Ever scrolled through Instagram and wondered how that local coffee shop or small business owner managed to snag that coveted blue checkmark? You’re not alone. While getting verified on Instagram might seem like an exclusive club reserved for celebrities and major brands, the truth is that regular people and businesses can achieve verification too.
The Instagram verification process has become more accessible than ever, and with the right approach, you can significantly increase your chances of earning that blue badge – even if you’re not walking red carpets or topping music charts.
Instagram verification is the platform’s way of confirming that an account is the authentic presence of a notable public figure, celebrity, brand, or entity. The blue checkmark badge appears next to your username and serves as a trust signal to your audience.
But here’s the key insight: “notable” doesn’t necessarily mean “famous.” Instagram considers accounts notable if they represent well-known, highly searched-for people, brands, or entities. This opens the door for:
- Local business owners with strong community presence
- Industry experts and thought leaders
- Niche content creators with engaged audiences
- Authors, speakers, and professionals in their fields
Requirements for Instagram Verification
Before diving into strategies, let’s understand Instagram’s official requirements. Your account must be:
Authentic
Your account must represent a real person, registered business, or entity. Generic accounts or fan pages typically don’t qualify.
Unique
You can only have one verified account per person or business (with some exceptions for language-specific accounts).
Complete
Your profile needs to be fully filled out with:
- Profile photo
- Bio
- At least one post
- Public account status
Notable
This is where most people get stuck. Instagram defines notable as “well-known, highly searched-for person, brand or entity.”
Step-by-Step Guide: How to Get Verified on Instagram
Step 1: Build Your Digital Footprint
Before applying for verification, establish your presence beyond Instagram:
Create a Wikipedia Page
- If you’re genuinely notable in your field, consider creating or having someone create a Wikipedia page about you or your business
- Ensure it meets Wikipedia’s notability guidelines
- Include credible sources and references
Get Media Coverage
- Reach out to local newspapers, industry publications, or podcasts
- Offer expert commentary on trending topics in your field
- Share your unique story or business journey
- Save all press coverage as evidence of your notability
Build Authority in Your Niche
- Speak at conferences or industry events
- Write guest posts for established publications
- Appear on podcasts as an expert guest
- Win awards or recognition in your field
Step 2: Optimize Your Instagram Profile
Professional Profile Setup
- Use a clear, high-quality profile photo (preferably your face or logo)
- Write a compelling bio that clearly states who you are and what you do
- Include relevant keywords naturally in your bio
- Add your website link
- Switch to a professional or creator account
Content Strategy
- Post consistently and maintain an active presence
- Share high-quality, original content
- Engage authentically with your audience
- Use relevant hashtags to increase discoverability
Step 3: Gather Supporting Documentation
Before applying, collect evidence of your notability:
- Press coverage and media mentions
- Awards or recognitions
- Speaking engagements
- Professional certifications
- Business registrations
- Published works or articles
Step 4: Submit Your Verification Request
Access the Application
- Go to your Instagram profile
- Tap the menu (three lines) in the top right
- Select “Settings and Privacy”
- Tap “Account”
- Select “Request Verification”
Complete the Application
- Provide your full name or business name
- Upload a clear photo of your government-issued ID or business documents
- Explain why your account should be verified (be specific about your notability)
Follow Up Appropriately
- Wait for Instagram’s response (usually within a few days to weeks)
- If denied, wait at least 30 days before reapplying
- Use the waiting period to strengthen your case
Alternative Strategies That Actually Work
Leverage Local Fame
- Become known in your local community
- Partner with local media outlets
- Participate in community events
- Build relationships with other verified local accounts
Industry Authority Approach
- Become the go-to expert in your niche
- Create educational content consistently
- Build a strong LinkedIn presence
- Network with others in your industry
Business Growth Strategy
- Focus on rapid business growth
- Increase your search volume through SEO and marketing
- Get featured in business publications
- Apply for business awards and recognitions
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Common Mistakes to Avoid
Don’t Buy Fake Followers or Engagement Instagram can detect artificial growth, which hurts your credibility and verification chances.
Avoid Generic Applications Don’t just say you’re “an influencer” – be specific about your expertise and notability.
Don’t Apply Too Frequently Repeatedly applying without improving your case can hurt your chances.
Don’t Ignore Authenticity Never impersonate someone else or misrepresent your identity or achievements.
What to Do If You're Denied
Getting denied isn’t the end of the road. Here’s how to bounce back:
- Analyze the gaps in your application
- Build more evidence of notability
- Improve your content strategy and engagement
- Gain more media coverage or recognition
- Wait the required 30 days before reapplying
- Strengthen your application with new achievements
Also Read: How to Grow Your Instagram Followers Organically in 2025 Want to build a strong foundation before applying for verification? Learn proven strategies to grow your Instagram following naturally and create the engaged audience that supports successful verification applications.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does Instagram verification take?
Instagram typically reviews verification requests within a few days to several weeks. However, some applications may take longer depending on the volume of requests.
Can I get verified with a private account?
No, your account must be public to be eligible for verification. Instagram needs to assess your public presence and notability.
Do I need a certain number of followers to get verified?
Instagram doesn’t specify a minimum follower count for verification. Focus on authenticity and notability rather than just follower numbers.
Can I appeal a verification denial?
Instagram doesn’t have a formal appeal process, but you can reapply after 30 days with a stronger application and more evidence of notability.
Is it worth paying for verification services?
No, Instagram verification is free. Avoid services claiming to guarantee verification for a fee, as these are often scams and violate Instagram’s terms of service.
Final Thoughts: Your Path to Instagram Verification
Getting verified on Instagram without being famous is absolutely possible, but it requires strategy, patience, and genuine effort to establish your notability. Focus on building authentic authority in your field, creating valuable content, and establishing your presence beyond social media.
Remember, verification is not just about the blue checkmark – it’s about building trust and credibility with your audience. Even if your first application isn’t successful, the process of building notability will benefit your personal brand or business in countless ways.
Start implementing these strategies today, and you’ll be well on your way to joining the ranks of verified Instagram accounts. The blue checkmark might seem exclusive, but with the right approach, it’s more attainable than you think.
Ready to start your verification journey? Begin by auditing your current digital presence and identifying areas where you can build more authority and recognition in your field. Your verified status could be just one well-crafted application away.
