So, you’re scrolling through Facebook and hear about this “Facebook Dating” thing. Sounds intriguing, right? The idea of finding love (or at least a fun date) without downloading another app sounds super convenient. But then, you start looking around your Facebook app for the dating icon, and… nothing. Zilch. Nada.
Where is it? Why can’t you see it? More importantly, how do you turn it on?
What Is Facebook Dating, Anyway?
Before we dive into the how-to, let’s clear the air.
Facebook Dating is a built-in feature inside the main Facebook app. It’s Facebook’s answer to Tinder, Bumble, and Hinge—except it’s neatly tucked away in the app you probably already use daily. It launched in select countries a few years back and is now available in many regions around the world.
Here's what makes Facebook Dating a little different:
You don't need to download anything new—it's right inside Facebook.
It doesn’t match you with your Facebook friends (unless you want it to).
It pulls info from your profile to build your dating profile.
You can connect Instagram posts and stories to showcase more of yourself.
It's completely free.
Pretty neat, huh?
Now, let’s move on to the real reason you’re here…
Why Can’t You See the Dating Icon on Facebook?
Alright, first things first: If the Dating icon isn’t showing up, it doesn’t mean there’s something wrong with your phone or account (though sometimes that might be the case). Here are a few possible reasons it’s MIA:
1. You're Under 18.
This one's non-negotiable. Facebook Dating is strictly for users who are 18 years or older. If your birthdate on your profile says you’re younger, or you just turned 18 recently, the icon won’t appear right away.
Fix: Make sure your date of birth is correct on your Facebook profile.
2. You’re in a Country Where It’s Not Available
Yes, Facebook Dating hasn’t launched in every country yet. As of 2025, it's available in over 50 countries, including the U.S., Canada, the UK, most of Europe, parts of Asia, and Latin America.
Fix: Check if your country is supported. If not, the feature won’t appear.
3. You Haven’t Updated the Facebook App
Sometimes, the icon’s absence is as simple as an outdated app. Facebook often rolls out new features via app updates.
Fix: Go to your app store, search for Facebook, and hit “Update.”
4. You’re Using Facebook on a Desktop
Facebook Dating is only available on the mobile app—not on the desktop version. So if you’re checking on your laptop or browser, you won’t find the icon there.
Fix: Open Facebook on your Android or iOS device.
5. Your Account is New
New accounts might not have access to all features immediately, especially sensitive ones like dating.
Fix: Give it some time and use the account regularly. Make sure your profile is fully set up.
How to Turn On the Dating Icon on Facebook (Step-by-Step)
Assuming you meet all the requirements above, let’s go through the step-by-step process to turn on Facebook Dating.
✅ Step 1: Open the Facebook App
Sounds obvious, but we have to start here. Open the Facebook app on your mobile device (iPhone or Android). Make sure it’s the latest version.
✅ Step 2: Tap on the Menu (Three Horizontal Lines)
In the lower right (iPhone) or top right (Android), you’ll see three horizontal lines (the hamburger menu). Tap it.
✅ Step 3: Scroll Until You See "Dating.”
You should see “Dating” listed as one of the options in the menu. It’s usually grouped with features like Marketplace, Groups, and Memories.
If it’s not there, don’t panic. Tap “See More” to expand the list of features. Sometimes Facebook hides extra features here.
✅ Step 4: Tap “Dating” to Get Started
Found it? Great! Tap on Dating, and Facebook will walk you through setting up your profile.
You’ll go through a quick setup:
Add a photo (you can use one from your Facebook or upload a new one).
Answer a few prompts (like “What does a perfect day look like to you?").
Set your preferences (like age range, location, and interests).
Optionally link your Instagram.
The whole process takes 5–10 minutes. Simple, right?
What If You Still Don’t See the Icon?
If you’ve done everything above and the Dating icon is still nowhere to be found, here are a few advanced fixes you can try.
🔄 Log Out and Log Back In
Sometimes a simple sign-out/sign-in resets the feature list and reveals hidden features like Dating.
📱 Uninstall and Reinstall the App
Uninstalling Facebook and then reinstalling it can help clear cache issues or glitches preventing features from showing.
🛠 Check Facebook Help Center
Use the Facebook Help Center to report a problem. You can describe your issue (e.g., “Dating icon not showing up”) and get more personalized help.
🔒 Check App Permissions
On some phones, restricted permissions can limit how Facebook runs. Make sure Facebook has full permissions to access location, storage, etc.
Setting Up Your Facebook Dating Profile Like a Pro
Now that you know how to turn on Facebook Dating, let’s talk about making your profile stand out. Because let’s be honest—you want to actually get matches, right?
Here are some tips to help you shine:
📸 Choose Clear, High-Quality Photos
Your main photo should be a clear headshot with good lighting. Skip the group shots (nobody wants to play “Where’s Waldo?”), and throw in a couple of full-body pics too.
📝 Fill Out the Prompts
Facebook gives you several prompt options, like
“What’s your idea of a perfect day?”
“The best way to win me over is…”
“A fact about me that surprises people…”
Answer these honestly and with personality. It’s a great way to spark conversations.
🌍 Set the Right Preferences
Make sure your location, distance range, age range, and interests are up-to-date. This helps you get better matches.
📷 Connect Instagram (Optional)
Want to show off your life a bit more? Link your Instagram account so potential matches can see more of what you’re about.
Features You’ll Love on Facebook Dating
Once you’ve activated the Dating icon and set everything up, here are some cool features you should try:
💘 Secret Crush
This feature lets you choose up to 9 Facebook or Instagram friends you have a crush on. If they also add you as a crush, you’ll both be notified—it’s mutual!
📍 Events and Groups Matching
Facebook can match you with people who like the same pages, attend the same events, or are in the same groups. Common interests = better conversations.
🎥 Video Chat
You can jump into a video call (via Messenger) with your match—great for virtual dates or verifying someone’s real before meeting up.
Is Facebook Dating Safe?
We get it—online dating can be sketchy. But Facebook has made some moves to keep things secure:
You can block and report anyone easily.
None of your dating activity shows up on your public Facebook profile.
You have the option to share your live location with a friend before going on a date (great for safety).
Still, trust your gut. If something feels off, it probably is.
Pros and Cons of Facebook Dating
Let’s quickly break down what makes Facebook Dating a win—and where it still has room to improve.
👍 Pros:
No need for a separate app.
Totally free
Pulls in your interests for better matching
“Secret Crush” adds some excitement.
Integrated safety features
👎 Cons:
Only available on mobile
Not in every country
Smaller dating pool than dedicated apps
Doesn’t show up for all users (clearly).
Final Thoughts: Your Next Swipe Could Be on Facebook
So, there you have it—a complete, no-fluff guide on how to turn on the Facebook Dating icon and get started on your search for love, fun, or maybe just some flirty chats.
The key takeaway? Make sure you’ve updated your app, meet the basic requirements (age, country, device), and look in the right spot. Once it’s on, you’re just a few taps away from diving into a new dating experience that’s surprisingly easy to use and 100% free.
Whether you’re tired of Tinder, bored of Bumble, or just curious, Facebook Dating might be the refreshing change you need.
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