#TechTuesday: How to get verified on Instagram
Aside from Facebook, many social media users, content creators, and brands also manage Instagram accounts mainly for photo and video sharing.
With the number of users out there on the social networking site, it’s important for a profile to stand out. This can be done through consistent and high quality content, as well as verification.
But what exactly does it take to get that blue badge next to your name on Instagram?
What does being Instagram verified mean?
Getting verified on Instagram is important for individuals or brands that are well-known, highly searched or may be susceptible to being replicated. Verification proves that an Instagram account is the authentic presence of a notable public figure, celebrity or global brand.
As with Twitter and Facebook, the little blue checkmarks are meant to indicate that the platform has confirmed the account in question is trustworthy, or at least they are who they say they are.
The badges are designed to make real accounts stand out, so that Instagram users can be sure they’re following the right person or brand. They’re easy to spot in search results and on profiles, and they convey authority.
In the social media world, checkmarks are a status symbol and badge of honor. Since these are rare, the exclusivity lends a certain amount of prestige, which could translate to better engagement.
What are the requirements to apply for a verified badge?
Instagram is notoriously picky about who gets verified. According to the social media app, right now, only some public figures, celebrities and brands have verified badges. While anyone can request for a verification badge, this does not guarantee that your account will be verified. Instagram tends to prioritize only accounts with a high likelihood of being impersonated.
Aside from adhering to the network’s Terms of Service and Community Guidelines, here are the main factors for eligibility.
- Authentic: The account must represent a real person, registered business or brand. Instagram does not verify meme pages of fan accounts.
- Unique: Instagram only verifies one account per person or business, with exceptions of language-specific accounts.
- Public: Private Instagram accounts do not qualify for verification.
- Complete: The account must be active and have a complete bio, profile, photo and at least one post.
- Notable: Instagram defines a notable entity as one that is well-known and highly searched.
How to get verified badge on Instagram
Anyone can submit a request to get verified. Here’s the step-by-step process:
Step 1: Go to your Instagram profile by tapping the icon with your profile picture in the bottom-right corner.
Step 2: Tap on the menu icon in the top-right corner of your profile.
Step 3: Select the settings icon that appears at the bottom-right of your screen, then select Account from the settings menu.
Step 4: Scroll down through the account settings until you see Request verification, then tap it.
Step 5: A form will appear with your account name pre-filled. First, add your full name (for businesses, the full name of whoever manages your Instagram will do).
Step 6: Next, tap Choose File to attach a photo of your ID. For a person, a driver’s license, passport, or national identification card will work. For a business, you can use any official business document such as a tax filing, article of incorporation, or even a recent electrical bill.
Step 7: You can open your camera and take a clear, in-focus photo of your ID or upload an image of your ID from your phone
Step 8: Finally, tap the blue Send button at the bottom of the screen to submit your verification request to Instagram.
How long does it take to get verified on Instagram?
Your request will now go to individual moderators at IG who will review your account and decide whether or not to approve you for an Instagram badge. This could take several weeks, so it’s not a bad sign if you don’t hear back straight away.
Once the Instagram authorities have made their decision, you’ll receive a notification in the app telling you whether or not you are Instagram verified. If your request is denied, don’t lose hope! You can submit a new request after 30 days.
Tips for getting verified on Instagram
Instagram is now being more transparent about what it takes to get a verified badge, and have publicly stated their standards and requirements for getting verified on their help center.
(Images via Instagram)