How to Get Verified on Instagram in 2025: Complete Guide (Free & Paid)

Getting verified on Instagram confirms your account is authentic and helps you stand out from imposters. There are now two ways to get the blue checkmark: traditional free verification (based on notability) or Meta Verified ($14.99/month).

This comprehensive guide covers both methods, exact requirements, application steps, and proven strategies to increase your approval chances in 2025.

Quick Comparison: Free vs Paid Verification

What Is Instagram Verification?

Instagram verification is a blue checkmark badge that appears next to your username. It tells people your account represents a real public figure, celebrity, brand, or organization.

The blue checkmark:

• Confirms account authenticity
• Helps users find the real you among copycats
• Appears in search results and on your profile
• Cannot be bought or sold

Instagram Verification Requirements

To get verified, your account must be:

1. Authentic

• Represent a real person, business, or organization
• Have complete profile information
• Upload a profile photo
• Include bio information

2. Unique

• Only one account per person or business can be verified
• Fan accounts and general interest accounts don't qualify
• Must be the sole presence of the person or business

3. Complete

• Profile must be public
• Bio section filled out
• Profile photo uploaded
• Recent posts visible

4. Notable (The Most Important Requirement)

• Represent a well-known person, brand, or organization
• Featured in news stories across multiple sources (not paid placements)
• High search volume for your name or business
• Significant following or cultural impact

What Does "Notable" Actually Mean?

This is the most confusing requirement. Instagram defines "notable" as accounts representing a "well-known, highly searched for" person or brand. Here's what actually qualifies:

You May Be Notable If:

Media Coverage:

• Featured in 3+ major news publications (not paid placements)
• Articles in legitimate news sources (not press release sites)
• TV, radio, or podcast appearances
• Documentary features or significant media coverage

Professional Recognition:

• Published books with ISBN numbers
• Speaking engagements at major conferences
• Industry awards or recognitions
• Expert credentials in your field

Online Presence:

• High Google search volume for your name
• Wikipedia page (properly sourced and maintained)
• Verified on other major platforms (Twitter/X, Facebook, TikTok)
• Significant mentions across reputable websites

Cultural Impact:

• Influencer with substantial reach (typically 50K+ engaged followers)
• Created viral content or movements
• Founded notable companies or organizations
• Recognized community leader or activist

What Doesn't Count as Notable:

❌ Paid press releases or sponsored articles ❌ Features in unknown blogs or websites ❌ Self-published content only ❌ Large following alone (without other notability factors) ❌ Local-only recognition (unless very significant) ❌ Social media presence without external validation

Real Examples of Notability Thresholds:

Likely to Get Approved:

• Local business owner featured in 5+ major local news stories
• Author with books sold through major retailers
• Professional athlete in recognized leagues
• Musician with songs on major streaming platforms
• Business featured in Forbes, TechCrunch, or major publications

Unlikely to Get Approved:

• Influencer with 100K followers but no media coverage
• Small business with strong local presence but no news features
• Content creator without external recognition
• Professional with credentials but no public presence

Who Can Get Verified?

Instagram typically verifies:

Public Figures

• Celebrities and entertainers
• Musicians and artists
• Athletes and sports figures
• Politicians and government officials

Brands and Organizations

• Major companies and corporations
• News organizations and journalists
• Non-profit organizations
• Government entities

Content Creators

• Influencers with significant reach
• YouTube creators with large audiences
• Authors and thought leaders
• Industry experts

How to Apply for Instagram Verification

Step 1: Check Your Eligibility

Before applying, make sure you meet all requirements. Your account should be:

• Complete with bio, profile photo, and recent posts
• Public (not private)
• Active with regular posting
• Following Instagram's Terms of Service

Step 2: Gather Required Documents

You'll need to provide:

• Government-issued photo ID (driver's license, passport, national ID)
• Business documents (if applying for a business account)
• Articles or news coverage about you or your business

Step 3: Submit Your Application

On Mobile:

1. Go to your profile
2. Tap the menu icon (three lines)
3. Select "Settings and Privacy"
4. Tap "Account Status and Settings"
5. Select "Request Verification"
6. Fill out the form with your information
7. Upload required documentation
8. Submit your request

On Desktop:

1. Go to your profile page
2. Click "Settings"
3. Select "Privacy and Security"
4. Click "Request Verification"
5. Complete the application form
6. Upload supporting documents
7. Submit your application

Step 4: Wait for Response

Instagram typically responds within a few days to several weeks. You'll receive a notification through the app about your application status.

