Meta introduces free Facebook verified badge

Meta is rolling out a free verification badge for Facebook users, allowing eligible individuals to verify their accounts without paying a subscription fee. 

The new feature is designed to confirm that an account belongs to a real person through a simplified identity verification process.

To receive the verified badge, users must apply directly through their Facebook account and submit a short selfie video. Meta will compare the video with the user's profile photo to verify their identity. If the verification is successful, the badge will be added to the account within minutes.

Eligibility Requirements

To qualify for the free verification badge, applicants must:

Be at least 18 years old.
Apply using a personal Facebook profile.
Have no history of fraud, impersonation, or violations of Facebook's Community Standards.

At launch, the feature is not available for Facebook Pages or Professional Mode accounts.

Where the Badge Will Appear

Once verification is complete, the badge will initially be displayed across several Facebook features, including user profiles, Facebook marketplace, Facebook groups, Facebook dating.

Meta says the badge will later be expanded to appear on posts in users' news feeds as the rollout continues.

Purpose of the Verification Badge

According to Meta, the free verified badge is intended to confirm that an account is operated by a real individual. However, the company emphasized that the badge does not indicate endorsement, official status, or guaranteed trustworthiness. Verified users will remain subject to the same Community Standards and platform policies as all other Facebook users.

Gradual Global Rollout

The feature is initially being introduced in selected countries as part of a phased rollout. Meta plans to expand the free verification program to additional regions over time, although it has not yet announced a timeline for global availability.