October 19, 2026
Google Business Profile Video Verification: What to Show
Guidance checked on 19 October 2026.
Google may ask for a video before it verifies a Business Profile. A useful recording is not a sales video. It is a short evidence trail that connects the listed location, a real operating business and the person who manages it. Planning that route before you tap record can prevent missed details and unnecessary exposure of private information.
Use the verification method shown on your profile
Google determines which verification methods are available. The options can depend on the business type, public information, region or business hours, and some profiles may need more than one method. You cannot choose a method that Google has not offered. [2]
If Business video appears as an option, prepare for that exact workflow. Do not pay anyone for a promised shortcut, and never share a verification code. This checklist helps you organize evidence; it does not guarantee approval.
Plan one route around three proof goals
Google's current video guidance asks the recording to establish three things: where the business operates, that the business genuinely exists, and that you manage or represent it. [1] Before recording, write one safe visual for each goal and arrange them into a route you can film without a break.
- Location: street signs, building numbers, nearby businesses or recognizable surroundings.
- Business activity: the storefront, workspace, products, professional tools or equipment that fit the listed category.
- Management: access to employee-only areas or business assets, such as unlocking the premises, opening a register or accessing a branded work vehicle.
Check lighting, mobile signal and access first. Move customer records, payment screens and personal documents out of view. Ask other people to stay outside the route.
For a storefront or hybrid business
Begin outside with enough surroundings to connect the recording to the map location. Show the permanent business sign and make sure the displayed name matches the Business Profile. Then continue inside and show a genuine operating area, followed by something that demonstrates management access. Google gives examples such as a cash register, kitchen, storage room or point-of-sale system. [1]
A sign alone does not show management, and a register alone does not establish the location. Keep all three proof goals in the same planned recording.
For a service-area business
If customers are not served at the business address, Google says not to add that address to the public profile. The verification video can still show nearby street signs or landmarks at the operating address, followed by relevant tools, equipment, workspace, business cards or branded apparel. Management proof can include performing the service, unlocking a branded vehicle or showing a non-sensitive permit, invoice or utility bill that matches the business name. [1]
Frame any document carefully. Show only the business evidence needed for verification, not account numbers, tax identifiers, customer details or other private data. For a separate check of public address and coverage settings, use our service-area and address checklist.
Record live and protect privacy
Google requires an unedited, unique and complete recording with no breaks. It must be at least 30 seconds long and recorded and uploaded from a mobile device through the Business Profile. Pre-recorded or offline videos cannot be uploaded later. [1]
Do not include bank, tax or identity numbers, private information about anyone, or other people's faces. Review the frame before starting and again before upload. A longer video is not automatically better; include the required evidence clearly without wandering into unrelated or private areas.
Upload and check the result
On the mobile Business Profile, choose Get verified, then Business video, follow the permission prompts, record, review and upload. Google says review can take up to five business days. A successful result verifies the business; an unsuccessful result should include reasons and lets you record a new video. [1]
If you see Review issues, use the stated reason as a gap list. Google gives examples such as a business name not visible on the storefront, no nearby area shown, or missing proof that the recorder is authorized to operate the business. Include both the evidence that worked the first time and the missing item in the replacement recording.
Keep ownership and access clear
Before verification, confirm that the correct person is signed in to the account associated with the profile. After verification, use profile roles instead of sharing account credentials. Our owner and manager access guide explains how to separate control from day-to-day management.
Keep an internal note with the profile, date submitted, method offered and review outcome. Do not store the video or sensitive documents in a general marketing folder. Verification confirms management of an eligible profile; it does not guarantee rankings, reviews or customer enquiries.