How to Get Instagram Verified Badge: Blue Check Meaning, Requirements & Tips

Instagram Verified Badges: What They Are, Why You Need One, and How to Get It

Instagram is one of the most powerful social media platforms for brands, influencers, and businesses. With over a billion users worldwide, standing out in a crowded feed can be challenging. One way to increase credibility and build trust with your audience is by obtaining an Instagram verified badge.
The Instagram verified badge, often called the blue tick, is more than just a symbol. It shows followers and potential customers that your account is authentic and trustworthy. For public figures, businesses, or brands, having a verified badge can boost visibility, increase engagement, and protect against impersonation.
Many people wonder how to get Instagram verified or what the blue tick actually represents. This article explains everything you need to know about Instagram verified badges, why you should aim for one, and the steps to secure your verification badge. (Delivered Social)

What Is an Instagram Verified Badge?

An Instagram verified badge is the small blue tick that appears next to a username on Instagram. It confirms that the account is authentic and belongs to the public figure, brand, or entity it represents. Instagram uses this badge to differentiate real accounts from fan pages, impersonators, or fake profiles.
Verified badges are given to accounts that are considered notable, authentic, and active. These accounts often include celebrities, public figures, influencers, media outlets, and large brands. The blue tick acts as a mark of trust and helps users easily identify official profiles.
Having a verified badge provides several benefits. It increases the account’s credibility and can help users feel more confident following or engaging with the profile. For businesses, it may lead to improved brand recognition and customer trust. Verified accounts can also have a higher chance of appearing in search results or in suggested profiles, giving your account extra exposure.
In short, the Instagram verified badge is a symbol of authenticity, trust, and credibility. It signals to users that the account is official, which can directly impact engagement, visibility, and brand perception.

Why You Should Want the Blue Tick on Instagram

There are several reasons why obtaining the blue tick on Instagram is worth pursuing.

Builds Credibility and Authority: A verified badge instantly shows that your account is authentic. Followers and potential customers are more likely to trust your content and see your account as an authoritative source. For influencers, brands, and public figures, this trust is crucial in building a loyal audience.
Protects Your Brand: The blue tick helps prevent impersonation. Fake accounts often copy real profiles, misleading followers or customers. Having a verified badge ensures your audience can easily recognise your official account, protecting both your reputation and your brand identity.
Boosts Profile Visibility: Instagram verified accounts can appear higher in search results and suggested profiles. This extra visibility increases the chances of reaching new followers and expanding your audience.
Encourages Engagement: Users are more likely to engage with verified accounts because they trust the source. A verified badge can lead to higher likes, comments, and shares, improving overall account performance.
Adds Professionalism: For businesses, influencers, and content creators, the blue tick signals professionalism. It shows that the account is credible and recognised by Instagram, giving your brand a competitive edge. (Backstage)
Ultimately, the verified badge is not just a symbol. It is a practical tool that can strengthen your reputation, increase engagement, and protect your account from impersonation or fraud. By understanding the requirements, following the application process, and maintaining best practices, you can increase your chances of obtaining the coveted blue tick.

Requirements for Instagram Verification

Instagram has strict eligibility requirements for verified badges. Understanding these requirements is the first step toward getting your account verified by the platform.
Here are the main criteria:

Authenticity: Your account must represent a real person, registered business, or entity. Fake accounts or fan pages are not eligible for verification.
Uniqueness: Only one account per person or business can be verified, with exceptions for language-specific accounts. Instagram does not verify multiple accounts for the same entity unless each account serves a unique purpose.
Public Account: Private accounts cannot receive a verified badge. Your account must be public, have a profile picture, and include a bio to be considered for verification.
Completeness: Your profile should be complete with all necessary information. This includes a profile photo, a bio, and at least one post. Incomplete profiles are often rejected.
Notability: Instagram looks for accounts that are well-known and frequently searched. This usually includes celebrities, public figures, brands, or other notable entities. Being featured in multiple news sources or media outlets increases your chances, so don’t forget about that all-important PR strategy you’ve been putting off.
By meeting these requirements, your account stands a better chance of getting the verified badge. Keep in mind that verification is not guaranteed, even if all conditions are met. Instagram reviews each application carefully and only approves accounts that truly meet its standards.

