How to Get Verified on Instagram: A Step-by-Step Guide

How to Get Verified on Instagram: A Step-by-Step Guide

Getting verified on Instagram is a major goal for influencers, brands, and public figures. The blue checkmark next to your username signals authenticity and credibility, helping you stand out from fake accounts and boosting your online presence. However, Instagram doesn’t hand out verification badges easily. The process requires meeting specific criteria and following certain steps. This guide will help you understand how to increase your chances of getting verified on Instagram.

What Does Instagram Verification Mean?

Instagram verification is a process that confirms an account’s authenticity. Verified accounts receive a blue checkmark beside their username, indicating that Instagram has confirmed the account as legitimate. This badge is typically reserved for public figures, celebrities, brands, influencers, and businesses that are at risk of impersonation.

The verification badge provides several benefits, such as:

  • Increased credibility and trust
  • Higher visibility in search results
  • Protection against impersonation
  • Improved brand reputation

Who Can Get Verified on Instagram?

Instagram has specific criteria for verification. While anyone can apply, only accounts that meet the following requirements have a chance of approval:

  • Authenticity – Your account must represent a real person, registered business, or brand. Fake accounts or fan pages will not be verified.
  • Uniqueness – Instagram only verifies one account per person or business (except for language-specific accounts). Generic accounts or meme pages are not eligible.
  • Completeness – Your account must be public, have a profile picture, and include a bio. Additionally, you need to have at least one post.
  • Notability – Your account must represent a well-known, highly searched-for person, brand, or entity. Instagram typically verifies accounts that appear in multiple news sources.

Step-by-Step Guide to Get Verified on Instagram

1. Optimize Your Instagram Profile

Before applying for verification, make sure your profile is complete and professional. Here’s what you should do:

  • Set your profile to public.
  • Use a clear, high-quality profile picture.
  • Write a compelling bio that represents your brand or personality.
  • Add a link to your official website or other verified social media accounts.

2. Build a Strong Online Presence

Instagram looks for accounts that have a strong digital footprint. If your name appears in major news publications, blogs, or interviews, your chances of verification increase. Here’s how to build credibility:

  • Get featured in reputable news articles and blogs.
  • Collaborate with influencers and brands to increase your reach.
  • Engage actively on other social media platforms like Twitter, YouTube, and LinkedIn.

3. Grow Your Followers and Engagement

While follower count is not the only factor in getting verified, a large and engaged audience improves your credibility. Focus on:

  • Posting high-quality content consistently.
  • Using relevant hashtags to reach a broader audience.
  • Engaging with your followers through comments, stories, and live videos.

4. Avoid Fake Followers and Engagement Tricks

Instagram discourages accounts that use fake followers or bots. If you’ve purchased followers or engagement, it may reduce your chances of verification. Instead, focus on organic growth through quality content and real interactions.

5. Apply for Verification on Instagram

Once you’ve built a strong presence, follow these steps to apply for verification:

  1. Open Instagram and go to your profile.
  2. Tap the menu (three lines) in the top right corner.
  3. Select Settings and Privacy > Account > Request Verification.
  4. Fill out the application form by providing:
    • Your full name (or business name)
    • A copy of your government-issued ID or business documents
    • Your category (e.g., music, fashion, sports, business)
    • Links to articles or other online references proving your notability
  5. Submit your request and wait for Instagram’s response.

6. Wait for Instagram’s Decision

Instagram will review your application and notify you of the decision within a few days or weeks. If approved, the blue checkmark will appear next to your username. If denied, you can reapply after 30 days.

What to Do If Your Verification Request is Denied

If Instagram denies your request, don’t be discouraged. Here’s what you can do:

  • Improve your online presence by getting featured in more news outlets.
  • Continue building engagement and increasing your followers.
  • Avoid making multiple verification requests in a short period.
  • Reapply after 30 days with updated proof of notability.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

To improve your chances of verification, avoid these common mistakes:

  • Providing false information in your application
  • Applying with an incomplete or inactive profile
  • Using fake engagement tactics, like buying followers or likes
  • Not having any media coverage or online references

Final Thoughts

Getting verified on Instagram is not just about having a large following—it’s about being a recognized and credible public figure, brand, or business. Focus on building a strong presence, gaining media recognition, and maintaining an active and authentic account. If you follow the right steps and meet Instagram’s criteria, you’ll increase your chances of securing the coveted blue checkmark.

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