So, you’ve heard about Facebook Dating, and you’re thinking, “Why not give it a shot?” You’re already on Facebook half the time anyway; might as well see if love is just a few taps away, right?
But then reality hits:
Where is Facebook Dating? How do I activate it? Why can’t I find the icon everyone’s talking about?
If you’re confused, you’re not alone. Facebook Dating is still a bit of a hidden gem, and many users have no idea how to get started.
In this complete guide, we’ll break it all down in plain English. You’ll learn:
- What Facebook Dating is
- Who can use it?
- How to activate Facebook Dating step-by-step
- What to do if the icon is missing
- Extra features you shouldn’t miss
- FAQs and final thoughts
Let’s get into it.
What is Facebook Dating?
In a nutshell, Facebook Dating is a built-in feature inside the Facebook mobile app that helps users find meaningful relationships.
Unlike Tinder or Bumble, you don’t need a separate app. It lives right inside Facebook, tucked away in the menu section—and allows you to:
- Create a private dating profile
- Match with people based on your interests, groups, and events.
- Chat with matches directly.
- Keep your activity hidden from your Facebook friends (unless you both choose each other as a Secret Crush).
Oh, and it’s totally free, with no paid upgrades, no premium-only swipes, and no pressure.
Who Can Use Facebook Dating?
Before you spend 20 minutes looking for the feature, let’s make sure you’re eligible. You can only activate Facebook Dating if:
- You’re 18 or older.
- You’re using the official Facebook mobile app (not desktop).
- You’re located in a supported country.
- You’ve updated your app to the latest version.
If you don’t meet any of the above conditions, you won’t be able to access Facebook Dating, period.
How Do I Activate Facebook Dating? (Step-by-Step)
Ready to dive in? Follow these simple steps to activate Facebook Dating on your mobile device.
Step 1: Open the Facebook App
This one’s obvious, but make sure you’re using the mobile version of Facebook. Dating is not available on desktop or mobile browsers.
If you don’t have the app, download it from the App Store (iOS) or Google Play Store (Android).
Step 2: Tap the Menu (☰) Icon
Once you’re inside the app, go to the menu icon. On iPhones, it’s at the bottom-right corner. On Android, you’ll find it in the top right.
This opens a long list of Facebook features.
Step 3: Look for “Dating” in the Menu
Scroll down until you see “Dating” with a small heart icon next to it. If it’s not there right away, don’t panic.
Pro Tip: Use the search bar at the top of the menu. Just type in “Dating,” and it should show up if it’s available to you.
Step 4: Tap “Dating” to Start Setup
Once you tap into Facebook Dating, you’ll be guided through the profile setup process. This takes just a few minutes and includes:
- Choosing a profile photo (different from your main FB photo)
- Adding personal info (height, education, religion, etc.)
- Answering icebreaker questions
- Setting your location and preferences
- Writing a short bio
Step 5: Review Your Profile and Hit “Confirm”
Once your profile is set up, double-check everything. Your dating profile is separate from your main Facebook account, so you can share only what you want.
When you’re happy with it, hit “Confirm” or “Submit,” and boom—you’re live on Facebook Dating.
You can now browse matches, like profiles, and start chatting with anyone who matches back.
Can’t Find the Facebook Dating Icon?
No dating option in your menu? Here’s what might be going on and how to fix it.
1. You’re Using the Wrong Platform
Facebook Dating only works on the mobile app. If you’re on a computer or using Facebook through a browser, the icon won’t show up.
2. Your App Needs Updating
Old versions of the Facebook app might not support Dating. Go to your app store and update to the latest version.
3. Facebook Dating Isn’t Available in Your Country
Yep, this is a common issue. Facebook Dating is currently available in 30+ countries, including the U.S., Canada, the UK, Brazil, and parts of Europe and Asia. If you’re in an unsupported region, the icon just won’t appear.
4. You’re Under 18
Facebook will block the feature automatically if your profile age is under 18.
5. Your Account Has Restrictions
If your account has been flagged or restricted for any reason (spam, policy violations, etc.), certain features like Dating may be disabled.
6. Location Services Are Off
Facebook Dating needs your location to find matches nearby. Make sure location permissions are enabled in your phone settings.
Facebook Dating Features You’ll Love
Once your profile is live, here are a few extra features that make Facebook Dating stand out:
Secret Crush
Have a little crush on a Facebook or Instagram friend? Add them to your Secret Crush list (up to 9 people). If they add you back, it’s a match! If not? No one ever knows. No awkwardness.
Match Anywhere
Want to meet people in another city or country? Facebook Dating lets you set your dating location so you can explore matches beyond your local area. Great for travelers or remote workers.
Second Look
Ever swiped left too fast and regretted it? The Second Look feature lets you revisit people you passed on. A rare but very handy tool in dating apps!
Group & Event Matching
You can match with people who are part of the same groups or attending similar events as you. It’s a great way to find people with shared interests or hobbies.
Is Facebook Dating Safe?
Here’s the good news—Facebook built Dating with privacy in mind:
- Your dating profile is separate from your main profile.
- Facebook friends can’t see your dating activity (unless you match via Secret Crush).
- Messages are handled within Dating—they don’t show up in Messenger.
- You can block and report anyone instantly.
Still, as with any online platform, use common sense:
- Don’t share personal details too early.
- Meet in public for first dates.
- Trust your gut if something feels off.
How to Turn Off or Delete Facebook Dating
Done with dating for a while? Here’s how to turn it off:
- Go to Facebook Dating.
- Tap the Settings gear.
- Scroll to “General.”
- Tap “Delete Profile.”
- Confirm your decision.
This only deletes your dating profile; your main Facebook account remains untouched.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Facebook Dating free to use?
Yes, it’s completely free. There are no paid upgrades or hidden charges.
Q: Can my Facebook friends see my dating profile?
Nope. Your dating activity is private and not visible to your friends—unless you both add each other as a secret crush.
Q: Can I use Facebook Dating on desktop?
No. It’s only available on the mobile app.
Q: Can I use Facebook Dating without a profile picture?
No. A profile photo is required to activate your dating profile.
Q: Can I use Instagram with Facebook Dating?
Yes! You can link your Instagram to your dating profile, share posts, and include followers in your Secret Crush list.
Conclusion: Should You Try Facebook Dating?
If you’re already a Facebook user and want to dip your toes into online dating without downloading another app, Facebook Dating is honestly a no-brainer.
It’s simple, private, and has some really cool features (Secret Crush is a game-changer). Plus, it’s completely free—which is rare in the dating app world.
So now that you know how to activate Facebook Dating, why not give it a try? You might just meet someone who gets your weird memes and your love for tacos.