Getting instant recognition in the sea of Instagram is a dream for many. It can be both simple and difficult, but you shouldn't miss this opportunity! In this article, we'll share information about the Instagram verification process. You'll learn who is eligible for this coveted mark, how to apply for verification, and how to increase your chances of success.
The essence of verification on Instagram
In general, verification means checking the authenticity, accuracy, and correctness of information. In the context of Instagram, verification confirms the legitimacy of accounts of famous people, celebrities, and brands. The verification icon appears next to the account name in search results and on the profile.
It's safe to assume that the Instagram checkmark is only granted to accounts with a large audience of thousands or even millions of users. The official guidelines don't specify a specific number of followers, but they do emphasize the importance of "wide visibility." While technically anyone can apply for the Instagram checkmark, not everyone succeeds in being approved.
It's safe to assume that the Instagram checkmark is only granted to accounts with a large audience of thousands or even millions of users. The official guidelines don't specify a specific number of followers, but they do emphasize the importance of "wide visibility." While technically anyone can apply for the Instagram checkmark, not everyone succeeds in being approved.
What are the perks that come with being ticked on Instagram?
The checkmark symbol on Instagram indicates the authenticity of an account and the popularity of an individual or brand. This helps establish an account as official, distinguishing it from fake and fan accounts. Users can more easily identify the real profile of a celebrity or company when this unique icon appears next to their username.
Let's take a simple example: finding Lady Gaga's Instagram account and being sure of its authenticity is a matter of seconds, while for Adam Driver's account such certainty is not always guaranteed.
The checkmark symbol on Instagram indicates the authenticity of an account and the popularity of an individual or brand. This helps establish an account as official, distinguishing it from fake and fan accounts. Users can more easily identify the real profile of a celebrity or company when this unique icon appears next to their username.
Let's take a simple example: finding Lady Gaga's Instagram account and being sure of its authenticity is a matter of seconds, while for Adam Driver's account such certainty is not always guaranteed.
Thus, verification on Instagram provides public figures with additional protection and increased trust, while also providing users with easier search. For influencers, whose primary income depends on the platform, the verification badge becomes a coveted status symbol. The distinctive appeal of this checkmark not only lends the blog a perceived prestige but also facilitates higher advertising rates.
However, despite the importance of verification, it's important to understand that checking the box does not indicate community support. The platform does not prioritize verified accounts in content distribution algorithms. Furthermore, verification does not confirm authority, knowledge, or expertise in a particular field.
Account requirements
To be verified on Instagram, several criteria must be met. First, the account must be authentic, representing a real person, registered business, or organization. It's also important that the account be unique, and the page contain complete information, including a biography, profile picture, and at least one post. Furthermore, the account must represent a well-known person, brand, or organization whose name or title is actively searched for by other users.
However, even meeting all criteria does not guarantee successful verification. The verification process is at the discretion of the platform administration, and refusals may occur even if all requirements are met.
Update of rules
Instagram's verification process has evolved over time. In 2018, it consisted of just one step, requiring account verification by providing a name and a photo of government-issued ID. In 2021, the process became more detailed, allowing users to specify their industry, add nicknames, describe their audience, and provide external links to prove their account's visibility.
How to request account verification on Instagram
To get started, go to your personal profile and tap the menu icon (three horizontal lines) in the upper right corner of the screen. Then, select "Settings," then go to the "Account" section and find the "Request Verification" option. Following these steps will take you to the form you need to fill out.
Your username will appear in the "Username" field. It's important to remember that if your verification request is approved, you won't be able to change your username. You'll then be asked to enter your real first and last name. Next, select the document type and upload a photo of it.
Next, you'll need to confirm that your account has public interest. To do this, select the category that best describes your activity:
- news / media;
- sport;
- government and politics;
- music;
- fashion;
- entertainment;
- digital content creator / blogger / opinion leader;
- gamer;
- international company / brand / organization.
Although some fields are optional, it is recommended that you complete them as well. Describe the audience interested in your account. Include all nicknames and names by which you are known, even in other languages. Also include links to your social media accounts and media mentions. When finished, click "Submit."
You've now completed the Instagram account verification request process. Now all you have to do is wait for your decision. Please note that you should receive a response to your request within 30 days. You'll be able to see it in the "Action" section, where you typically see notifications about likes, comments, and follows.
If your previous application was rejected, you'll be able to reapply after 30 days. For those eager to get a verified checkmark, this time can seem like a long ordeal. An example of this can be seen in the work of Vancouver street artist iHeart. On his Instagram blog, he ironically depicted this waiting period in a piece he titled "30 Days of Grief."
What will help you get a tick?
Re-applying for a verified Instagram badge doesn't in itself increase the likelihood of a positive decision. This approach only makes sense if the user has become more famous and popular during the waiting period.
Secrets to Successfully Obtaining a Verified Instagram Ticket. The tips in this section, while not direct instructions from the platform for the verification process, can still be very helpful. They present aspects that directly impact your brand's development on the social network and indirectly contribute to increasing your chances of obtaining a verified Instagram tick.
Profile design and quality content
Instagram sets a relatively low barrier to entry for those wishing to be verified: a profile with an avatar, a completed bio, and one published post. However, this is clearly far from sufficient for successful online promotion. Engaging and meaningful content will not only attract the attention of the Instagram team during verification but will also help attract new followers and increase conversions.
Attracting "live" subscribers
Instagram's verification guidelines don't explicitly mention follower count. However, given that the checkmark is awarded to public figures and popular brands, it's safe to assume it has some significance.
