If you’ve been trying to use Facebook Dating but can’t seem to access the feature or don’t know how to set it up, you’re not alone. Many users struggle to find the Dating icon, verify their information, or customize their profile correctly. Facebook Dating is an incredible platform when used properly, but to unlock it, you must first enable the feature and set up your account the right way.
This detailed guide walks you through how to enable Facebook Dating, how to verify your account, and how to customize your Dating profile for better matches. Whether you’re new to Facebook Dating or you want to upgrade your existing profile, this guide gives you everything you need
What Is Facebook Dating and Why You Need to Enable It Properly
Facebook Dating is a built-in matchmaking tool that connects you with singles based on your interests, location, lifestyle, and activity on Facebook. It lives inside the Facebook app, there’s no separate app to download.
But here’s the catch:
You won’t see or use Facebook Dating until you enable it manually and set up your profile.
Enabling Facebook Dating is essential because it:
- Activates the Dating icon (heart symbol)
- Unlocks your private dating profile
- Allows you to match with singles near you
- Lets you customize preferences for more accurate matches
If you’re serious about connecting with genuine singles, you must know how to turn it on the right way.
Why You Can’t Access Facebook Dating (Before Enabling It)
Before enabling Facebook Dating, you need to understand why the feature may not show up in your app. These are the most common reasons users fail to access it:
1. Your Facebook App Is Outdated
Older app versions don’t support Dating.
2. You’re Not in a Supported Country
Facebook Dating is available in many regions, but not everywhere.
3. You Are Under 18 Years Old
You must be at least 18 to use Facebook Dating.
4. Your Location Services Are Disabled
Facebook Dating requires active location access.
5. You Previously Deleted Your Dating Profile
It takes 7 days before you can create a new one.
6. Account Restrictions or Policy Violations
If your Facebook account is restricted, Dating won’t appear.
7. You’re Using Facebook Lite Or Mobile Browser
Facebook Dating only works on the main Facebook app.
Once these issues are resolved, you’re ready to enable the feature.
How to Enable Facebook Dating (Step-by-Step Guide)
Enabling Facebook Dating involves three key stages:
- Preparing your account
- Activating the Dating icon
- Setting up your dating profile
Let’s break each one down.
Step 1: Update Your Facebook App
To enable Facebook Dating, you must run the latest version of the app.
On Android:
- Open Google Play Store
- Search for Facebook
- Tap Update
On iPhone (iOS):
- Open App Store
- Search for Facebook
- Tap Update
Once you update the app, close and reopen it.
Step 2: Turn On Location Services
Facebook Dating requires your location to show nearby singles.
Enable Location on Android:
- Go to Settings → Apps → Facebook → Permissions → Location → Allow
Enable Location on iPhone:
- Go to Settings → Facebook → Location → While Using the App
Without location access, the Dating icon will stay hidden.
Step 3: Open the Facebook Menu and Look for the Dating Icon
Now that your app is updated and location is active:
- Open Facebook App
- Tap the Menu (three horizontal lines)
- Scroll down and look for the heart icon labeled “Dating”
If the icon is visible, tap it to begin setup.
If the Dating Icon Is Still Not Showing
Try these quick solutions:
- Log out and log back in
- Clear app cache (Android)
- Reinstall the Facebook app
- Restart your device
- Ensure your date of birth shows you’re above 18
- Verify that your region supports Facebook Dating
Once the icon appears, you can now enable the feature fully.
How to Verify Your Facebook Dating Account
Verification helps Facebook confirm that you’re a real user, not a fake profile. It also increases trust among potential matches.
There are two main types of verification:
1. Facebook Identity Verification
This helps confirm your authenticity and reduces the chances of duplicate or fake accounts. Facebook may require you to:
- Upload a clear selfie
- Take a short video for face verification
- Confirm your full name and date of birth
- Verify your phone number
This verification is optional in many countries but recommended.
2. Profile Verification (To Prove Your Photos Are Real)
Facebook Dating allows users to verify their photos through:
- Photo comparison
- Selfie verification
- In-app prompts
This helps increase trust and match quality.
