How to Get Verified on Instagram: The Complete Guide

That coveted blue verified badge on Instagram signifies an authentic, noteworthy public figure, brand or entity Instagram verifies accounts that represent highly searched for, influential people, brands and organizations

So how can you get that blue checkmark and enjoy the benefits that come with Instagram verification?

This comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know to get verified on Instagram, from eligibility criteria to the step-by-step application process.

Why Get Verified on Instagram?

Here are some of the key advantages that come with getting verified:

• Increased Visibility and Reach: The verification badge makes your content stand out in search and invites new followers. You’ll likely see increased engagement and exposure.

• Legitimacy and Trust: The blue check mark signals to users that you are the authentic source behind the account. This builds credibility and consumer confidence.

• Brand Partnerships: Verified accounts attract more lucrative brand partnership and influencer marketing opportunities.

• Exclusive Features: Verified accounts gain access to special features like stickers, auto-generated captions and profile moderation.

• Prioritized Support: Verified users get quicker responses and more individualized support from Instagram’s help center.

• Professional Status: Verification elevates your status as an expert or influencer in your field and industry.

Clearly, getting that blue badge can significantly impact your Instagram presence and open new doors. But not all accounts meet the criteria for verification.

Instagram Verification Requirements

Instagram has strict standards for verifying accounts. You must satisfy the following eligibility criteria:

• Authenticity – You must represent the real person, brand or entity behind the account.

• Notability – Your account must be highly searched for, well known, or have news value. Verification is not for personal accounts.

• Uniqueness – You cannot have a name or likeness shared by many other accounts. Your identity must be unambiguous.

• Completeness – Your bio must be complete. Business accounts must have a website listed.

• Activity – You must actively post content and engage with your audience to show the account is currently maintained.

In addition, Instagram looks for accounts that:

• Have a large audience or high follower count
• Are linked to from news articles around the web
• Are verified on other major platforms like Facebook or Twitter
• Represent well-known personalities, global brands, or media publishers

Essentially, verification is reserved for accounts that would cause confusion or misrepresentation if not designated as official.

How to Apply for Verification on Instagram

If you meet the criteria outlined above, follow these steps to request verification:

1. Go to Your Profile

In the Instagram app, tap your profile picture in the bottom right. Then tap the three line menu button in the top right corner.

2. Select Account Settings

This will open your account options. Tap “Request Verification” underneath your username and bio.

3. Choose a Verification Category

Specify if you are a celebrity, public figure, brand, media company or organization.

4. Fill Out the Request Form

Provide details on why your account should be verified. Upload any relevant articles, links or documents that demonstrate your notability.

5. Double Check Your Profile

Before submitting, ensure your bio is complete and website (if applicable) is listed. Remove any emojis or non-standard formatting.

6. Submit Your Request

Instagram will review your application and get back to you if approved. This may take a few weeks. If denied, you can reapply after 30 days.

7. Display Your Blue Badge

Once verified, Instagram will place a blue verification badge next to your username. Your verified status carries over to any linked Facebook accounts.

That’s it! With an eligible account and a thoughtful, thorough application, hopefully you’ll join the coveted community of verified Instagrammers.

Tips to Improve Your Odds of Verification

Here are some expert tips to boost your chances during the verification process:

• Highlight Notability – Emphasize in your request why you or your brand are highly searched for and noteworthy. Provide evidence.

• Increase Followers – Having a larger audience improves eligibility. Aim for at least 15,000 engaged followers.

• Link to Website – Brand accounts should have a professional website listed in the bio.

• Clean Up Your Profile – Remove odd usernames, emojis, or non-standard text formatting.

• Get Press Mentions – Being featured across media demonstrates notability. List any news or magazine coverage.

• Authenticate Your Identity – Prove you represent the real person or brand behind the account.

• Post Consistently – Show you actively maintain your account with regular, engaging content.

• Link Other Accounts – Connect Facebook, Twitter, YouTube channels to show your cross-platform authority.

• Be Patient – The review process can take weeks. Follow up if it goes past a month.

With persistence and careful attention to these tips, your account can get that coveted blue checkmark!

Why Verification Requests Get Rejected

If your request gets denied, here are some potential reasons why:

• Your account is too new or doesn’t have enough followers yet.

• You don’t represent a highly searched for real public figure, brand, or organization.

• Your name or brand is too common or creates confusion with other accounts.

• Your bio lacks required information like a website or location.

• You have an inactive account with infrequent posts.

• Your request lacked sufficient evidence of notability and authenticity.

• Your account has been banned or disabled in the past.

Don’t get discouraged if you get rejected at first! Work on strengthening your account and request again after 30 days. Consistently producing content, growing your audience, and linking to press coverage or websites will help.

What to Do Once You’re Verified

Congratulations, your account is now verified! To leverage your new status:

• Thank your followers and announce the news.

• Add “Verified on Instagram” to your bio.

• Respond to all new comments and messages promptly.

• Consider doing an Instagram Live or AMA to engage with your growing audience.

• Partner with relevant brands or influencers to create content.

• Post Instagram Reels regularly to maximize visibility in Explore.

• Give back by engaging with your niche community, replying to questions, and mentoring aspiring creators in your field.

Getting verified is an amazing milestone, but the work doesn’t stop there. Your future content and community engagement will determine whether your account retains its verified status.

You’re on Your Way to a Verified Badge!

A blue verification badge builds authority and opens up new opportunities on Instagram. While the verification process is highly selective, accounts that meet the eligibility criteria and submit a compelling application have a strong chance of approval. Work towards building an engaged audience, establishing notability, and crafting an airtight request. With persistence and strategic preparation, your Instagram account can earn its coveted verified checkmark.