How to get verified on Instagram (blue tick)

Getting verified on Instagram is a game-changer for influencers and brands. The coveted Instagram blue tick signifies authenticity and boosts your credibility.

Image above: the account from McDonald's India (we deployed an influencer strategy for them that you can read here) has the "Instagram Blue Tick".

If you’re wondering how to get verified on Instagram, we prepared this guide that covers everything you need to know, including free and paid options.

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How to get verified on Instagram: the 2 most common options

Getting the blue tick on Instagram can be achieved through two primary methods:

1. Applying directly to Instagram for free.
2. Paying for Meta Verified.

Here you have all the information from Instagram itself, but in this post, you will find a breakdown of these approaches.

1. Applying for Instagram Verification (Free)

Instagram allows users to request verification for free by submitting an application.

Here’s how to do it:

1. Go to your Instagram profile.
2. Tap the menu icon and select Settings > Account > Request Verification.
3. Fill out the required form, which includes these steps:
   1. Fill in your full name
   2. Upload a valid identity document (ID, Passport, Driving License, Tax Filing…)
   3. Confirm notability. In other words: why are you or your brand famous or known?
   4. Add some links from external websites to show that your account or brand is well-known. Note: sponsored articles don’t count as valid
4. Submit your application and wait a few days (up to 30) for a confirmation

Instagram evaluates applications based on their verification criteria:

• Authenticity: Your account must represent a real person, brand, or entity.
• Uniqueness: Only one account per person or business can be verified.
• Completeness: A fully filled-out profile is a must.
• Notability: You must be a public figure or notable individual.

2. Paying for Meta Verified

Meta, Instagram’s parent company, now offers a paid verification option called Meta Verified, which is a second option to get verified on Instagram. For a monthly fee, eligible users can gain access to the Instagram blue tick and Facebook blue tick, along with additional features, such as:

• Proactive account protection
• Improved account support from Instagram
• Protection against account theft and fake impersonations

Requirements for applicants to Meta Verified

The Instagram account you select to be Meta Verified must meet the following conditions:

• Account owner must be 18 years old or more
• You can be a personal or creator account on Instagram.
• Have a profile picture and name that meet Meta Verified naming requirements.
• Have two-factor authentication enabled to log in.
• Meet minimum activity requirements, such as having a prior posting history.
• Be in a country where Meta Verified is available.
• Comply with Instagram's Terms of Use and Community Guidelines.

Which accounts can get the Meta Verified blue tick?

The following accounts from Meta (Facebook, Instagram and WhatsApp) are eligible for Meta Verified:

• Professional creator Instagram accounts.
• Personal Instagram accounts.
• Professional creator Facebook accounts.
• Personal Facebook accounts.

You can verify up to two eligible profiles (one Instagram and one Facebook) linked through the same Accounts Center. If you verify two profiles, they may need to have the same name and profile picture.

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Benefits of having "IG's Blue Tick"

Earning the IG blue tick can significantly enhance your profile’s performance and credibility.

Here you have some reasons:

• Trust and authenticity: the blue tick signals to followers and potential collaborators that your account is trustworthy, authentic, and genuine.
• Better visibility: verified accounts often rank higher in search results and may receive priority in Instagram’s algorithm.
• Enhanced brand appeal: as a verified influencer, brands are more likely to partner with you, leading to better monetization opportunities.

For businesses, brands and online shops, the Instagram verification badge boosts consumer confidence and improves engagement.

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FAQ's we receive about how to get verified on Instagram

Some of our influencers frequently ask about the Instagram blue tick process. Here are answers to the most common questions:

How long does it take to get verified on Instagram after requesting?

It usually takes Instagram 7 to 30 days to review your verification request. If your application is denied, you can reapply after 30 days.

How many people are verified on Instagram?

While Instagram does not publish exact numbers, it's estimated that less than 1% of all accounts are verified due to the strict eligibility criteria of doing it using the free method.

How to get verified on Instagram with a business account?

The process for business accounts is similar to personal accounts:

1. Apply via the Request Verification feature in settings.
   1. For a IG Business account the Verification form will be under Settings > Business Tools > Request Verification
2. The rest of the form and steps are the same as we described above.

How many followers do you need to get verified on Instagram?

There’s no official follower count requirement for verification. Instagram prioritizes notability, public interest and authenticity of a public figure or brand over follower numbers. Even accounts with fewer followers but significant media coverage can qualify if they are considered to be notorious enough.

Do you need to be IG verified to work as an influencer with DRIM?

No, you don’t need to have the IG blue tick to work with DRIM as an influencer, we accept any kind of influencers. However, having the Instagram verification badge can help you stand out and monetize your account more effectively.