How to Get Verified on Instagram & Claim the Blue Check (2024)

Ever wondered how to get verified on Instagram and claim that coveted blue check? 

Well, you’ve landed at the right place! We understand how overwhelming the process may seem, especially with the amount of misinformation floating around. 

That’s why we’ve crafted this straightforward guide, loaded with actionable strategies and insider tips to turn that dream into a reality. 

Ready to transform your Instagram presence and stand out from the crowd?

Let’s dive right in!

What Does it Mean to Get Verified on Instagram?

So, what’s the deal with this blue checkmark, and why should you care? 

Instagram verification, represented by that coveted blue badge, signifies authenticity. It’s Instagram’s way of saying, “Yep, this account is the real deal.” 

It’s a digital stamp of approval that elevates your Instagram profile from the sea of Instagram’s billion-plus users.

But the blue checkmark is more than a cool emblem; it comes with several perks. 

First off, it bolsters your credibility.

In the crowded Instagram landscape, it instantly signals to your target audience (and potential audience) that you’re trustworthy. This can be a game-changer, especially if you’re using the platform professionally.

Plus, having a verified account can give your Instagram profile visibility a sweet boost.

Ever noticed how verified profiles often show up first in Instagram search results? That’s no coincidence. 

Instagram tends to prioritize these profiles, giving them an organic reach advantage.

But don’t be fooled by some of the myths surrounding Instagram verification. It doesn’t instantly catapult you to influencer status or guarantee millions of Instagram followers. 

So should you, or should you not, attempt to get a verified account?

Before you make any decisions, it might be wide to consider the pros and cons…

To Verify or Not to Verify? Pros & Cons of Getting Verified on Instagram

Getting the coveted blue checkmark on Instagram can be quite the feather in your digital cap.

But, like most things, Instagram verification comes with its own set of pros and cons. 

Let’s delve into them, but keep in mind that none of these situations are inevitable if you get verified. Verification simply increases the possibilities that some of the circumstances below might happen to you, too:

Pros of Getting Verified on Instagram

• Increased Trust and Credibility: The blue checkmark tells your followers, and potential followers, that you’re who you claim to be and that Instagram has vouched for you. This boosts trust, which can lead to increased engagement and follower growth.

• Improved Discoverability: An Instagram verification badge can improve your visibility on Instagram. It can help your account stand out in Instagram searches and may even lead to a better ranking in search results, further increasing your profile’s visibility.

• Priority Support: Verified social media accounts often receive priority support from Instagram. If you run into any issues or need assistance, you’re likely to get a quicker response and resolution as a verified Instagram user.

• Advanced Features Access: Instagram occasionally releases new features and gives verified social media accounts first dibs. This means you can stay ahead of the curve and leverage new tools before they’re available to the general public.

• Enhanced Brand Perception: The blue checkmark is often associated with ‘celebrity’ status. Having it next to your name can enhance your brand perception, making you seem more influential or important in your niche.

• Prevents Impersonation: With an Instagram verification badge, it becomes more challenging for others to impersonate you or your brand. This adds an extra layer of protection for your brand’s reputation.

• Greater Chance for Collaborations: Verified accounts are often more attractive to brands looking for Instagram influencers or partners for collaborations. The blue checkmark can increase your chances of being approached for partnerships or sponsorships.

• Boosts Conversion Rates: Trust plays a significant role in conversion rates. By boosting trust with your audience through verification, you may see an increase in conversions, whether it’s subscribing to a newsletter, visiting a website, or making a purchase.

Cons of Getting Verified on Instagram

• Increased Scrutiny: With an Instagram badge comes higher visibility, and with higher visibility comes increased scrutiny. Your posts and actions might be watched more closely, which can be stressful.

• Heightened Expectations: Followers might expect more frequent updates and higher-quality content from verified accounts. This could increase the pressure to produce exceptional content consistently.

• Possibility of Losing Verification: The verification badge isn’t a one-and-done deal. Instagram can remove the badge if you violate the Instagram terms and conditions, which might seem like walking on eggshells for some users.

• Doesn’t Guarantee Engagement: While the badge can boost visibility and credibility, it doesn’t directly translate into engagement or follower growth. You’ll still need to put in the effort to create engaging content and interact with your audience.

• False Sense of Achievement: It’s easy to get so wrapped up in chasing the blue checkmark that you overlook the other aspects of building a strong Instagram presence. Remember, verification is just one part of your Instagram strategy, not the end goal.

• Potential for Negative Feedback: Just as you might attract more positive attention with an Instagram badge, you may also attract more negative attention. Trolls, spam, and negative comments may increase with higher visibility.

