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Article - How To Get Verified On Instagram

Written By: Evaldas
Published on: September 23, 2024

Introduction to Instagram Verification

Instagram verification is the process of obtaining the iconic blue checkmark that appears next to a user's profile name. This badge signifies that the account is authentic and belongs to a notable public figure, celebrity, or global brand. The significance of this verification lies in its ability to establish credibility and enhance visibility on the platform.

Being verified on Instagram comes with several benefits:

Increased Trust: Users are more likely to trust and follow accounts that have the verification badge.
Higher Engagement: Verified accounts often experience higher engagement rates due to enhanced visibility in search results and recommendations.
Brand Protection: Verification helps protect your brand from impersonators and fake accounts.

Did you know that less than 1% of Instagram accounts are verified? This elite status not only sets you apart but also significantly boosts your social media presence. Ready to join the ranks of the verified? Let's dive into the specifics of how you can achieve this coveted badge.

Eligibility Requirements for Verification

Before you can flaunt that blue checkmark on Instagram, your account must meet certain eligibility criteria. Instagram takes this verification process seriously to ensure only authentic and notable accounts are verified. Below are the key requirements:

Authenticity: Your account must represent a real person, registered business, or entity. Instagram will require you to submit official documentation, such as a government-issued ID or business verification documents.
Uniqueness: Only one account per person or business can be verified, with exceptions for language-specific accounts. General interest accounts (e.g., meme pages) are not eligible.
Completeness: Your profile must be public and fully completed, including a profile photo, bio, and at least one post. Ensure there are no 'Add me' links to other social media services in your profile.
Notability: Your account must represent a well-known, highly searched for person, brand, or entity. Instagram looks for accounts that are featured in multiple news sources. Paid or promotional content does not count.

To give you a clear idea, here are some examples of what constitutes a notable account:

Example	Notable Criteria
@natgeo	Widely recognized media brand with global reach.
@cristiano	Famous athlete with significant public interest and media coverage.
@shopify	Established business with a substantial online presence and media mentions.

Meeting these criteria is the first step toward getting verified on Instagram. With your profile in top shape, you're better positioned to join the elite group of verified accounts.

Step-by-Step Guide to Requesting Verification

Getting verified on Instagram may seem daunting, but with the right approach, it's a straightforward process. Follow this detailed, step-by-step guide to request verification and increase your chances of success:

Open Instagram: Launch the Instagram app and log in to the account you wish to verify.
Navigate to Settings: Tap on the profile icon at the bottom right, then tap the menu icon (three horizontal lines) at the top right. Select Settings from the menu.
Access Account Settings: In the Settings menu, tap on Account, then select Request Verification.
Fill Out the Request Form: Complete the verification request form by providing your full name, known as name (if applicable), and category (e.g., blogger, business, public figure).
Upload Identification: You will need to upload a government-issued ID or official business documents to prove your authenticity.
Submit the Form: Once all the information is filled out and the documents are uploaded, tap Send to submit your verification request.

While waiting for a response from Instagram, here are some tips to optimize your account:

Complete Your Profile: Ensure your profile is public and fully completed with a profile photo, bio, and at least one post.
Maintain High Engagement Levels: Engage with your followers regularly through posts, stories, and comments to show active participation.
Build Media Presence: Try to get featured in reputable news sources to boost your notability and credibility.

By following these steps and optimizing your account, you'll be well on your way to securing that coveted blue checkmark on Instagram.

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Seeking Verification

Applying for Instagram verification can be a tricky process, and many users stumble upon common pitfalls that can hinder their success. Here are some of the most frequent mistakes to avoid, along with tips on how to improve your chances of getting verified:

Incomplete Profiles: Ensure your profile is fully completed, including a profile photo, bio, and at least one post. An incomplete profile can lead to an automatic rejection.
Low Engagement Levels: Accounts with low engagement (likes, comments, and shares) are less likely to be verified. Make sure to actively engage with your followers and create compelling content.
Providing False Information: Always provide accurate and truthful information. Submitting false documents or misleading details can lead to a permanent ban from the verification process.
Private Accounts: Verification is only available for public accounts. Ensure your account is set to public before applying.
Lack of Notability: Instagram looks for accounts that are notable and have a strong presence. If you don't have media coverage or a significant following, work on building your online presence first.
Frequent Username Changes: Changing your username frequently can confuse Instagram's verification team. Stick to a consistent username that represents your brand or identity.

To improve your chances of getting verified, focus on building a strong, authentic presence on Instagram. Engage with your audience, ensure your profile is complete, and aim for media coverage to boost your notability. By avoiding these common mistakes, you'll be one step closer to earning that coveted blue checkmark.

What to Do If Your Verification Request Is Denied

Receiving a denial for your Instagram verification request can be disheartening, but it doesn't mean the end of your journey. Here’s how to handle the situation and improve your chances for future attempts:

1. Understand the Reason for Denial

Instagram doesn’t always provide specific reasons for denial, but common factors include incomplete profiles, lack of notability, or insufficient engagement. Carefully review your account and make necessary improvements.

2. Strengthen Your Profile

Enhance Your Bio: Make sure your bio accurately reflects your brand or identity. Include keywords and links to your official website or other social media profiles.
Increase Engagement: Focus on creating high-quality content that resonates with your audience. Engage with your followers through comments, stories, and direct messages.
Gain Media Coverage: Aim to get featured in reputable media outlets. Articles, interviews, and mentions in popular blogs can boost your notability.
Consistent Activity: Maintain a consistent posting schedule to keep your audience engaged and attract new followers.

3. Reapply After 30 Days

Instagram allows you to reapply for verification after 30 days. Use this time to make the necessary improvements to your account. Remember, persistence is key!

4. Appeal the Decision (if applicable)

If you believe your request was wrongly denied, you can reach out to Instagram’s support team to inquire about the possibility of an appeal. Provide any additional information or documentation that might support your case.

Success Stories

Many users have successfully obtained verification after an initial denial. For example, Forbes shares stories of influencers and business owners who enhanced their profiles and re-applied successfully. These stories highlight the importance of persistence and continuous improvement.

By understanding the reasons for denial and taking actionable steps to strengthen your profile, you can significantly improve your chances of getting verified on Instagram. Keep working on your online presence, and don't give up!

Conclusion and Final Thoughts

Getting verified on Instagram is a valuable step towards enhancing your online presence, credibility, and visibility. In this article, we've explored the significance of Instagram verification, the eligibility requirements, and a step-by-step guide to requesting verification.

Eligibility Requirements: Ensure your account is authentic, unique, complete, and notable.
Requesting Verification: Follow the detailed steps to submit your request, optimizing your profile for better chances.
Common Mistakes: Avoid pitfalls like incomplete profiles and insufficient engagement.
Handling Denial: Learn how to strengthen your account and reapply after 30 days.

We hope this guide has provided you with the insights and tools needed to pursue Instagram verification confidently. Have you tried to get verified on Instagram? We'd love to hear about your experiences and any questions you may have. Share your thoughts in the comments below!

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