However, it's worth emphasizing that you shouldn't try to attract more followers through outdated "gray schemes" such as mass following, liking, and using third-party boosting services. Instagram detects such activity as suspicious, and it may result in temporary blocking or deletion of your account.
To stimulate audience growth using safe methods, you can use the recommendations presented in the article "9 Original Ways to Attract Followers on Instagram."
Search query frequency
Users can find your account by searching in the "Explore" section. Instagram tracks and accounts for the number of searches for your name or handle. If people actively search for your profile, it's considered organic interest. While you won't be able to see analytics from this data, you can influence interest in your personal brand or company.
Reports of impostors
A well-known image or successful brand will sooner or later attract scammers who may copy your content or impersonate you. Your job is to monitor these fake accounts and report them. This way, you'll be more likely to attract the attention of the administration and become a more likely candidate for Instagram verification. Ultimately, the goal of verification is to distinguish genuine accounts from fake ones.
The right moment
Your visibility outside of Instagram is essential for account verification. Achievements confirmed by independent media, news portals, or professional communities can play a significant role. It's worth applying for verification when your brand or personality is widely known. Keep in mind that Instagram doesn't consider paid or advertised content as news sources.
What to avoid to get a tick on Instagram
Shady promotion experts may sometimes suggest various ways to circumvent Instagram's rules for getting a checkmark. But we want to warn you about such practices and explain why you should avoid shortcuts.
Buying a checkmark on Instagram
You already know that Instagram verification doesn't require any extra effort. Don't fall for offers to buy a badge—the Instagram checkmark can't be bought or transferred from one account to another. Suspicious scammers may tell stories about friends who have "connections on Instagram and can help." They may also offer to transfer their checkmark, which they "no longer need," to you. They may even create third-party apps and promise a "full refund."
Instagram conducts regular audits both on and off its platform to identify and remove violators. They don't hesitate to delete accounts when they discover that verification was fraudulently obtained or that someone is trading verified accounts.
Direct subscribers to other social networks
In the context of official verification, Instagram discourages accounts created primarily to attract attention to profiles on other social networks. If you're active on YouTube, Telegram, TikTok, or Twitter, be wary of overly obvious links in your profile description or Stories. It's best to include a link to your website, landing pages, or other online resources in your profile header, rather than to other social networks.
The exception is a friendly connection with Facebook. If you already have a blue checkmark on Facebook but don't yet have one on Instagram, it's a good idea to link your accounts and add links to them in your profile descriptions. This helps confirm your authenticity.
Providing false information
Attempting to deceive Instagram administrators when filling out the application will likely lead to negative results. Even if you manage to get approved, providing false or misleading information may result in Instagram permanently deleting both your badge and your profile.
Submitting multiple applications
If you submit multiple applications before the first one is reviewed, all of them will be rejected.
What to avoid to get a tick on Instagram
Shady promotion experts may sometimes suggest various ways to circumvent Instagram's rules for getting a checkmark. But we want to warn you about such practices and explain why you should avoid shortcuts.
Buying a checkmark on Instagram
You already know that Instagram verification doesn't require any extra effort. Don't fall for offers to buy a badge—the Instagram checkmark can't be bought or transferred from one account to another. Suspicious scammers may tell stories about friends who have "connections on Instagram and can help." They may also offer to transfer their checkmark, which they "no longer need," to you. They may even create third-party apps and promise a "full refund."
Instagram conducts regular audits both on and off its platform to identify and remove violators. They don't hesitate to delete accounts when they discover that verification was fraudulently obtained or that someone is trading verified accounts.
Direct subscribers to other social networks
In the context of official verification, Instagram discourages accounts created primarily to attract attention to profiles on other social networks. If you're active on YouTube, Telegram, TikTok, or Twitter, be wary of overly obvious links in your profile description or Stories. It's best to include a link to your website, landing pages, or other online resources in your profile header, rather than to other social networks.
The exception is a friendly connection with Facebook. If you already have a blue checkmark on Facebook but don't yet have one on Instagram, it's a good idea to link your accounts and add links to them in your profile descriptions. This helps confirm your authenticity.
Providing false information
Attempting to deceive Instagram administrators when filling out the application will likely lead to negative results. Even if you manage to get approved, providing false or misleading information may result in Instagram permanently deleting both your badge and your profile.
Submitting multiple applications
If you submit multiple applications before the first one is reviewed, all of them will be rejected.
Maintaining Your Verified Status on Instagram: Tips
Getting a blue checkmark from Instagram is a great achievement, but it's important to know how to maintain your verified and authentic account status. The following tips will help you maintain this status:
- Keep your account public. As mentioned, it's important to keep your account public when applying and while awaiting verification. Once approved, it's also recommended that you keep your profile private.
- Follow the rules. Regardless of whether you check the box, following Instagram's rules and guidelines is mandatory. Violating the terms of use may result in account suspension or deletion. Remember that verification status does not absolve you of the responsibility for ethical and honest behavior within the community. Recovering a verified account after a rule violation is a complex process.
- Ensure account security. Verified accounts attract the attention of attackers who may try to access your account. To minimize risks, enable two-factor authentication. This will add an extra layer of protection and ensure the security of your profile.
It's important to understand that being checked on Instagram isn't just an honorary distinction, but also a commitment to maintaining high standards and account security. Following these tips will help you maintain your status as a verified and trusted user on the platform.
Conclusion
Instagram account verification is not only a prestigious distinction but also a responsibility to the community and the platform. Receiving the blue checkmark gives you the opportunity to confirm your authenticity and credibility, but it also comes with a responsibility to maintain high standards of behavior and safety.
