Can You Ask Users to Follow You on Instagram for a Giveaway?

Denny Vuong Denny Vuong · 2025-05-21
Can You Ask Users to Follow You on Instagram for a Giveaway?

Yes — but you need to do it right.

Instagram giveaways are a powerful way to boost engagement and grow your following. And yes, asking users to follow your account as an entry action is allowed — as long as you follow Instagram’s official promotion guidelines.

Let’s break down the key rules so your giveaway stays compliant and effective.

✅ Are Giveaways Allowed on Instagram?

Absolutely. Instagram allows promotions like giveaways and contests — as long as you’re transparent, legally compliant, and not misleading users.

But here's the catch: Instagram doesn't manage or endorse your giveaway. You're responsible for:

  • Setting your own official rules
  • Defining eligibility (age, country, etc.)
  • Complying with local laws (e.g. "no purchase necessary" in some regions)
  • 📌 Instagram’s official policy:

    📋 What Your Giveaway Rules MUST Include

    To stay compliant, your Instagram giveaway needs to have these elements:

  • A clear release of Instagram
  • A disclaimer
  • Entry method
  • Prize details
  • Eligibility requirements
  • Timeline
  • How winners are chosen

  • 🤔 Common Questions About Instagram Giveaway Rules

    Can I ask users to follow me for an entry?

    ✅ Yes. This is allowed and commonly used.

    Can I ask users to tag friends in comments?

    ✅ Yes — as long as they don’t tag themselves in photos where they don’t appear.

    Can I require users to share the post to their story?

    ✅ Yes. You can ask them to reshare to their story — but remember: story reshares can’t be tracked automatically unless the account tags you.


    🛠️ How to Run a Compliant Instagram Giveaway

    Here’s a simple checklist to follow:

  • 📦 Announce your prize(s)
  • 🕓 Set start and end dates (with time zone)
  • 🔍 Explain how the winner is chosen
  • Include eligibility restrictions
  • 📜 Add required legal disclaimers
  • 🚫 Don’t encourage false tagging or spammy behavior

  • ⚠️ Final Tip: Respect Local Laws

    Instagram’s rules are just one part. Make sure you also follow the laws in your country, especially around:

  • Age restrictions
  • “No purchase necessary” requirements
  • Data privacy if collecting user info

  • 🎉 Wrap-up

    Instagram giveaways can be a growth rocket — if you play by the rules. Asking users to follow you for an entry? Totally fine. Just make sure your post includes a disclaimer and all the essential terms.

    If you're using a giveaway platform like Promo Amp, you can automatically include all the legal bits, track entries, and stay compliant.

    Need a ready-made giveaway template that includes all this? I’ve got you. Let me know.

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