How to Verify Your Google Business Profile in India (Video Verification Checklist)

Quick answer: Google chooses how you verify — usually a short continuous video in India, sometimes phone/SMS or email. For video, record in one take: start outside showing the street and a nearby landmark, then your signboard with the business name, walk inside showing products or equipment, and finish with proof you manage the business (unlocking the shop, opening the cash counter or showing a business document). Keep the video under about a minute, in good light, without edits.

Verification proves to Google that you are the real owner or manager. Until you verify, your profile may not appear reliably and many features stay locked.

Verification methods you may see

Method	How it works
Video recording	Record a continuous video of your location and proof of management, uploaded from the app
Phone / SMS	A code sent to the business phone number
Email	A code sent to a business email
Live video call	Rare; a call with Google support
Instant	Sometimes available if your website is already verified in Search Console

You cannot choose freely — Google shows the methods available for your profile.

Before you start

• Make sure the business name, address and category on the profile match your signboard and documents.
• Have permanent signage with your business name. Banners and temporary boards often cause rejection.
• Be at the business location during working hours.
• Use the Google Maps or Google app on your phone with the same account that manages the profile.

Video verification: shot-by-shot checklist

Record one continuous video (no cuts):

1. Street & surroundings — 5–10 seconds showing the road, nearby shops or a landmark.
2. Exterior & signboard — the full shop front with the business name clearly readable.
3. Address proof on site — a street sign, building name or shop number if available.
4. Walk inside — show the counter, products, equipment or workspace that proves the business type.
5. Proof of management — unlock the shutter, open the cash drawer, switch on the billing system, or show a business document such as GST certificate, Udyam certificate or shop licence (cover sensitive numbers if needed).

For service-area businesses without a shop (plumbers, electricians), show your vehicle with branding, your tools, and business documents.

Why verification gets rejected

• Business name in the profile does not match the signboard.
• No permanent signage, or the name is not visible.
• Video is edited, too dark, shaky or too short.
• Address cannot be matched to the video.
• Category or business type looks inconsistent with what is shown.
• Too many profile edits right before verification.

After verification

• Changes to key fields (name, address, category) may trigger re-verification — make changes carefully.
• Complete every field, upload photos, and start posting.
• Keep the account secure: add a second trusted owner/manager.

Frequently asked questions

How long does verification take in India?

After you submit a video, review usually takes a few days, though it can take longer. Avoid editing the profile while it is under review.

Can I verify a home-based business?

Yes, if it is a genuine business that serves customers. You can hide your address and set a service area if customers do not visit you.

My verification failed. Can I try again?

Yes. Fix the issue (signage, name match, better video) and retry. Google may offer a different method next time.

Do I need GST to verify?

GST is not mandatory, but business documents like GST, Udyam registration or a shop licence help prove management in the video.

Should I pay someone to verify my profile?

No. Verification is free and must be done by the real owner or manager. Never share your account password with strangers.