How to Add a Link to an Instagram Story

Not everyone can add links to stories, but if you can, it's easy

by
Jerri Ledford
Jerri Ledford
Writer, Editor
Jerri L. Ledford has been writing about technology since 1994. Her work has appeared in Computerworld, PC Magazine, Information Today, and many others.
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Jerri Ledford
Updated on October 01, 2020
reviewed by
Jessica Kormos
Jessica Kormos
Lifewire Technology Review Board Member
Jessica Kormos is a writer and editor with 15 years' experience writing articles, copy, and UX content for Tecca.com, Rosenfeld Media, and many others.
our review board
Article reviewed on Jan 27, 2021
Jessica Kormos

What to Know

  • To add a link to an Instagram story, you must either have 10,000 followers or be a verified Instagram user.
  • Tap to Add a Story > select or record a video > click the link icon > URL > type or paste the URL. 
  • When you share your story, followers get a See More option. They can swipe up to access the link.

This article explains who can add a link to an Instagram Story and how to do it. It also covers how to apply to be a verified user on Instagram.

How to Post a Link on an Instagram Story

If you have at least 10,000 followers or are a verified Instagram user, you can add a link to your story to promote your website, blog, or even a YouTube channel.

  1. In the Instagram app, tap to Add a Story.

  2. Select or record the video you want to add to your story. To select multiple items, tap and hold the first item.

    You can also select multiple still photos, and Instagram rolls through them during the story, giving each one a set amount of time to show.

  3. Once you make your selections, you move on to the editing screen where you can add filters, sound, links, stickers, drawings, text, and more.

    Screenshots showing how to add Instagram Story links.

  4. Click the link icon at the top of the page and then click URL.

  5. Type or paste the URL into the field provided and then click Done.

  6. When you share your story, there's a See More option at the bottom of the page where users can "swipe up" to see the clickable link.

How to Get Verified on Instagram

Being verified is a feature reserved for accounts that are "the authentic presence of a notable public figure, celebrity, global brand, or entity it represents." Getting verified is difficult, but you can request the coveted blue checkmark on Instagram if you feel you qualify. Here's how:

  1. In the Instagram app, tap your profile picture.

  2. In your Profile, tap the hamburger menu in the upper right corner.

  3. Select Settings at the bottom of the menu.

    Screenshots showing the location of Settings in Instagram.

  4. In Settings, choose Account.

  5. On the Account menu, tap Request Verification.

  6. On the Apply for Instagram Verification page, enter your Username, Full Name, and Known As handles in the field provided.

    Screenshots showing the options to request verification on Instagram.

  7. Then tap Category and tap the category that best fits your Instagram page.

  8. In the line that reads, "Please attach a photo of your ID," tap choose file and select or take a picture of your photo ID to upload it.

    The category and photo ID options for verifying an Instagram account.

  9. Once all the information is complete and uploaded, you see the Send link at the bottom of the page brighten up. Tap it to submit your verification. Then wait until you get a response. It can take about 30 days for Instagram to review your account.

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