To verify your Instagram account in 2025, you have two main options: the traditional (free) verification process or subscribing to Meta Verified. Below is a step-by-step guide for both methods, based on the latest available information.
Option 1: Traditional Verification (Free)
This method is suitable for accounts representing notable public figures, celebrities, or brands. Instagram has specific criteria for eligibility:
Requirements:
- Authentic: Your account must represent a real person, registered business, or entity. You’ll need to provide official documentation, such as a government-issued ID (e.g., driver’s license, passport) or business documents (e.g., tax filings, utility bill, or business registration).
- Unique: Only one account per person or business can be verified, except for language-specific accounts. General interest accounts (e.g., meme or fan pages) are not eligible.
- Complete: Your account must be public, have a profile picture, a bio, and at least one post. Regular activity (posting, commenting, or sharing) is also expected.
- Notable: Your account must represent a well-known, highly searched-for person, brand, or entity. Instagram reviews accounts featured in multiple unpaid news sources (paid or promotional content doesn’t count).
Steps to Apply:
- Log In: Open the Instagram app and log into the account you want to verify.
- Access Settings: Tap the hamburger icon (three horizontal lines) in the top-right corner of your profile.
- Navigate to Verification: Go to Settings and Privacy > Creator Tools and Controls (or Account in some versions) > Request Verification.
- Fill Out the Form:
- Provide your full name as it appears on your ID.
- Upload a photo of your government-issued ID or business documents.
- Select a category that defines your impact (e.g., media, fashion, business).
- Describe your audience and what you’re known for (e.g., “Tech journalist featured in XYZ Magazine”).
- Optionally, include links to news articles or other evidence of notability.
- Submit: Submit your application and wait for Instagram’s review, which can take up to 30 days.
- Follow Up: You’ll receive a notification in your Instagram Activity feed indicating approval or denial. If denied, you can reapply after 30 days.
Tips to Improve Chances:
- Build a strong online presence with consistent, high-quality content.
- Secure unpaid press mentions in reputable news outlets.
- Engage actively with your audience to demonstrate activity.
- Ensure your account adheres to Instagram’s Terms of Use and Community Guidelines.
- Avoid inauthentic activity, like buying followers, which can disqualify you.
Option 2: Meta Verified (Paid Subscription)
Meta Verified is a subscription-based service that offers an easier path to verification for individuals and businesses, regardless of notability. It’s available in select regions and expanding globally.
Requirements:
- Be 18 years or older.
- Have a public or private profile with a profile picture, full name, and some active presence (e.g., posts, stories, or interactions).
- Provide a government-issued ID that matches the name on your profile.
- Comply with Instagram’s Terms of Use and Community Guidelines.
Steps to Subscribe:
- Log In: Open the Instagram app and log into the account you want to verify.
- Access Meta Verified: Go to Settings and Privacy > Meta Verified.
- Choose a Plan: Select a subscription plan. Pricing varies by region (e.g., $11.99/month on the web or $14.99/month on iOS/Android in some markets, like the US, Australia, and New Zealand).
- Upload ID: Submit a government-issued ID to confirm your identity.
- Complete Verification: Once approved, the blue checkmark will appear on your profile, typically within 48 hours.
Benefits of Meta Verified:
- Verified Badge: Confirms your account’s authenticity.
- Enhanced Security: Proactive monitoring to protect against impersonation.
- Priority Support: Direct access to customer support for account issues.
- Increased Visibility: Your comments, stories, and posts may rank higher in searches and feeds.
- Exclusive Features: Access to unique stickers for Stories and Reels, and in some regions, enhanced profile tools like clickable image links.
Notes:
- Meta Verified is a subscription, so the badge is removed if you cancel the plan.
- You cannot change your username or date of birth without re-verifying.
- Businesses may need a professional account, and availability depends on the region.