Tips to Increase Your Approval Chances

Build Your Online Presence

• Get mentioned in news articles or media coverage
• Build a strong following across multiple platforms
• Create high-quality, consistent content with our Instagram caption generator
• Engage actively with your audience

Optimize Your Profile

• Use your real name or official business name
• Write a clear, professional bio
• Add contact information
• Link to your official website

Document Your Notability

• Save links to articles mentioning you
• Collect screenshots of media coverage
• Gather proof of your public recognition
• Keep records of your achievements

Stay Active

• Post regularly and consistently using our Instagram grid planner
• Engage with followers and network professionally on Instagram
• Use relevant hashtags (learn how to hide hashtags on Instagram for a cleaner look)
• Share stories and updates

Follow Instagram Guidelines

• Avoid buying followers or engagement
• Don't violate community guidelines or risk an Instagram shadowban
• Keep your content appropriate
• Respect intellectual property rights

Common Verification Mistakes

1. Applying Too Early

Don't apply until you meet all requirements. Rejected applications can hurt future attempts.

2. Incomplete Applications

Fill out all required fields completely. Missing information leads to automatic rejection.

3. Poor Documentation

Submit clear, official documents. Blurry or unofficial papers get rejected.

4. Private Accounts

Your account must be public during the application process and after verification.

5. Fake Information

Never provide false information or fake documents. This results in permanent rejection.

What Happens After Verification?

If Approved

• Blue checkmark appears next to your username
• Account gains credibility and trust
• Easier for users to find the real you
• Protection from impersonators

If Rejected

• You can reapply after 30 days
• Review and improve your application
• Build more notability before reapplying
• Check that you met all requirements

Verification vs Other Instagram Badges

Blue Checkmark (Traditional Free Verification)

• Cost: Free
• Eligibility: Notable accounts only
• Benefits: Badge confirmation only
• Process: Application with proof of notability
• Cannot be purchased or transferred

Meta Verified (Paid Subscription - 2025 Details)

Pricing:

• $14.99/month on mobile (iOS/Android)
• $11.99/month on web (cheaper!)
• Billed monthly, can cancel anytime

Eligibility Requirements:

• Must be 18 years or older
• Government-issued photo ID required
• ID must match account name
• Real profile photo (not logo or illustration)
• Account must be at least 60 days old
• Currently available in select countries

What's Included:

• ✅ Blue verification badge
• ✅ Proactive account monitoring against impersonators
• ✅ Priority customer support (faster response times)
• ✅ Access to human support representatives
• ✅ Exclusive Meta Verified stickers for Stories
• ✅ 100 free stars per month (for creators)

What's NOT Included:

• ❌ Guaranteed increased reach or engagement
• ❌ Special algorithm boost
• ❌ Protection from account violations
• ❌ Ability to violate community guidelines

Is Meta Verified Worth It?

Worth It If:

• You need verification but don't meet notability requirements
• Customer support is important (business accounts)
• You face frequent impersonation attempts
• $15/month fits your budget
• You value the status symbol

Not Worth It If:

• You qualify for free verification
• Tight budget for social media
• Don't face impersonation issues
• Don't need priority support
• Organic growth is sufficient

Countries Where Meta Verified Is Available (2025): United States, United Kingdom, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, and expanding to more countries.

Other Instagram Badges

Profile Badge (Gold/Purple):

• Professional account categories
• Free for all business/creator accounts
• Shows your account type
• Not the same as verification

Subscription Badge:

• For creators with paid subscribers
• Purple badge for subscribers
• Shows support level
• Not verification

Instagram Verification Scams to Avoid

⚠️ IMPORTANT: Instagram verification is FREE. Anyone offering to sell verification is scamming you.

