifier for people hoping to get their Instagram accounts verified is not being newsworthy. Each Instagram account is verified manually by an Instagram employee, who performs a check for multiple news sources.
Your account must represent a well-known, highly searched for person, brand or entity. We review accounts that are featured in multiple news sources, and we don’t consider paid or promotional content as sources for review.
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Work on getting your name in the news by sending out press releases, media kits and connecting with local news agencies. Once you’ve had your name in the media a few times, reach out to larger publications for more visibility!
To make your news coverage easy to find, look into keeping a press section organized on your website.
3. Groom Your Web Presence to Be Highly Searchable
If your account is solely based on Instagram, chances are you won’t get verified. However, you can establish a notable presence and secure the Instagram blue check by making sure you dominate the search around your name!
Optimize your web page, other social media profiles to appear highly in web search. Create even more search results by guest posting on other sites and seeking mentions on similar blogs, podcasts, and video!
Implement significant optimization strategies for your social media accounts, this will have a positive impact on the credibility of your account when the verification process begins.
4. Keep Growing Your Instagram Following
While there’s no required number of followers to be Instagram verified, you’ll definitely seem more notable with a higher number of followers.
To increase your odds of getting a blue checkmark next to your name, keep on building your reach and growing your engaged followers.
Tailwind for Instagram has a ton of resources to help you do just that as we mentioned. Try Tailwind for free!
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Will you request verification? Have you been verified? Let us know in the comments!
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