• Difficulty in Achieving Verification: The process of getting verified can be arduous and there’s no guarantee of success. Instagram is very selective in granting verification, which can make the process frustrating and time-consuming.

While these pros and cons might help you decide whether Instagram verification is worth pursuing, remember that each Instagram journey is unique. What works for one brand might not work for another. 

The important thing is to focus on building a genuine, engaged community on Instagram, blue checkmark or not.

The Basic Instagram Eligibility Criteria

Now let’s get down to brass tacks. What does it take to get verified on Instagram? 

First and foremost, Instagram requires your account to be:

• Authentic
• Unique
• Complete
• Notable 

Contrary to popular belief, you don’t have to be a social media influencer or have a mammoth follower count. Whether you’re a local artist, entrepreneur, or journalist, if your work is of public interest, you have a shot at that blue checkmark.

And no, you don’t need to rack up tens of thousands of likes on every post either. 

Instagram doesn’t explicitly consider follower count or engagement rates in their verification process. It’s about your account’s authenticity and notability, not its popularity metrics.

Getting Your Account Ready for Verification

So, how do you make your account verification ready? 

Start with ensuring your profile is complete. This means having a profile picture, a filled-out Instagram bio, and at least one social media post. An empty or incomplete profile is a no-go.

Next, focus on creating high-quality, engaging content. This isn’t just about racking up likes; it’s about showcasing your unique perspective or skills. 

Remember, Instagram wants to verify accounts that are of public interest.

Here’s the key…

Be authentic. Instagram has zero tolerance for impersonation. Your account should represent a real person or business. 

As for those multiple accounts you might own for the same thing? Instagram will only verify one.

Another thing to consider is your presence outside of Instagram. 

Do you have a footprint on other online platforms? This cross-platform consistency can help you establish notability. 

And if you find any impersonator profiles, report them. Instagram takes impersonator accounts seriously and it could strengthen your case for verification.

The Verification Application Process: How Does It Work?

Alright, now for the main event: The verification process.

Applying for Instagram verification is surprisingly straightforward. You’ll find the option tucked away under the ‘Settings’ > ‘Account’ > ‘Request Verification’ on the Instagram app on your phone.

(Note: Verification only works on your phone, you won’t be able to do this on your desktop or laptop computer).

Next, you’ll need to provide your account username, your full name, and a copy of your ID (for a person) or legal or business identification (for a business). 

Simple, right?

Then once you hit that submit button, it’s a waiting game.

Instagram doesn’t provide a specific timeline for the verification process, but you can typically expect to hear back within a few days to a week.

In the meantime, keep up your Instagram activity. Post regularly, engage with your audience, and generally be a good Instagram citizen. 

And definitely avoid the temptation of buying likes or Instagram followers. If Instagram sniffs this out (and they’re pretty good at it), it could jeopardize your verification application.

Pro Tips (& Tricks) for Getting Verified

Looking to boost your chances of getting verified on Instagram? Consider polishing your Instagram SEO. 

A well-optimized, searchable profile name and bio can increase your visibility on the platform. The more visible you are, the more likely Instagram is to consider you notable.

Another strategy is to leverage your earned media. 

Have you been featured in press articles or notable blogs? Make sure Instagram knows about it. This can help establish your notability, strengthening your verification bid.

And if all of this sounds a bit overwhelming, you might be wondering: should you hire a publicist or agency to help out? 

It’s certainly an option, and you can definitely find people out there who will offer such services to you. But remember, no one can ‘guarantee’ verification. So approach such claims with a healthy dose of skepticism.

What if Your Verification Request is Denied?

Now, don’t despair if you see that dreaded ‘request denied’ notification. Instagram provides the reasons for denial, and you can use this feedback to improve your account before you reapply. 

And yes, you can reapply after 30 days.

Also, keep in mind that verification isn’t the only way to establish authenticity on Instagram. 

Features like Business Profiles or Creator Profiles also add credibility to your account. Use these tools to your advantage while you work towards verification.

Meanwhile, keep building your global brand, creating quality content, and engaging with your community. This will not only increase your chances of getting verified in the future but will also help you grow your following and boost your engagement. 

Remember, it’s all part of your journey to standing out on Instagram!

Ready to Get Verified on Instagram?

Got those jitters thinking about applying for that blue check? It can definitely feel like stepping onto a massive stage. 

But remember to keep your Instagram goal in mind. 

Does verification even matter for what you are trying to achieve? If not, clarify for yourself what you want to get out of Instagram, and go for it! If so, this guide is your backstage pass to Instagram verification.  

So embrace the process, stay authentic, and watch your digital presence blossom. 

Ready to take on the Insta-world? You’ve got this!