Common Verification Scams

Scam 1: "Pay for Verification" Services

• Red Flag: Anyone asking for money to get you verified
• Reality: Instagram verification is completely free
• What Happens: You lose money, don't get verified, may get hacked

Scam 2: Fake Instagram DMs

• Red Flag: DMs claiming to be from "Instagram Verification Team"
• Reality: Instagram never contacts you via DM for verification
• What Happens: Phishing attempt to steal your account

Scam 3: Third-Party "Verification Services"

• Red Flag: Websites or agencies promising guaranteed verification
• Reality: No one can guarantee Instagram verification
• What Happens: Waste money, potential account compromise

Scam 4: Blue Checkmark Emoji Trick

• Red Flag: Adding blue checkmark emoji to profile name
• Reality: This is not real verification
• What Happens: Violates Instagram terms, account suspension

How to Spot Verification Scams

Official Instagram Only Communicates Via:

• ✅ In-app notifications
• ✅ Official Instagram Support portal
• ✅ help.instagram.com domain emails

Instagram Will NEVER:

• ❌ Ask for payment for verification
• ❌ Contact you via DM about verification
• ❌ Request your password
• ❌ Guarantee verification for a fee
• ❌ Use unofficial email addresses

What to Do If Scammed

1. Change Your Password Immediately
2. Enable Two-Factor Authentication
3. Report the Scammer:
   • Report the account to Instagram
   • File complaint at ic3.gov (USA)
   • Report to local authorities if significant money lost
4. Warn Others: Share your experience to prevent others from falling victim

Legitimate Ways to Get Help

If You Need Assistance:

• Use Instagram's official help center: help.instagram.com
• Contact Meta Business Support (for business accounts)
• Hire legitimate PR agencies for media coverage (not verification services)
• Work with authentic social media consultants for strategy (not guaranteed verification)

Maintaining Your Verification

Once verified:

• Keep your account active with regular posting
• Continue following Instagram's community guidelines
• Maintain your public presence and notability
• Update your information when needed
• Don't violate terms of service

Instagram can remove verification if:

• You violate community guidelines repeatedly
• Account becomes inactive for extended periods
• Information becomes inaccurate or misleading
• Account ownership changes
• You attempt to sell or transfer the badge
• You change your account name to something misleading

How to Build Notability Before Applying

If you don't currently meet the notability requirement, here's how to build it over time. This typically takes 3-6 months minimum.

Step 1: Create a Media Kit

What to Include:

• Professional high-resolution photos
• Comprehensive bio with achievements
• Press coverage links (if any)
• Statistics and metrics (followers, reach, impact)
• Contact information
• One-sheet summary

Tools to Use:

• Canva for design
• Google Drive for hosting
• Personal website for professional presence

Step 2: Get Featured in Media

Strategy 1: HARO (Help A Reporter Out)

• Sign up at helpareporter.com (free)
• Respond to relevant journalist queries daily
• Provide expert commentary in your field
• Can lead to features in major publications

Strategy 2: Pitch to Journalists

• Follow journalists in your industry on Twitter/X
• Comment thoughtfully on their articles
• Pitch unique stories or data
• Offer yourself as an expert source

Strategy 3: Local Media First

• Easier to get featured locally
• Pitch to local newspapers and TV stations
• Community involvement stories
• Business milestones and achievements
• Charity work and community impact

Strategy 4: Guest Posting and Podcasts

• Write for major industry blogs
• Appear on relevant podcasts
• YouTube collaborations
• LinkedIn articles on trending topics

Step 3: Build Cross-Platform Verification

Get Verified Elsewhere First:

• Twitter/X verification (if eligible)
• Facebook verification
• TikTok verification
• YouTube verification badge

Why This Helps:

• Shows legitimacy across platforms
• Demonstrates broader notability
• Provides additional proof for Instagram

Step 4: Track Your Progress

Monitor Your Notability:

• Google your name monthly
• Track media mentions
• Save all press coverage links
• Screenshot significant achievements
• Document follower growth

Use These Tools:

• Google Alerts for your name/brand
• Google Trends to track search volume
• BuzzSumo for content mentions
• Mention.com for brand monitoring

Realistic Timeline:

Month 1-2: Build media kit, start HARO, pitch local media Month 3-4: Secure first media features, build relationships Month 5-6: Accumulate 3-5 solid media mentions Month 6+: Apply for verification

Important: Don't apply until you have solid notability proof. Rejected applications may hurt future attempts.

