Instagram Identity Check: Preparing for a Video Selfie or ID Request
Quick answer: Complete an identity check only when it is offered through Instagram’s verified flow. Follow the instructions on that screen and do not assume every account is eligible for the same method.
Understand the issue
Identity requests depend on the account and situation. Instagram may offer a video selfie or document review in some flows. A video selfie is not automatically available to every user, and no one should promise it will pass.
Steps to take
Use only the prompt presented within Instagram or its verified account recovery flow. Follow the lighting and framing instructions shown. Use accurate documents when requested and make sure the information is consistent with your real identity. Keep a record of the verification date without exposing the submitted ID publicly.
Prepare without exposing your identity
Before starting, check that you are using the correct account and can receive follow-up messages through the contact method shown. Allow enough time to finish the prompted steps without switching between unrelated recovery attempts.
For a video request, follow the current capture instructions rather than a third-party “passing technique.” For a document request, use truthful information and read which document types the actual prompt accepts. Do not alter identity details to make them match a story in an appeal.
Keep a note of when the check was submitted and any confirmation, but avoid making extra copies of the identity material. If someone offers to complete the check for you or asks you to email an ID to a personal address, stop and verify the route independently. The purpose of the check is ownership or identity assessment, not a payment to an intermediary.
If the first step does not resolve it
If verification fails, check for explicit retry instructions and correct avoidable issues such as poor lighting or inconsistent details. Don't keep experimenting with altered documents. If the account represents a business, clarify whether the request concerns the person operating the profile or the legal business entity.
Avoid this mistake
Do not send ID photos to a random email or freelancer who claims they can 'preapprove' them.
Frequently asked questions
Can another person complete my video selfie?
No. Identity verification should be completed honestly by the person the platform asks to verify.
Does submitting a video selfie guarantee recovery?
No. It is a verification step where offered, not a promise that all other account issues will be resolved.
Contact BanUnban
Email the wording of the verification request if it is unclear. Do not attach an ID image or a video selfie to your inquiry.
Related reading
For a different issue, read our guide to unavailable recovery contact methods.
Official sources and verification
Guidance is limited to the sources and options available. Platform screens, eligibility and outcomes vary.