Bluesky Opens Up Verification for Notable Users and Organizations

Bluesky has launched a new verification process that now allows applications from users considered “notable and authentic.” The announcement was shared by the Bluesky Safety account, introducing a public form for individuals and organizations to request verification.

In addition to user verification, Bluesky is offering organizations the ability to become Trusted Verifiers. These groups can verify other users and access special tools for that purpose. The company began testing this feature last month with a small number of partners, including The New York Times, Wired, and The Athletic.

However, not all Bluesky users are thrilled by the move. Some feel the blue badge introduces the same issues that existed on Twitter, where verification became a symbol of status and exclusivity. Under Elon Musk’s leadership, Twitter’s verification system turned into a feature reserved for paid subscribers, deepening a two-tier system among users.

Bluesky continues to support decentralized alternatives to traditional verification. Users can link a domain to their username, effectively self-verifying their identity. This method has been adopted by over 270,000 users so far. For instance, NPR uses the verified handle @npr.org.

The exact criteria for verification remain unclear. Bluesky’s online form lists a few basic requirements: accounts must be active, contain a complete profile (with bio and profile picture), and belong to a real person, business, or organization. Where applicable, an official website link should also be provided.

When it comes to determining notability, Bluesky considers recognition within a user’s field or region. The form suggests submitting evidence such as media coverage, professional accolades, references on credible platforms, or other signs of public interest.

The company notes:

“We consider the overall context and public interest value of each account. Please provide links and evidence that can help us ensure that your account meets notability criteria.”

Applicants who are not selected will not receive a reply.

The rollout of verification could reshape Bluesky’s community dynamic. The platform has tried to distance itself from the hierarchies of Twitter/X and Threads, where verified status elevated certain users. Critics argue the verification feature would have been better received if the platform had first expanded its network of independent Trusted Verifiers.

Some users seeking a more democratic approach to verification are turning to Deer.Social, a forked version of Bluesky. It lets users choose whom they trust as verifiers and view others they’ve verified. This decentralized model enables anyone to become a verifier or get verified, without relying on a central authority.

While Bluesky’s new system may evolve over time, it represents a significant shift in how the platform is handling trust and identity on a broader scale.