Alternative Verification Strategies

Build Media Coverage

• Pitch stories to journalists
• Create newsworthy content
• Partner with other verified accounts
• Participate in industry events

Cross-Platform Presence

• Get verified on other platforms first
• Build consistent branding across platforms
• Create content for multiple channels
• Link your Facebook page to Instagram for cross-platform credibility

Professional Networks

• Join industry organizations
• Speak at conferences and events
• Write for publications
• Build professional relationships

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Buy Instagram Verification?

No. Instagram verification is free. Anyone offering to sell verification is running a scam.

How Long Does Verification Take?

Instagram typically responds within a few days to several weeks after application.

Can I Reapply If Rejected?

Yes, you can reapply 30 days after rejection. Use the time to build more notability.

Do I Need a Certain Number of Followers?

No specific follower count is required, but you need to be notable and have public interest.

Can Business Accounts Get Verified?

Yes, businesses can get verified if they meet the notability and authenticity requirements.

Instagram Verification Statistics & Success Rates (2025)

Approval Rates (Estimates Based on User Reports)

Traditional Free Verification:

• Overall approval rate: ~5-15% of applications
• With strong notability proof: ~40-50%
• Second attempt after improvements: ~20-30%

Meta Verified:

• Approval rate: ~90% (if you meet basic requirements)
• Rejection usually due to ID mismatch or age requirements

Common Rejection Reasons

1. Lack of Notability (45%) - Insufficient media coverage or public interest
2. Incomplete Profile (20%) - Missing bio, photos, or posts
3. Private Account (15%) - Account set to private
4. Inauthentic Identity (10%) - ID doesn't match account name
5. Recent Violations (10%) - Community guideline violations

Average Wait Times

Traditional Verification:

• First review: 1-2 weeks
• Most responses: 2-4 weeks
• Can take up to 30 days

Meta Verified:

• ID verification: 1-2 days
• Badge activation: 2-3 days
• Total process: Usually under 1 week

Verification Checklist

Before Applying for Traditional (Free) Verification:

Profile Requirements: ✅ Account is complete with bio and profile photo ✅ Account is public, not private ✅ Profile photo is clear and represents you/brand ✅ Bio is filled out completely ✅ Contact information added ✅ Website link included ✅ At least 10-15 recent posts visible

Notability Requirements: ✅ Featured in 3+ legitimate news publications ✅ High Google search volume for your name/brand ✅ Saved links to all media coverage ✅ Screenshots of notable achievements ✅ Proof of professional recognition ✅ Verified on other major platforms (helpful but not required)

Documentation Ready: ✅ Government-issued photo ID (passport, driver's license) ✅ ID matches your account name exactly ✅ Links to media coverage ready to submit ✅ Proof of notability compiled

Account Health: ✅ No recent community guideline violations ✅ Active posting history (minimum 10 posts) ✅ Regular posting schedule ✅ No fake followers or engagement ✅ Authentic content only ✅ Account is at least 60 days old (recommended)

Before Applying for Meta Verified:

✅ Age 18 or older ✅ Government ID ready ✅ ID matches account name exactly ✅ Real profile photo (not logo or illustration) ✅ Account at least 60 days old ✅ Budget for $14.99/month (or $11.99 on web) ✅ Available in your country ✅ Understand it doesn't boost reach automatically

Ready to Get Verified?

Instagram verification takes time and effort. Focus on building genuine notability rather than trying shortcuts. Create valuable content, engage authentically, and let your reputation grow naturally.

Track your verification journey with SocialRails:

• Monitor your account growth
• Schedule consistent content
• Analyze engagement patterns
• Build authentic community

Start Free Trial - No credit card required

Related Resources

• How to Hide Likes on Instagram - Manage your privacy settings
• Instagram Reels Reposting Guide - Share content ethically
• Instagram Giveaway Campaigns - Grow your audience
• Instagram Image Sizes Guide - Optimize your content
• Instagram Story Collages - Create engaging stories
• Instagram Caption Generator - Create engaging captions
• Instagram Growth Strategy Tool - Plan your growth

Build your Instagram presence authentically. Focus on creating value, getting media coverage, and building genuine community engagement to increase your verification chances.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I buy Instagram verification?

