How to Get Verified on Instagram in 2026: Free & Paid Methods
The complete guide to getting your blue checkmark—whether through traditional verification or Meta Verified subscription.
Social Media Strategist
Last updated: January 30, 2026
Verification Overview
📖 What is Instagram Verification?
The blue checkmark next to an Instagram username confirms that the account is the authentic presence of a notable public figure, celebrity, brand, or entity. It's a trust signal that helps users identify real accounts from impersonators.
In 2026, Instagram offers two distinct paths to verification:
Traditional (Free)
Application-based verification requiring proof of notability. No cost, but harder to qualify.
Meta Verified (Paid)
Subscription service requiring ID verification. No notability needed. Extra perks included.
Both methods provide the same blue checkmark badge—there's no visual difference between a traditional verified account and a Meta Verified subscriber.
Traditional Verification (Free)
Traditional verification has been Instagram's original system since 2014. It's completely free but requires meeting strict notability criteria.
The Five Requirements
1. Authentic
Must represent a real person, registered business, or organization. Requires official identification.
2. Unique
Only one account per person or business can be verified. Rare exceptions for language-specific versions.
3. Complete
Account must have a profile photo, bio, and at least one post before applying.
4. Public and Active
Your account must be public (not private) and demonstrate consistent engagement and activity.
5. Notable
The hardest requirement. You must be featured in multiple news sources or have a strong presence in public conversations. You don't need to be "famous," but you need to be "known."
⚠️ What Counts as "Notable"?
Instagram looks for coverage in news publications, Wikipedia pages, press mentions, and media appearances. Paid promotional articles don't count. Social media following alone doesn't prove notability—you need external validation.
Meta Verified (Paid)
Launched in 2023, Meta Verified is a subscription service that provides verification without requiring notability. It's designed for creators, businesses, and individuals who want the badge but don't meet traditional criteria.
Eligibility Requirements
Be at least 18 years old
Have a public account with a profile photo, name, and recent activity
Profile name must match (or be similar to) your government-issued ID
Abbreviations and minor spelling variations are acceptable
Enable two-factor authentication (2FA)
Be located in a country where Meta Verified is available
Pricing
| Payment Method | Monthly Cost | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| iOS/Android App | $14.99/month | App store fees included |
| Web (Desktop) | $11.99/month | Cheaper—no app store cut |
Additional Benefits
Proactive Account Protection
Enhanced monitoring against impersonation
Direct Support Access
Real human support for account issues
Exclusive Features
Stickers, Reels features (varies by region)
Increased Visibility
Potentially boosted reach (unconfirmed)
Free vs Paid Comparison
| Factor | Traditional (Free) | Meta Verified (Paid) |
|---|---|---|
| Cost | $0 | $11.99-$14.99/month |
| Notability Required | Yes (press, media coverage) | No |
| ID Verification | Yes | Yes |
| Approval Time | Days to weeks | Hours to 48 hours |
| Blue Checkmark | Yes ✓ | Yes ✓ |
| Direct Support | No | Yes |
| Impersonation Protection | Standard | Enhanced/Proactive |
| Reapply After Denial | 30-day wait | Immediate (if issue fixed) |
💡 Bottom Line
If you have press coverage and notability, apply for free traditional verification first. If you're rejected or don't qualify, Meta Verified is a reliable alternative that guarantees the badge for anyone with valid ID.
Detailed Requirements
Acceptable ID Documents
✓ Passport
✓ Driver's License
✓ Government ID Card
✓ National ID
For Business Accounts (Traditional)
• Official business registration documents
• Tax documents showing business name
• Utility bills showing business address
• Articles of incorporation
How to Apply
Traditional Verification Application
Go to Settings → Account → Request Verification
On mobile app: Profile → Menu → Settings → Account → Request Verification
Enter your legal name and select category
Categories: Public Figure, Sports, News, Entertainment, etc.
Upload your government-issued ID
Provide links to articles proving notability
Use links to news articles, Wikipedia, reputable publications
Submit and wait for review
Typically takes a few days to 2 weeks
Meta Verified Application
Go to Settings → Meta Verified
Or visit on web for cheaper pricing
Review subscription terms and pricing
Enable two-factor authentication (if not already)
Submit government ID (selfie verification may be required)
Complete payment
Badge usually appears within 48 hours
Tips to Increase Approval
For traditional verification (the free path), here's what actually helps:
Get Press Coverage
Articles in news publications, interviews, or features significantly increase approval odds. Even local news counts.
Build Wikipedia Presence
A Wikipedia page (if you meet notability guidelines) is strong evidence of public significance.
Complete Your Profile
Professional photo, complete bio, and consistent posting history demonstrate legitimacy.
Link Other Verified Accounts
If you're verified on Twitter/X, YouTube, or other platforms, mention this when applying.
Don't Pay Third Parties
Services claiming they can "get you verified" are scams. Only apply through official Instagram channels.
Don't Spam Applications
Wait the full 30 days between applications. Excessive requests may hurt your chances.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does Instagram verification cost?
Traditional Instagram verification is completely free but requires proving notability. Meta Verified is a paid subscription that costs approximately $14.99/month on mobile apps or $11.99/month through the web, though prices vary by region. Both methods provide the same blue checkmark badge.
What are the requirements for Instagram verification?
For traditional (free) verification: account must be authentic (real person/business), unique (one per entity), complete (photo, bio, posts), public, and notable (featured in news sources). For Meta Verified: be 18+, have a public account with activity, provide government ID matching your profile name, and enable two-factor authentication.
How long does Instagram verification take?
Traditional verification reviews typically take a few days to several weeks. Meta Verified approval is usually much faster—often within 48 hours after ID submission, sometimes as quick as a few hours.
Can I get verified without being famous?
Yes, through Meta Verified. The paid subscription doesn't require notability—just a valid government ID and an active public account. However, traditional free verification does require demonstrable notability in your field.
What's the difference between Meta Verified and traditional verification?
Both provide the same blue checkmark. Traditional verification is free but requires proving you're notable (press coverage, public presence). Meta Verified is a paid subscription ($11.99-14.99/month) that doesn't require notability—just ID verification and an active account. Meta Verified also includes extra features like proactive account protection and direct support access.
Can business accounts get Meta Verified?
Meta has been expanding Meta Verified to include business accounts in many regions. Check your settings to see if the option is available. Business accounts can also pursue traditional verification with business registration documents.
Build Your Instagram Presence First
Verification is easier when you have a strong account. ShadowPhone helps you grow authentic engagement that makes your profile verification-worthy.