So you finally decided to build that app. You’ve got the code, the icons are looking sharp, and you’re ready to show the world. But then you hit the wall: the Apple Developer Program. Honestly, it’s one of those things that sounds simple until you’re three screens deep into a verification loop wondering why on earth they need a photo of your utility bill.
Getting an apple developer account create process finished isn't just about handing over $99. It’s basically a digital background check. Apple is obsessive about "trust and safety," which is code for "we don't want junk or scams in the App Store." If you mess up a single detail—like using a nickname instead of your legal name—you’re looking at weeks of back-and-forth with support.
The Two Paths: Individual vs. Organization
Before you click anything, you have to choose a side. This isn't just a label; it changes how your app looks to the world and what paperwork you'll need.
The Individual Account is for the lone wolves. If you’re a solo dev or a tiny shop where you are the business, this is your route. Your personal name—the one on your passport—will show up as the "Seller" in the App Store. No, you can't use "CoolDev Studios" here unless you actually have a registered company for that name.
The Organization Account is for the big players (or anyone with an LLC). The main perk? Your company name shows up as the seller. Plus, you can add team members. But—and this is a big "but"—you need a D-U-N-S Number. It’s a nine-digit ID for businesses. If you don't have one, you have to go through Dun & Bradstreet to get it, which can take a few days.
Why the D-U-N-S Number is such a pain
Apple uses this to make sure your company actually exists. If your business address on your Apple ID doesn't perfectly match the D&B database, the system will kick it back. It’s frustratingly pedantic. Kinda like a DMV clerk who won't take your paperwork because a comma is missing.
What You Actually Need to Start
Don't just jump in. You'll get stuck. Gather these things first:
💡 You might also like: Samsung Galaxy S23 Case with Screen Protector: Why Most 2-in-1 Kits Actually Fail
- An Apple ID with Two-Factor Authentication (2FA): This is mandatory. If you haven't turned on 2FA on your iPhone or Mac yet, do it now.
- The Apple Developer App: Honestly, do the enrollment on your iPhone or iPad via the app. It's much smoother than the web version because it uses FaceID and the camera to verify your ID instantly.
- A Valid Credit Card: Apple is picky. They usually want a card that can handle recurring international transactions, and for individual accounts, the name on the card should ideally match the account.
- Legal Documents: Have your driver's license or passport handy. The app will ask you to scan it.
Walking Through the Enrollment
If you're using the Apple Developer app, you'll head to the "Account" tab and hit "Enroll Now."
The first thing they’ll ask is for your legal info. Don't use a "dev" email that isn't tied to your real identity. Apple compares this info against your 2FA device records. If you're enrolling as an organization, they’ll ask for your website. Note: a "Coming Soon" page won't cut it. It needs to be a real, functional site that proves you’re a legitimate entity.
Payment is the last hurdle. It’s $99 per year (or around £79 / €99 depending on where you live). It's an auto-renewing subscription. If you let it lapse, your apps vanish from the store within 24 hours. Gone. Just like that.
The 2026 Reality: New Hurdles
As of early 2026, Apple has tightened the screws on "Trader Status," especially if you're distributing in the EU. Thanks to the Digital Services Act, you now have to declare if you're a professional trader. This involves providing a phone number and address that might actually be displayed to the public on your app's page.
Also, if you're in Japan, the rules just changed again regarding alternative marketplaces. The "standard" enrollment still applies, but you'll see a lot more legal fine print regarding the "Mobile Software Competition Act" during the signup process.
Common Reasons for Rejection
- The "Vague Website" Trap: Your site must have your contact info and look "business-like."
- Address Mismatch: Your Apple ID address, your credit card billing address, and your business registration address should be identical. Even "Street" vs "St." can sometimes trigger a manual review.
- Under 18: You must be the legal age of majority. No exceptions. If you're 17, you have to wait or have a parent/guardian open the account in their name.
Moving Past the "Pending" Status
Once you pay, you’ll probably see a "Pending" message. This is normal. It usually takes 24 to 48 hours for Apple to verify the payment and the identity docs. Sometimes you’ll get a call from an unknown number in California—pick it up. That's likely an Apple agent verifying your organization's details.
Once you're in, you get access to App Store Connect. This is the "cockpit" where you actually upload your build, set your pricing, and write your descriptions.
Actionable Next Steps:
- Verify your 2FA status: Go to Settings > [Your Name] > Sign-In & Security on your iPhone to ensure Two-Factor Authentication is active.
- Check your D-U-N-S: If you're a business, use the D-U-N-S Lookup tool to ensure your data is current before starting.
- Update your Apple ID: Make sure your Apple ID uses your legal name as it appears on your government ID to avoid verification delays.
- Prepare your website: Ensure your organization's website is public and contains clear contact information that matches your enrollment data.
- Download the Developer App: Install the Apple Developer app from the App Store to use the streamlined mobile enrollment process.