In some cases, Google may require video verification before approving or re-verifying a Google Business Profile.

The purpose of the video is to demonstrate that your business actually exists at the listed location and that the person completing the verification is authorized to manage the business.

Here are some simple tips to help businesses with a physical location successfully complete the verification process.

Before You Start

Google requires the video to be:

• Recorded live from a mobile device.

• One continuous recording, without cuts or editing.

• At least 30 seconds long.

• Recorded and submitted directly through your Google Business Profile.

You cannot record the video ahead of time using your phone's camera and upload it later.

Before starting, Google may also request permission to access your phone's camera, microphone, and location.

1. Start by Showing the Surrounding Area

A good practice is to begin your video outside the business.

Show elements that help Google confirm the business location, such as:

• Street name.

• Building or suite number.

• Nearby businesses.

• Intersections or recognizable landmarks.

• The exterior of your business.

This helps Google connect your business with the location listed on Google Maps.

2. Clearly Show Your Business Sign

For businesses that serve customers at a physical location, it is especially important to show the permanent business name or signage displayed at the location.

The sign may be located on:

• The exterior of the building.

• A storefront window.

• The entrance.

• A wall or other permanent structure.

The business name shown should match the name listed on your Google Business Profile.

Tip: If the sign is difficult to read, too far away, or poorly lit, move closer and make sure the business name can be clearly seen in the video.

3. Enter the Business Without Stopping the Recording

Continue recording as you move from the outside into the business.

Briefly show areas that demonstrate that the business is actively operating, such as:

• Reception area.

• Customer service area.

• Offices.

• Products.

• Business equipment.

• Kitchen or preparation areas, if applicable.

• Tools related to the services your business provides.

You do not need to give Google a complete tour of the business. The goal is simply to demonstrate that a real business is operating at that location.

4. Show That You Have Access to the Business

This is one of the most important parts of the verification.

Google also needs evidence that the person recording the video works for the business or is authorized to manage it.

You can demonstrate this by performing an action that normally only an employee or owner could perform, such as:

• Unlocking the business entrance with a key.

• Entering an employee-only area.

• Opening a cash register.

• Accessing a storage area.

• Using the point-of-sale (POS) system.

• Entering a kitchen, office, or other restricted area.

Example of a Good Video

A simple verification video could follow this route:

Street → building number → storefront → business sign → entrance → work area → cash register or employee-only area.

Everything should be shown in one continuous recording.

Avoid These Common Mistakes

During the video:

• Do not make cuts or edit the recording.

• Do not use a previously recorded video.

• Avoid showing other people's faces.

• Do not show bank account numbers, identification documents, tax numbers, or other sensitive information.

• Make sure the business sign and business name are clearly visible.

• Do not forget to show the surrounding area.

• Do not end the video without demonstrating that you have access to or authority over the business.

How Do You Submit the Video?

From your mobile device:

1. Access your Google Business Profile.

2. Select Get verified.

3. Select Business video.

4. Review Google's instructions.

5. Select Start recording.

6. Complete your walkthrough.

7. Review the video.

8. Select Upload video.

Google states that the review process can take up to 5 business days.

If your video is rejected, Google will generally indicate which requirement could not be verified. Examples may include:

• The business name was not visible on the storefront.

• The surrounding area was not shown clearly enough.

• The video did not demonstrate authorization to manage the business.

You can then record a new video and correct the issues identified by Google.

Final Tip

Before selecting “Start recording,” decide exactly where you will walk and what you will show.

Ideally, your video should clearly demonstrate three things:

Where the business is located + that the business actually exists + that you are authorized to operate or manage it.

Planning the route before you start can make the process much easier and reduce the chances of having to repeat the verification.

This guide is based on Google's current requirements for Google Business Profile video verification.