Why Instagram Is Asking to Verify Your Identity

Quick Answer in 2 Minutes

Instagram’s request for identity verification can appear suddenly – and it often causes concern. However, it’s usually a standard security check, not an account lock. If the system says you need to confirm your identity, it means the algorithms have detected unusual activity or a change in login location.

What to check immediately:

• Have you recently changed your device, IP, or used a VPN? This often triggers the request.
• Your account hasn’t received reports or violated posting guidelines.
• Your email address and phone number are confirmed.

Device synchronization mini-checklist:

• Time and time zone are set to “Automatic.”
• VPN/Proxy are disabled during verification.
• Network is stable, without switching between Wi-Fi ↔ LTE during upload.

Next, check action limits and the app cache – clear it, restart Instagram, and retry the upload during the same activity window. Track metrics after publishing: reach, saves, profile visits. If you need to accelerate initial signals to test hypotheses, carefully apply a targeted boost for specific geo and topics – buy Instagram promotion as a soft launch, but base final conclusions on organic performance in the same time slots.

Reasons Why Instagram Asks for Identity Verification

Why is account verification required? Instagram’s algorithms react to any sudden behavioral changes. This could be logging in from a new phone, a report, a password change, or activity that resembles automation.

Top reasons:

1. Suspicious activity and sudden IP change.
2. Violations of rules or mass reports on content.
3. Mismatch between name, date of birth, and payment data.
4. Mass logins via third-party apps – disable them in the “Apps and Websites” section.
5. Mismatch between profile date of birth/name and advertising data.

If none of this applies to you – the system is simply verifying you are the owner. Usually, confirming via a code or document is sufficient.

Once the verification is passed, access is restored, and you’re back in control, you can focus on useful upgrades without unnecessary costs. We explore legal options – trial periods, corporate giveaways, carrier promotions, and gift links from friends – in the article «How to Get Telegram Premium for Free», to avoid gray-area schemes and not risk your account.

Types of Identity Verification and What They Mean

Instagram uses several levels of verification depending on the perceived risk.

• SMS code or email. Verifies access to linked contact details.
• Documents: Passport, ID, driver’s license. Required if data mismatches or reports exist.
• Video selfie. Biometric check: the system compares your face with profile photos and document data.

How to Pass Instagram Identity Verification Step-by-Step

The check is quick if everything is entered correctly. Below are two scenarios – for a code and for video.

1. Via SMS or email:

1. Choose a confirmation method.
2. Receive the code via SMS or email.
3. Enter the code in the confirmation field.
4. Wait for the successful login notification.

2. Via video selfie:

1. Grant camera access.
2. Follow on-screen instructions, keep your face centered.
3. Record a short video without filters or effects.
4. Wait for the result (from a few minutes to 48 hours).

If there’s no response for more than 2 days – submit an appeal via the support form.

Document Preparation Checklist

Before uploading, ensure the data is legible and matches your profile.

What to prepare for upload:

• Government-issued photo ID.
• Name, date of birth, and photo must be clearly visible.
• Do not edit or blur mandatory fields, as required by the form.
• Photo without glares, filters, or cropping.

How to photograph:

• Flat, on a contrasting background.
• No fingers in the frame.
• No watermarks or editing.

Common Verification Problems and Quick Solutions

Sometimes Instagram identity verification fails due to minor issues: glare on the photo, unstable internet, or an outdated app. Check the table below.

Security and Privacy When Sending Documents

Instagram states that materials are used for verification and are not published. Photos are seen only by support staff during the check. However, avoid storing copies on public devices or sending them via messengers.

Important: Do not hide mandatory fields (name, date, photo) if the form requires them visible. Excessive edits may cause rejection.

How to Reduce the Chance of Repeat Requests

How to avoid repeated verification? It’s simple – maintain consistent account behavior.

Prevention checklist:

• Log in from a consistent IP and device.
• Confirm your email and phone number.
• Enable two-factor authentication (2FA).
• Ensure the name and date in your profile match your documents.

Business Accounts, Ads, and Shopping: Separate Requirements

Verification for advertising and shopping is stricter than for personal profiles. When connecting a Meta Shop or ad account, Instagram may request legal documents.

When this happens:

• Connecting Business Manager and launching ads.
• Domain verification and legal address confirmation.
• Brand ownership verification when filing reports.

Recovery If Access Is Restricted

If you can’t log in after a failed check – use the appeal process. On the login page, select “Need help” and fill out the form.

24-hour mini-plan:

1. Prepare a photo ID document.
2. Fill out the support form.
3. Check email and spam every 2-3 hours.
4. Repeat the procedure via web if the mobile version is stuck.

FAQ – Ready Q&A Block

Why does Instagram request identity verification
Most often due to IP or device change, reports, data mismatch, or ad launch. Check restrictions, confirm via app or web, use a legible document, and a stable network.

How to pass identity verification without a passport
Use a driver’s license, ID, or code via email/SMS if an alternative is available. Video selfie also works if documents are temporarily unavailable.

How many times can Instagram ask for verification and how to reduce it
The request can repeat with IP/device change or suspicious activity. To avoid – log in from one network, keep data updated, and enable 2FA.

How long does document verification take
From a few minutes to 48 hours. If no response, repeat the procedure at another time and via another channel.

What to do if you don’t have a photo ID
Use alternative methods – code via email or SMS, if the system offers them.

Is it safe to send a document to Instagram
Instagram states that materials are used only for identity verification. Take photos without hiding mandatory fields and without editing.