In the ever-evolving landscape of social media, a blue checkmark next to your Instagram handle signifies more than just popularity. It represents authenticity, credibility, and a certain level of influence. Getting verified on Instagram can open doors to new opportunities, protect your brand from impersonation, and boost your overall visibility. The process might seem daunting, but it boils down to a few key steps that, when followed diligently, can significantly increase your chances of achieving that coveted blue badge. This guide will walk you through 3 simple steps to get verified on Instagram.
Step 1: Meet the Basic Requirements
Before diving into the application process, it’s crucial to ensure you meet Instagram’s basic requirements for verification. These requirements are non-negotiable, and failing to meet them will result in automatic rejection. These requirements are outlined in Instagram’s Help Center, but are explained below:
- Authentic: Your account must represent a real person, registered business, or entity. Fan accounts, meme pages, and pet profiles are generally not eligible unless they represent a well-known brand or individual.
- Unique: Your account must be the unique presence of the person or business it represents. Only one account per person or business can be verified, with exceptions for language-specific accounts.
- Complete: Your profile must be public and have a complete bio, profile picture, and at least one post. A profile with missing information or private settings will not be considered.
- Notable: Your account must represent a well-known, highly searched-for person, brand, or entity. This is where things get subjective, but generally, you need to be featured in multiple news sources to be considered notable.
Step 2: Gather Your Supporting Documentation
Once you’ve confirmed you meet the basic requirements, the next step is to gather supporting documentation to prove your authenticity and notability. The specific documents required will depend on whether you’re applying as an individual or a business:
For Individuals:
- A government-issued photo ID, such as a driver’s license, passport, or national identity card.
For Businesses:
- A copy of your business license, tax filings, or articles of incorporation.
In addition to these required documents, it’s also helpful to gather any press coverage, articles, or other mentions of you or your business in reputable news sources. This will help demonstrate your notability and increase your chances of getting verified.
Step 3: Submit Your Verification Request
With your documentation in hand, you’re ready to submit your verification request through the Instagram app. Follow these steps:
- Go to your profile and tap the three horizontal lines in the top right corner.
- Tap “Settings.”
- Tap “Account.”
- Tap “Request Verification.”
- Fill out the form with your full name, “Known As” name (the name people know you or your business by), category (e.g., news/media, sports, music), and upload your required documentation.
- In the “Also known as” section, list other names you or your business are known by.
- In the “Links” section, provide up to five links to news articles, social media profiles, or other relevant sources that support your notability. Do not include paid or promotional content.
- Tap “Send.”
After submitting your request, you’ll receive a notification from Instagram within 30 days letting you know whether your application was approved or denied. If denied, you can reapply after 30 days. Remember to continue building your online presence and generating press coverage in the meantime.
FAQ: Instagram Verification
Q: How long does it take to get verified on Instagram?
A: Instagram states that you’ll receive a notification within 30 days of submitting your application.
Q: What happens if my verification request is denied?
A: If your request is denied, you can reapply after 30 days. Use this time to improve your online presence and gather more supporting documentation.
Q: Does paying for Instagram verification guarantee approval?
A: No. Purchasing a blue tick does not guarantee verification. Your account still needs to meet the Instagram’s guidelines.
Q: Is Instagram Verification free?
A: Applying for verification on Instagram is free. However, you might need to invest time and resources into building your online presence and generating press coverage.
Getting verified on Instagram isn’t a guarantee of success, but it’s a valuable asset for anyone looking to establish a strong and credible presence on the platform. By following these simple steps and consistently working to build your online presence, you can significantly increase your chances of achieving that coveted blue checkmark. In conclusion, the path to Instagram verification requires careful attention to detail and a commitment to building a legitimate and notable presence.
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