How to Get Verified on Instagram in 2026 (Real Checklist)

Instagram verification signals that an account is the authentic presence of a notable person or brand. There are two routes in 2026: the free "notability" badge and the paid Meta Verified subscription. This guide covers the free one, which still carries the most weight.

Eligibility checklist

• Your account is public and complete (photo, bio, at least a few posts).
• It represents a real person, registered business or entity.
• It's unique — one account per person/brand.
• It's notable — searched for, and featured in several independent news sources (not paid or promotional).

Step by step

1. Go to Settings → Account type and tools → Request verification.
2. Submit a government ID (person) or official document (business).
3. Add links to articles and coverage that show you're in the public interest.
4. Submit once and wait — reapply after 30 days if declined.

How authority signals help

Reviewers look for an account that already looks established — real reach, steady engagement and a following that matches your public profile. A thin, inactive account rarely reads as "notable," even when the person is.

Building genuine presence — real followers and consistent engagement — won't hand you a check by itself, but it removes the easiest reason to say no.