Verification on Facebook

A verified badge on Facebook means that the platform has confirmed your Page or profile is the authentic presence of a public figure, brand, or entity it represents. Verification enhances credibility, helps users identify genuine content, and is essential for well-known businesses and individuals aiming to build trust with their audience. Below, we cover the latest process, criteria, and best practices for getting verified on Facebook, along with important do's and don'ts.

Understanding Facebook Verification

What is a Verification Badge?

A verification badge is a blue checkmark that appears next to the name of a Facebook Page or profile. This badge signifies that Facebook has confirmed the authenticity of the Page or profile as a recognized public figure, celebrity, brand, or entity.

Why Get Verified?

Credibility: Verification adds credibility, showing that your brand or personal profile is authentic.
Visibility: Verified accounts often receive higher engagement rates because users can trust the legitimacy of the content.
Protection Against Impersonation: It ensures that users are not misled by fake accounts or imposters.

How to Request a Verification Badge

To verify your Facebook Page or profile, follow these steps:

Go to the Verification Request Form: Access it at Facebook Verification Form.
Provide Required Documentation: Depending on the type of account, you may need to submit:
- Government-issued ID: (e.g., driver’s license, passport).
- Business documentation: (e.g., utility bills, tax filings, business license).
Link to Authentic Sources: Provide links to official websites or articles where your profile or brand has been mentioned, especially by reputable news organizations.
Submit Your Request: Fill out the form, submit the necessary documents, and await Facebook's decision. Typically, Facebook will notify you within a few days.

Facebook Verification Criteria

Your Page or profile must meet Facebook’s verification requirements, which include:

Authentic

Your account must represent a real person, registered business, or recognized entity.

Unique

Only one Page or profile per person or business can be verified, with some exceptions for language-specific Pages.
General interest Pages, such as those representing topics or interests (e.g., “Cute Puppies”), are not eligible.

Complete

Your Page or profile must be complete. This includes:

A profile photo.
A cover photo.
An informative about section.
Recent activity, with at least one post.

Notable

Your account must represent a well-known, often searched person, brand, or entity.
Facebook verifies accounts that are featured in multiple news sources. Note that paid or promotional content is not considered valid for this review.

Best Practices for Facebook Verification

Optimize Your Page or Profile

Complete Every Detail: Make sure all fields in your profile are filled out. Include contact information, an about section, links to your official website, and other relevant details.
Regular Updates: Maintain a consistent posting schedule to show that your Page or profile is active and engaging with followers.
Use High-Quality Visuals: Ensure you have a professional and recognizable profile picture and cover photo that align with your brand identity.

Increase Your Visibility

Get Media Coverage: Aim to be mentioned in credible news articles, as Facebook prioritizes notable accounts with organic media visibility.
Engage with Your Audience: Respond to comments and messages. High engagement levels indicate authenticity and are a positive factor during the verification process.

Ensure Consistency Across Platforms

Ensure your branding and information are consistent across your social media platforms, official website, and other online presences.
Verify other social platforms (like Instagram or Twitter) to build more authority and increase the likelihood of Facebook verification

Do's and Don'ts for Facebook Verification

Do's

Do provide all the required documentation clearly and accurately when submitting your verification request.
Do ensure your Page or profile is complete with current, relevant information, including a link to your official website.
Do share content that establishes your public presence, such as partnerships, press releases, or endorsements by established entities.
Do remain patient—Facebook’s verification process can take time, and repeated submissions may delay your review.

Don'ts

Don't submit multiple verification requests before receiving a decision. Doing so can cancel your current application.
Don't change your username or other key details after getting verified, as it may lead to removal of the verification badge.
Don't misrepresent yourself or provide fake documents—this will result in the denial of your request and potentially more severe account actions.
Don't rely on paid promotions as evidence for verification—Facebook only considers organic coverage by reputable media outlets.

Troubleshooting and Additional Information

What If You Are Denied Verification?

Review Facebook’s Feedback: Facebook will often indicate why a verification request was denied.
Make Improvements: Address the points mentioned, such as adding more content, getting more media coverage, or completing missing sections of your Page or profile.
Reapply: After making significant improvements, you can reapply. Wait 30 days before reapplying to avoid automatic rejections.

Maintaining Your Verified Status

Once verified, you must maintain an active and complete account. Avoid long periods of inactivity and ensure your Page or profile information remains accurate and updated.
No Transfers: The verified badge cannot be transferred to a different account, and changing usernames or merging with other Pages may result in losing the badge.