How to Apply for an Instagram Verified Badge

Applying for verification on Instagram is a straightforward process (however, it does change depending on device, Instagram version and many other factors). Follow these steps to submit your application:

Open the Instagram app and go to your profile.
Tap the menu in the top right corner and select Settings.
Go to Account → Request Verification.
Fill out your full name, account type, and upload a government-issued ID (for individuals) or official business documents (for brands).
Submit your application and wait for Instagram’s response.
Now, just in case this step-by-step guide appears differently on your device, here’s a direct link to what Instagram says about verification (which is super helpful because it contains how-to guides for Android and Apple devices). (Shopify)
How long does it take? That’s a great question. Instagram usually reviews applications within a few days to a few weeks. You will receive a notification letting you know whether your request was approved or denied. If you are denied, you can reapply after 30 days.
Remember these tips to improve your chances:

Ensure your profile is public, complete, and active.
Avoid using third-party services that promise instant verification; these are often scams.
Show your notability with media mentions, articles, or a strong online presence.
Following these steps carefully gives your account the best chance of earning the blue tick.

Best Practices to Increase Your Chances of Getting Verified

While Instagram handles the final decision, there are best practices that can improve your chances of verification:

Maintain a Strong Online Presence: Being active outside Instagram on websites, blogs, or other social media platforms can demonstrate your credibility. The more Instagram can see that you are notable, the bigger your chances of success.
Avoid Shortcuts: Buying verification, fake followers, or engagement can lead to account suspension. Instagram seeks genuine accounts that genuinely represent real influence.
Keep Profiles Active: Regular posts, stories, and engagement show Instagram that the account is maintained and authentic. (Brandwatch)
Provide Proof of Notability: Media mentions, press coverage, and features in credible publications strengthen your case.
Be Patient: Even with a strong profile, verification may take time. Waiting a few weeks and applying correctly is better than multiple rushed attempts.

Common Myths About Instagram Verification

Several myths about verification can mislead users:

Verification is paid: Instagram does not charge for verified badges when applying through the app. Avoid services that promise verification for a fee (unless you’re subscribing through the official paid route).
Verification guarantees followers: Having a blue tick does not automatically increase followers. Growth still depends on the quality of content and user engagement.
Verification improves algorithm ranking: Instagram does not favour verified accounts in the feed; it only affects credibility and visibility in search results. This is an important factor to remember when building your audience because once you have that blue tick, you’ll still have to put all the hard work in for your audience.

What to Do If Your Verification Is Denied

If your request is denied, do not worry. Many accounts are initially rejected but succeed later:

Wait 30 days before reapplying.
Make the most of all of Instagram’s features. If you’ve not been using stories, for example, make sure you spend more time developing your weak areas of engagement. Work on strengthening your profile by posting regularly and improving your bio.
Build notability by getting mentioned in media or online articles.
Avoid rushing multiple applications, as this can lower your chances.
Persistence, consistency, and maintaining a strong online presence are key to eventually receiving verification.

When it comes down to it, verification is an investment in your social media presence. By consistently posting, building notability, and maintaining a professional profile, you can stand out on Instagram and earn your verified badge. Start the verification process today and take your Instagram credibility to the next level.

What exactly is the blue check mark on Instagram?

The blue check mark is the verified badge that signifies your account has been confirmed by Instagram as the authentic presence of the person, brand or entity.

Who can get the Instagram verified badge?

Accounts representing real persons, registered businesses or entities, that are unique, public, complete and notably in the public interest can apply.

Do I need a specific number of followers to get verified on Instagram?

No, Instagram does not specify a follower count requirement. Notability and authenticity matter more than just follower count.

Is verification free on Instagram?

Yes, the standard verification route is free when you apply through the Instagram app. However, there is also a paid route (way) to verification via subscription in some regions.

What is the paid verification option?

The paid option is known as Meta Verified — a subscription service where users can pay a monthly fee to get a verified badge along with additional features like extra protection and support. (Lifewire)

What happens if my request is denied?

You’ll need to wait for 30 days before reapplying. Use that time to strengthen your profile, increase media presence, and ensure your account meets all eligibility criteria.

Does having the verified badge guarantee more followers or likes?

Not necessarily. While a verified badge can improve visibility and trust, growth still depends on content quality, engagement, and consistent activity.

Can Instagram remove my verified badge?

Yes. If you change your username, violate Instagram’s rules, transfer or sell your badge, switch to a private account, or cancel a paid subscription (where applicable), you may lose verification.

Will verification make my account appear more in Instagram search results?

While it doesn’t guarantee top placements, verified accounts often have improved visibility and stand out more, which can enhance discoverability.

Are there scams to “buy” verification on Instagram?

Yes. Instagram explicitly forbids buying or selling badged verification outside official channels. Be wary of any service promising instant verification for a fee.