What Does Instagram Verification Mean?

Can we get the obvious out of the way first? What exactly does it mean to Instagram verified?

Essentially, Instagram verification means that an account is an authentic representation of a notable person, public figure, celebrity, or global brand. Put more plainly, when you see that blue check, you know that you are looking at a verified Instagram account and not a fan page or a page unauthorized by a public figure.

Blue checks, or Instagram verification badges, are pretty scarce compared to the one billion users on the platform. Because of this, they represent a high level of status or prestige, which makes them extremely covetable. Why, you ask? Well, because of the limitless opportunities they provide.

Instagram verification can and does open doors for your personal brand and/or your business. This social media validation brings potential partners, paid opportunities, and networking opportunities to your doorstep. And because Instagram holds the key to unlocking such limitless opportunities, getting verified on Instagram is an extremely valuable marketing and bargaining tool.

But how does it all work? What’s the process?

How to Request Instagram Verification

Honest truth? We can’t tell you exactly how to get verified on Instagram. No one can. Well, not anyone that doesn’t work for Instagram.  

Much like the Instagram algorithm or even the rumored shadowban, only pieces of the puzzle are available, not the entire picture. What we can do is give you the puzzle pieces we do have and help guide you through the parts of the process we do know. That said, let’s start with requesting Instagram verification.

The Instagram verification process is relatively simple. Here’s a quick breakdown of how to apply:

• Log into your account, navigate to your profile page, and tap on the “Settings” icon

• From the “Settings” menu, navigate to the “Account” tab

• Once you have tapped on the “Account” tab, find “Request Verification”

• Fill out the required fields and click send to being the review process

Once you’ve applied, there is no defined timeline for the approval notification. However, if your request is denied, you will be required to wait 30 days before you can re-apply.

Instagram Verification Eligibility Requirements

Now the first question you might ask yourself before applying is, “am I eligible for Instagram verification?” And the answer is most users are eligible for verification. Here is what Instagram deems as its eligibility requirements for verification:

• Authentic: Your account must represent a real person, registered business, or entity.

• Unique: Your account must be the unique presence of the person or business it represents. Only one account per person or business may be verified, with exceptions for language-specific accounts. We don't verify general interest accounts (example: @puppymemes).

• Complete: Your account must be public and have a bio, profile photo and at least one post. Your profile can't contain "add me" links to other social media services.

Also, Instagram keeps in mind how well-known or highly searchable the person, brand, or entity is and reviews the accounts that are featured in multiples news sources. Note: Instagram doesn't consider paid or promotional content or news sources for review when deeming an Instagram account as verification eligible.  

Tips on Getting Instagram Verified

Although Instagram is notoriously picky when it comes to the accounts they choose to verify, there are a few things you can do to better your chances.

Sure, there’s no sure-fire way to get verified on Instagram, but there are certainly a few best practices that will inch you closer towards Instagram verification.

Increase Your Following - This might seem like an oversimplification but increasing your following will 1000% help your chances of getting verified. More followers mean your account has a higher stature and increases the odds of Instagram recognizing you as a public figure. So use all the tools and tricks at your disposal to increase your follower account before you apply for verification.

Hire a Publicist and/or an Agency - If you are on the brink of a social media breakout, and have the means to do so, hiring a publicist or an agency to back your claim for Instagram verification is a great option. Your representation should have access to Facebook’s Media Partner Support tools. With access, your rep can request verification through an industry-only channel.  

Stay Active - An active and engaged account has a much better chance of verification that even a popular account that lacks activity. As we know, Instagram places a large emphasis on posting and posting often. You can also help your chances by using Reels, going Live, leveraging Guides, and creating great IGTV content.

Monitor Imposter Accounts - Did you ever think a humble brag might help you get verified? It might! Imposter accounts on Instagram indicate to the platform that you are, well, a big deal. But don’t just take our word for it, Instagram has implied the same: “accounts representing well-known figures and brands are verified because they have a high likelihood of being impersonated.”

Build Your Other Social Profiles - An unsung hero to your cause for verification is building your following across all social media platforms. Facebook, Twitter, YouTube, and Pinterest followings all play a role in the Instagram verification process. Creating great content across all platforms raises your profile.

Strike While the Iron is Hot - When you apply for verification, it won’t hurt if your name is in the news. Maybe you just had an influencer partnership picked up by a publication. Or your restaurant just got a glowing review in a major publication. Those are both ideal times to apply for that blue check. So if you’re in the news or have been newsworthy in the not so distant past, verification could be in your future.

Make no mistake about it, Instagram verification can be valuable beyond measure. It is proven to boost your engagement levels, conversion rates, and partnership opportunities.

Verification makes you a trusted source on Instagram. So why not give it a shot and apply? Follow the steps above and cross your fingers and toes for good luck.