How Long Do Instagram Ads Take to Get Approved?

Many marketers and businesses face the frustrating confusion of waiting for their Instagram ads to be approved. This waiting time can disrupt schedules, delay campaigns, and lead to missed opportunities for audience engagement. Understanding "how long do Instagram ads take to get approved" is crucial for planning effective marketing strategies on this platform.

You’ll Learn

1. Approval Process Timeline: How long it usually takes for Instagram ads to get approved.
2. Factors Affecting Approval Time: What can speed up or delay the approval?
3. Tips for Quick Approval: How to expedite the review process.
4. Common Pitfalls: Why Instagram ads get rejected.
5. Tools and Resources: Recommendations to streamline your ad campaigns.

The Instagram Ad Approval Process

Instagram ads typically take from a few minutes to 24 hours to get approved. However, this timeline can vary considerably based on several factors. Here, we explore this process in detail.

How Long Do Instagram Ads Take to Get Approved?

Understanding the typical time it takes for Instagram ads to get approved helps in minimizing downtime. The process involves automated systems and manual reviews:

• Automated Systems: Instantly review ads for outright policy violations.
• Manual Review: Conducted by a human when the automated system flags an ad for compliance verification.

While many ads go live within a few hours, it's wise to allow for up to 24 hours. This buffer accounts for peak times when Instagram's queue of submissions grows.

Factors Influencing Approval Time

1. Compliance with Instagram’s Ad Policies: Ads strictly adhering to policies are less likely to face approval delays.

2. Content Complexity: Ads with heavy content or those dealing with complex issues (like political content) may require extended manual review.

3. Historical Account Performance: Brands with a history of policy violations may experience longer approval times as their content undergoes stricter scrutiny.

Streamlining the Approval Process

Proactive management can aid in faster approvals of Instagram ads. Here are strategies to quicken the approval process without compromising on quality:

1. Pre-Campaign Review: Ensure all ad content, including imagery, text, and landing pages, adhere to Instagram’s comprehensive ad policies.

2. Consistent Branding: Consistent use of recognized trademarks and logos can prevent ads from being flagged unnecessarily.

3. Engage with Ad Experts: Utilize Instagram ad managers or marketing professionals well-versed in compliance norms, especially for new campaigns.

4. Ad Scheduling: Submit ads well in advance of their intended start date to accommodate potential delays.

Common Reasons Ads Get Rejected

Instagram ads are rejected for numerous reasons. Knowing these can help avoid pitfalls:

• Violation of Community Standards: Ads not aligning with Instagram culture or promoting harmful behavior are likely rejected.

• Misleading Content: Avoid exaggerated claims that do not match the product performance to prevent the ads from being flagged as misleading.

• Inaccurate Targeting: Ensure accurate targeting settings that do not contravene privacy policies.

By understanding these, marketers can mitigate the risks of delayed campaigns.

Tools and Comparisons

Several tools can help streamline ad creation and approval, especially for larger campaigns or teams:

1. Facebook Ads Manager: As Instagram ads run through Facebook's platform, mastering Facebook Ads Manager is crucial for campaign success. Its interface helps marketers design ads compliant with Instagram standards.

2. Canva for Ad Design: Canva provides a rich library of templates that align with Instagram’s ad size requirements and aesthetic needs. It’s an excellent tool for crafting visually appealing ads quickly.

3. Hootsuite: Acts as a comprehensive social media management tool, allowing bulk scheduling and compliance checks to facilitate smoother ad approvals.

Real-world Application

Consider a medium-sized retail brand launching a seasonal campaign. By using the Facebook Ads Manager, the team can harness demographic data to create compliant, targeted ads. Utilizing Canva, the ad visuals align seamlessly with policy requirements, expediting approval.

FAQ Section

1. How can I check the status of my Instagram ad approval?

You can track the progress of your ad campaigns within the Facebook Ads Manager. Here, you’ll find real-time updates regarding the status of each ad and necessary changes if issues arise.

2. Why does it sometimes take longer than 24 hours for approval?

Certain elements, such as high volume submission times, require longer queue durations. Additionally, ads needing manual review can push approval times past 24 hours. Ensure compliance to reduce this delay.

3. Are there penalties for repeated ad rejections?

Yes, repeated violations can lead to account penalties or suspensions. Maintaining a good track record reduces the likelihood of stringent manual reviews, ultimately leading to faster ad approvals.

4. Can I fast-track an ad if it’s part of an urgent campaign?

Currently, Instagram does not have a provision to fast-track ads. Best practice suggests planning and submitting ads well before their intended publication date to avoid issues.

5. What should I do if my ad isn’t approved?

Review the disapproval notice, which usually contains the reason. Adjust the ad according to the feedback and submit again. This can often resolve issues promptly.

Summary

• Instagram ads generally take a few minutes to 24 hours to be approved.
• Several factors, including content complexity and historical performance, influence approval times.
• Best practices involve proactive reviews, consistent branding, expertise input, and submitting ads early.
• Common pitfalls include policy violations, misleading content, and inaccurate targeting.
• Tools like Facebook Ads Manager, Canva, and Hootsuite are useful for creating compliant ads.

Understanding these considerations can significantly enhance the effectiveness of your Instagram advertising strategy. Being informed reduces guesswork, saves time, and maximizes your chance to engage effectively with your target audience. Whether it's a small scale ad or a major campaign, knowing "how long do Instagram ads take to get approved" arms your business with the foresight needed for digital marketing success.