Why This 2024 Update Matters
Ever searched for something on Google and seen Instagram posts in the results? That’s not a fluke — it’s the result of the Instagram update new version rolled out in July 2024, which now allows public Instagram profiles and posts to be indexed by Google Search.
If you’re a creator, brand, or business wondering how to get Instagram on Google Search, this is your moment. The update changes how Google handles Instagram URLs, and it means your content has the potential to rank on Google, if optimized correctly.
Let’s break it all down and help you make your Instagram profile Google-search friendly.
What is the Instagram Google Indexing Update (July 2024)?
In July 2024, Meta and Google announced a quiet but powerful change: public Instagram profiles, reels, and images are now eligible to be crawled and indexed by Google Search.
Before this, Instagram content was largely behind a crawl wall due to JavaScript rendering and limited data sharing. But the new Instagram update provides cleaner, crawlable URLs and richer metadata, allowing Google to:
- Index public Instagram profiles
- Show reels and image posts in search
- Enhance visibility for creator and business accounts
This change is great news if you’ve ever wondered how to get Instagram profile indexed by Google or why do my Google searches show up on Instagram.
Why Does It Matter for Creators and Brands?
If you’re a social media manager, small business owner, or creator, here’s why you should care:
- Better discoverability: Your profile and content can rank on Google
- Cross-channel visibility: Google traffic + Instagram engagement
- Brand authority: More branded search presence
- Own your SERP space: Show up when users search your business or name
For anyone asking how to search an Instagram account on Google — this update makes it a lot easier for searchers and brands alike.
Step-by-Step: How to Get Your Instagram Profile & Posts Indexed by Google
Here’s exactly how to get Instagram on Google Search in 2024:
1. Set Your Profile to Public
- Go to Settings → Privacy → Account Privacy
- Make sure the “Private account” toggle is off
🔒 Only public profiles are eligible for Google indexing.
2. Use Keywords in Your Bio
- Add relevant keywords in your name and bio
- Example:
“Digital Marketing Strategist | Hyderabad | Reels Expert”
| 💡Tip: Google treats this bio as metadata for your Instagram URL. |
3. Write Keyword-Rich Captions
Google reads your captions. Use relevant terms:
- Use niche, searchable phrases
- Include your location, service, or product category
4. Link to Your Instagram from Other Platforms
- Add your Instagram link to:
- Your website footer or bio
- Your YouTube channel or Medium profile
- Business directories or guest blogs
🔗 Backlinks help Google crawl your profile faster.
5. Make Sure Mobile & Desktop Views Are Crawlable
- View your Instagram profile from an incognito tab (mobile and desktop)
- If it loads without login or error screens, Google can likely crawl it
6. Use Structured, Shareable Links
Instead of messy URLs, share links like:
| https://instagram.com/yourusername https://instagram.com/p/POSTID/ |
Avoid using link shorteners that block bots.
❌ Don’ts
- Don’t keyword-stuff your bio or captions
- Don’t set age restrictions on your profile
- Don’t rely on hashtags alone for visibility
How to Check If Your Instagram Is Indexed on Google
Want to confirm whether your profile or post is visible?
Try this:
| site:instagram.com yourusername |
Or for posts:
| site:instagram.com/p/ “keyword or caption phrase” |
If nothing shows, it means Google hasn’t indexed it yet — time to optimize!
How to Remove Your Instagram Profile from Google Search (Optional Privacy Part)
Not everyone wants to show up on Google. Here’s how to remove your Instagram profile from Google search:
- Set your profile to Private
- Remove external links pointing to your profile
- Use robots.txt or request URL removal (if on your own website)
- Fill out Google’s URL Removal Tool:
https://search.google.com/search-console/remove-outdated-content
| 💡Tip: If you’re asking how to remove my Instagram account from Google search, remember — the profile must be public to appear, so setting it private is the simplest fix. |
Best Practices to Boost Instagram Visibility on Google
To fully benefit from the google search Instagram integration, follow these:
Use Alt Text for Images
Instagram lets you add custom alt text for posts. Use it to describe your content with keywords.
Add Location Tags
Tagging your city or area (like “Hyderabad” or “Kondapur Cafe”) can rank in local image searches.
Use Trending But Relevant Hashtags
- Combine broad + niche + branded hashtags
- Avoid banned or misleading tags
Link Instagram on Your Website
Make sure your website footer, bio, & contact page all link to your IG profile.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I control what Instagram posts show on Google? +
Why is my profile not showing up even after the update? +
Can I remove individual posts from Google search? +
Conclusion: Instagram + Google = Your Visibility Upgrade
Instagram’s integration with Google is a game-changer, especially for creators, businesses, and marketers trying to own their online presence.
By optimizing your bio, captions, links, and visibility settings, you can get your Instagram profile indexed by Google and attract a new audience outside the app.
Start today — because Google on Instagram is the new search formula.
👉 Want to strengthen your full digital presence across platforms? Explore how we help brands grow through creative digital marketing strategies at Raiseup Digital.