For some, the legendary blue tick may be only a slight mark next to their username, but for the majority, the symbol of authenticity is the most coveted prize on Instagram. It not only establishes you as a famous person but also distinguishes you from fake accounts, giving your followers an instant sense of trust. Thus, authenticity is worth its weight in gold dust.

Instagram's authentication process is notably selective—and, dare we say, mysterious. According to Facebook's guidelines, the following are some of the criteria they consider when choosing which accounts to verify on the platform.

Authenticity

Accounts that are eligible for verification should pose a genuine person, entity, or company.

Completion

Accounts that are eligible for verification must be accessible, AKA public. The profiles must be completely filled out, including a profile picture, bio, and at least one post. 

Uniqueness

Accounts that are eligible for verification have to be distinct, which indicates that only one account represents a single person or business.

Notability

Accounts that are eligible for verification must symbolize a well-known person or entity. According to Instagram's website, "notable" figures are those who have been published in several news outlets and have a well-known online presence.

With those fundamental prerequisites in mind, let's take a deeper look at the application procedure for Instagram verification.

The Instagram Verification Process

The application procedure is relatively straightforward, therefore it's critical that you invest time prior to applying to concentrating on the above qualifications. Here's what you should do next if you're confident in your profile's authenticity, completion, uniqueness, and notability.

• Log into your account. 
• Give your profile one last look to ensure it meets the above requirements.
• Navigate to your profile and tap the three lines in the upper right corner.
• Select "Settings," then "Account," and finally "Request Verification."
• Fill up your complete name and attach a proof of identification.
• Choose the public interest category in which your account falls.
• Describe your target audience.
• Include links to pages that explain why your account is important to the public.
• Click “Submit.”

That's all! After clicking the submit button, you will receive a response via the Instagram notifications page in around 30 days.

You may reapply for verification every 30 days, so if you don't get it the first time, spend the month focusing on improving your public image and obtaining news stories or other forms of notability. Then, follow the instructions mentioned above to reapply.

We wish you the best of success in obtaining that blue checkmark—we have faith in you!