Tips to Get Verified Easily
- Use a well-lit environment
- Avoid filters
- Ensure your face matches your profile photos
- Follow on-screen instructions carefully
Once verified, you’ll see a verified badge, which increases your profile visibility.
How to Create and Customize Your Facebook Dating Profile
Enabling Facebook Dating is just the beginning. What truly matters is how well you customize your profile to attract serious matches.
Here’s a full breakdown of what to do.
Step-by-Step: Creating Your Dating Profile
After tapping the Dating icon:
- Click Get Started
- Enter your gender and interest preferences
- Upload photos
- Write your introduction
- Set your match preferences
- Confirm your location
Your Dating profile is private and separate from your main Facebook profile.
Choose the Right Profile Photos
Your pictures determine whether someone swipes or scrolls past.
Best photo tips:
- Use clear, recent photos
- Show your face in the first picture
- Include full-body shots
- Add lifestyle photos (travel, hobbies, events)
- Smile naturally
Avoid:
- Group photos
- Blurry images
- Heavy filters
- Old pictures
Facebook Dating allows up to 12 photos, so use them wisely
Write a Natural, Attractive Bio
Your bio should represent who you are and what you want.
Good bio examples:
“Easygoing and adventurous. I enjoy meaningful conversations and exploring new places. Looking for someone honest and intentional.”
“Focused, family-oriented, and ready for something real. Let’s build something lasting.”
What to Avoid:
- Cliché lines
- One-word descriptions
- Copy-and-paste messages
- AI-style robotic writing
Your bio is your voice—keep it real.
Customize Your Match Preferences
Facebook allows you to choose:
- Age range
- Distance
- Height (optional)
- Religion
- Children preference
- Interests
- Education level
- Lifestyle choices
The more accurate your preferences, the better your matches.
Take Advantage of The Features
Facebook Dating offers features that help you connect better:
1. Secret Crush
Add up to 9 Facebook or Instagram friends you’re interested in. If they add you too, it’s a match.
2. Groups and Events Matching
Meet singles who attend the same events or belong to similar groups.
This feature connects you with people who share your lifestyle and interests.
3. Liked You Section
See who has liked your profile and match instantly.
4. Prompts and Questions
Answer prompts like:
- “A perfect weekend for me is…”
- “Something I want to learn this year…”
- “My love language is…”
These help spark conversations naturally.
How to Make Your Profile More Attractive
Once your profile is live, here are ways to stand out:
✔ Update your photos regularly
✔ Keep your bio fresh and honest
✔ Respond to prompts creatively
✔ Be active daily
✔ Send natural, friendly first messages
✔ Select accurate match preferences
✔ Use video prompts if available
High-quality, genuine profiles attract better matches.
How to Turn Off, Pause, or Edit Your Dating Profile
Once enabled, you can always modify or deactivate your Dating profile.
To Pause:
- Open the Dating tab
- Go to Settings
- Select Pause Profile
Your profile will be hidden until you unpause it.
To Delete Your Dating Profile:
- Open Settings
- Tap Delete Profile
- Confirm your choice
Deleting your profile doesn’t delete your main Facebook account.
Troubleshooting: If Facebook Dating Stops Working
If the feature suddenly disappears:
✔ Update your Facebook app
✔ Re-enable your location
✔ Restart your device
✔ Check if your account was restricted
✔ Clear cache / reinstall the app
Most issues resolve with an update or location fix.
Finally
Facebook Dating is one of the fastest-growing platforms for meeting genuine singles ,but only if you know how to enable and customize it properly. Once the Dating icon appears, take your time to verify your account, build a strong profile, and personalize your preferences. These steps help increase your visibility, attract better matches, and connect you with real people who share your values.
Whether you’re looking for friendship, fun, companionship, or a long-term relationship, Facebook Dating gives you all the tools you need to meet the right person. Now that you know how to enable and customize your account, you’re ready to dive into a world of meaningful connections.
