For years, the blue tick was reserved for celebrities, politicians and big brands. Today there are two ways to get verified on Instagram in India: pay for a Meta Verified subscription, or qualify for free verification as a notable account. This guide explains both, so you can pick the right path.
Option 1: Meta Verified (Paid)
Meta Verified is a monthly subscription for creators and businesses. It confirms your identity and adds the blue badge, along with extras such as impersonation protection and access to support.
Price in India
When Meta Verified launched in India, it cost ₹699 per month on mobile (through the App Store or Play Store), with a cheaper web option announced at ₹599 per month. Prices and plans change over time, and business plans cost more, so check the current price under Accounts Centre → Meta Verified in the app.
Eligibility checklist
- Age: you must be at least 18.
- Activity: your account must meet minimum activity requirements, such as a history of posting.
- Government ID: your profile name must match your ID (for example Aadhaar, PAN or passport).
- Profile photo: it must clearly show your face for personal accounts.
- Two-factor authentication: must be turned on.
How to apply
- Open your profile and tap the menu (☰).
- Go to Accounts Centre → Meta Verified.
- Select the profile you want to verify and choose a plan.
- Upload your ID and complete payment.
- Wait for review, which can take a few days.
Important: after verification, changing your profile name, username or photo may remove the badge until you verify again. Finalise your branding before applying.
Option 2: Free Verification for Notable Accounts
Instagram still verifies accounts that are "notable" for free. You apply under Settings → Account type and tools → Request verification. Instagram looks at four things:
- Authentic: a real person, registered business or entity.
- Unique: the only account for that person or business.
- Complete: public, with a bio, profile photo and recent activity.
- Notable: a well-known, highly searched person or brand.
Notability is the hard part. Instagram looks for coverage in multiple independent, reputable news sources. Paid or promotional articles do not count. If you are rejected, you can apply again after 30 days.
Which Option Is Right for You?
| Meta Verified | Notable verification | |
|---|---|---|
| Cost | Monthly fee | Free |
| Requirements | ID, activity, 2FA | Significant press coverage |
| Speed | Usually days | Uncertain; many rejections |
| Best for | Creators and businesses wanting trust and protection | Public figures and well-known brands |
Does Verification Increase Reach?
Do not expect the badge alone to make you go viral. It mainly adds trust and protection against impersonation. Reach still depends on content quality and how viewers react. Read how the Instagram algorithm works for what actually drives distribution.
Prepare Your Profile Before Applying
- Use a clear photo and your real name (plus a keyword if you like)
- Write a bio that explains who you are; see our bio ideas
- Post regularly for a few months beforehand
- Link your website or other official profiles
Beware of Verification Scams
Instagram will never DM you asking for a fee or your password to verify you. Ignore messages from "Instagram Support" accounts or anyone selling a blue tick. The only legitimate paid route is Meta Verified inside the app.
Credibility Beyond the Badge
A blue tick on an account with 50 followers can look odd to visitors. Followers, engagement and content quality are what convince people and brands. If you plan to monetise, see how to earn money on Instagram in India and why 1,000 followers matters.
Build credibility before you apply.
Grow your follower base with our free trial.