No, Instagram verification is completely free. Anyone offering to sell verification is running a scam. Instagram does not charge for the blue checkmark and warns against paying anyone for verification services.

How long does Instagram verification take?

Instagram typically responds to verification requests within a few days to several weeks. There's no exact timeframe, and the process can vary based on application volume and account review complexity.

Do I need a certain number of followers to get verified?

No specific follower count is required for verification. Instagram focuses on authenticity, uniqueness, completeness, and notability rather than follower numbers. Some verified accounts have fewer than 10,000 followers.

Can I reapply if my verification request is rejected?

Yes, you can reapply for verification 30 days after rejection. Use this time to build more notability, gather media coverage, and improve your profile before submitting a new application.

What's the difference between Instagram verification and Meta Verified?

Instagram verification is free and based on notability, while Meta Verified is a paid subscription service available in select countries. Both provide a blue checkmark, but Meta Verified includes additional customer support features.

Can business accounts get Instagram verification?

Yes, businesses can get verified if they meet authenticity, uniqueness, completeness, and notability requirements. Major companies, brands, and notable organizations regularly receive verification.

What documents do I need for Instagram verification?

You need government-issued photo ID (driver's license, passport, or national ID). For businesses, you may need business registration documents. All documents must be clear, official, and match your account information.

Will Instagram remove my verification badge?

Yes, Instagram can remove verification if you violate community guidelines, your account becomes inactive, information becomes inaccurate, or account ownership changes. Maintaining verification requires ongoing compliance with Instagram's policies.

Can I get verified with a small number of followers?

Yes, there's no minimum follower count for Instagram verification. Some verified accounts have fewer than 10,000 followers. What matters is notability—being featured in multiple news sources and having high public interest in your name or brand, regardless of follower count.

Does being verified increase my Instagram reach?

No, Instagram verification does not automatically increase your reach or boost your posts in the algorithm. The blue checkmark confirms authenticity but doesn't provide algorithmic advantages. However, verified accounts may see indirect benefits through increased credibility and trust.

Can fan accounts or parody accounts get verified?

No, fan accounts and parody accounts do not qualify for Instagram verification. Verification is only for accounts representing the authentic presence of a real person, brand, or organization. The account must be the unique presence of the entity it represents.

What's the success rate for Instagram verification applications?

The overall approval rate for traditional Instagram verification is approximately 5-15%. However, accounts with strong notability proof (3+ major media features, high search volume) have a 40-50% approval rate. Most rejections are due to insufficient notability or incomplete profiles.

Can I apply for verification if I have a private account?

No, your account must be public to apply for verification and must remain public to maintain verification status. Instagram requires verified accounts to be accessible to the general public. Switch your account to public before applying.

How many times can I apply for Instagram verification?

You can reapply for Instagram verification 30 days after a rejection. There's no limit to the number of attempts, but you should use the waiting period to build more notability and improve your application. Repeated rejections without improvements won't help your chances.

Is paying for Instagram verification a scam?

Yes, anyone offering to sell Instagram verification for money is running a scam. Traditional Instagram verification is completely free. The only legitimate paid option is Meta Verified ($14.99/month), which must be purchased directly through Instagram's official app—never through third parties.

Can businesses with generic names get verified?

Businesses with generic names can get verified if they're notable enough, but it's more challenging. The account name should match official business registration documents, and you'll need stronger notability proof. Being featured prominently in news media and having significant brand recognition helps overcome generic naming challenges.

What happens if my verification application is rejected?

If rejected, you'll receive an in-app notification. You can reapply after 30 days. Use this time to build more notability by securing media coverage, increasing your public presence, and gathering better documentation. Review Instagram's requirements carefully before reapplying to address the reason for rejection.

Do I need a Wikipedia page to get verified on Instagram?

No, a Wikipedia page is not required for Instagram verification, but it can significantly help demonstrate notability. However, the Wikipedia page must be properly sourced, maintained, and not created by you. Many verified accounts don't have Wikipedia pages but have substantial media coverage instead.

Can I transfer my verification badge to a new account?

No, Instagram verification badges cannot be transferred between accounts. If you create a new account, you must apply for verification again. If you change your username on the same account, the badge remains, but changing your account name to something completely different may trigger a review.