In 2025, there are two primary methods for How to Get Verified on Instagram and acquire the coveted blue checkmark next to your name. The first is the traditional method, which involves applying directly through the app and proving your account is “notable” by meeting Instagram’s strict criteria for authenticity, uniqueness, and public recognition. The second, and more recent, method is by subscribing to Meta Verified, a paid monthly service that verifies your identity using a government-issued ID and provides a blue badge along with other exclusive features, offering a direct path to verification for a recurring fee.
Instagram Verification Methods: A 2025 Comparison
| Feature | Traditional Verification (Notability) | Meta Verified (Paid Subscription) |
| Eligibility | Public figures, celebrities, global brands, and other notable entities. | Individuals 18+ with a public/private profile and government-issued ID. |
| Primary Requirement | Must be notable (highly searched for, featured in multiple news sources). | Must provide a government-issued ID that matches the profile name. |
| Cost | Free | Monthly subscription fee (approx. $11.99-$14.99/month). |
| Application Process | In-app application requiring proof of notability and identity. | In-app subscription process involving ID verification. |
| Key Benefit | Establishes high-level public interest and authority. | Provides account authenticity, proactive protection, and direct support. |
| Blue Checkmark | Yes, the traditional blue badge. | Yes, an identical blue badge. |
| Best For | Widely recognized public figures and established brands. | Creators, small business owners, and individuals seeking credibility. |
The Ultimate 2025 Guide to Getting Verified on Instagram
The small blue badge on an Instagram profile is one of the most sought-after symbols in the social media world. It’s a mark of authenticity and credibility, instantly signaling to users that the account is the official presence of the person or brand it represents. For years, this Instagram blue check was an exclusive emblem reserved for the world’s most famous and influential figures. However, the landscape of verification has changed dramatically. In 2025, understanding how to get verified on Instagram involves navigating two distinct paths: the classic, merit-based application and the new, accessible paid subscription model known as Meta Verified. This guide will break down both methods, helping you determine the best route for your goals.
Why is the Instagram Verification Badge So Important?
Before diving into the “how,” let’s understand the “why.” The blue checkmark offers several significant advantages:
- Establishes Authenticity and Trust: The primary purpose of verification is to confirm identity. It tells your audience and potential followers that you are who you say you are, which is crucial in an online environment rife with impersonation accounts.
- Enhances Credibility and Authority: A verified badge acts as a social proof mechanism. It elevates your status on the platform, lending more weight to your content and opinions. For businesses, this can translate directly into increased consumer trust.
- Protects Against Impersonation: Verified accounts receive better protection from Instagram. The platform is more likely to take swift action against accounts trying to impersonate you if your official account is verified.
- Improves Visibility: While not officially confirmed by Instagram, many users report that verified accounts may receive preferential treatment in search results and suggestion algorithms, potentially leading to increased reach and discoverability.
- Access to Special Features: Both verification types can grant access to features not available to the general user base, such as enhanced support and security measures.
Method 1: Traditional Verification – The Path of Notability
This is the original, and arguably more prestigious, method of verification. It is free but requires that the account holder be a “public figure, celebrity, or global brand” that meets Instagram’s stringent criteria.
Core Requirements for Traditional Verification:
To apply, your account must be:
- Authentic: It must represent a real person, registered business, or entity. You’ll need to prove this with official identification.
- Unique: It must be the only presence of the person or business on Instagram. One badge is given per person or brand, with exceptions for language-specific accounts.
- Complete: Your profile must be public, have a bio, a profile photo, and at least one post.
- Notable: This is the most challenging requirement. Your account must represent a well-known, highly searched-for person, brand, or entity.
What Does “Notable” Mean to Instagram?
Instagram reviews applications for notability by looking for evidence that you are featured in multiple, independent, and credible news sources. Paid or promotional content does not count. This is a critical distinction. Simply having a lot of followers is not enough. You need organic press coverage.
- Examples of acceptable sources: Major news articles from outlets like Forbes, The New York Times, BBC News, or well-regarded industry-specific publications (e.g., Vogue for fashion, TechCrunch for tech).
- Examples of unacceptable sources: Press releases, sponsored content, blog posts, or mentions in outlets that are not considered reputable.
How to Apply for Traditional Verification:
The application process itself is straightforward and done directly within the Instagram app.
- Go to your profile and tap the three horizontal lines in the top-right corner.
- Tap Settings and privacy.
- For professional accounts, tap Creator tools and controls or Business tools and controls.
- Tap Request Verification.
- Confirm your identity by providing your full name and uploading a required identification document (e.g., driver’s license, passport, or national identification card for individuals; tax filings or articles of incorporation for businesses).
- Demonstrate your notability by selecting your category/industry and providing links to articles, social media accounts, and other sources that show you are in the public interest.
- Submit your application.
You will receive a notification within 30 days informing you whether your application has been approved or denied. If you are rejected, you can re-apply after 30 days.
Method 2: Meta Verified – The Paid Subscription Path
Launched to provide a more accessible route to verification, Meta Verified is a monthly subscription service that confirms your identity and offers a suite of premium features. This is the simplest way to get the blue checkmark.
Features and Benefits of Meta Verified:
- A Verified Badge: You receive the same blue checkmark, confirming your identity has been verified with a government ID.
- Proactive Impersonation Protection: Meta actively monitors for accounts that might be trying to impersonate you and takes action.
- Direct Account Support: This is a major perk. Subscribers get access to a real human for common account issues—a level of support unavailable to most users.
- Exclusive Stickers for Stories and Reels: Fun, unique digital assets to use in your content.
- Increased Reach (in some regions): Meta has stated that subscribers may see increased visibility and prominence in some areas of the platform, like search and comments.
How to Subscribe to Meta Verified:
The process is designed to be simple and quick.
- Go to your profile and tap the three horizontal lines in the top-right corner.
- Tap Settings and privacy.
- Tap Accounts Center.
- Tap Meta Verified. If your account is eligible, you will see “Meta Verified available” under your name.
- Select your desired profile, set up your payment, and complete the verification process by providing a government-issued photo ID.
- The ID verification process can take up to 48 hours. Once confirmed, the blue badge and other features will be activated on your profile.
Which Verification Method is Right for You?
Choosing between the two paths depends on your status and your goals.
- If you are a well-established public figure, a major brand, or an individual with significant press coverage, the traditional verification method is the ideal choice. It carries a legacy of prestige and validates your notability in the public eye.
- If you are an up-and-coming creator, a small business owner, an influencer, or simply an individual who wants the security and credibility of the blue check, Meta Verified is the perfect solution. It’s a straightforward, reliable way to protect your account and build trust with your audience without needing to be famous.
Ultimately, whether you earn it through notability or purchase it for authenticity, the Instagram verification badge remains a powerful tool in 2025 for building a strong and trustworthy online presence.