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Let’s face it—dating in the digital world can feel like a full-time job. You’ve got apps for swiping, chatting, ghosting (unfortunately), and sometimes even matching with people who live halfway across the country. But what if the dating platform you needed was already in your pocket—hidden inside an app you use every single day?
That’s right, we’re talking about Facebook Dating. Not everyone knows it exists, and even fewer people realize how to unlock it. So, if you’re sitting there wondering, “Wait, Facebook has a dating app? And how do I turn it on?”—you’re not alone. And yes, it’s super easy once you know what to do.
In this article, we’re going to walk you through how to unlock the Facebook Dating app, step-by-step, no fluff. Whether you're a total tech newbie or just want to try something new in the dating world, we’ve got you covered.
What Is Facebook Dating, and Why Should You Care?
Before we jump into the how-to, let’s talk about why Facebook Dating is even worth checking out.
Facebook Dating is a feature built into the Facebook mobile app (not a separate app you need to download) that allows users to create a dating profile, match with people, and potentially find love—all based on mutual interests, shared events, and other info you already have on Facebook.
Here’s what makes Facebook Dating stand out:
No swiping—you can engage with someone by liking a part of their profile or replying to it
Secret Crush feature lets you match with someone you already know (if they like you back)
Integrated with Facebook Groups and Events—you can connect with people who have common interests
Completely free—no premium upgrade or annoying ads (for now, anyway)
No connection to your main profile feed—your friends won’t see your dating activity
If you’re already on Facebook, it makes sense to try dating there too, right?
Who Can Use Facebook Dating?
Let’s clear up some confusion. Not everyone can use Facebook Dating right away. Before you even try unlocking it, make sure you meet the basic requirements:
📱 You must be at least 18 years old
🌍 Facebook Dating is only available in select countries (like the U.S., UK, Canada, Philippines, India, and more)
📲 You must use the mobile app—it’s not available on desktop or in Facebook Lite
🔄 You need the latest version of the Facebook app
📍 Location services should be enabled
Once you’ve ticked all these boxes, you’re ready to move on to unlocking Facebook Dating.
How to Unlock the Facebook Dating App (Step-by-Step)
Ready to dive in? Let’s break this down in the simplest way possible.
🔓 Step 1: Open the Facebook App
Sounds basic, but it’s important—you must use the Facebook app on your phone. If you’re using a browser or the Lite version of the app, it won’t work.
Make sure you’re logged in to your personal account (not a page or business profile).
🔓 Step 2: Tap the Menu Icon
Look for the three horizontal lines (the hamburger icon). On iPhones, it’s usually at the bottom right; on Android phones, it’s at the top right.
Tap it to open up the main menu.
🔓 Step 3: Find and Tap “Dating”
Scroll through the menu until you find the Dating option. It’s usually near the middle or bottom, depending on your app layout.
If you don’t see it:
Make sure your app is updated
Try searching "Facebook Dating" in the search bar
Still missing? Facebook Dating may not be available in your country or age group
🔓 Step 4: Set Up Your Dating Profile
Now comes the fun part. Once you tap “Dating,” Facebook will guide you through creating your dating profile. This is separate from your regular Facebook profile.
Here’s what you’ll be asked to do:
Add profile pictures (you can import from Facebook or upload new ones)
Fill in info like your height, religion, job, education, kids, etc.
Answer a few icebreaker prompts (these make it easier for people to start conversations)
Choose your dating preferences (age range, gender, distance, etc.)
Pro tip: Be honest, be yourself, and don’t overthink it. A little personality goes a long way.
🔓 Step 5: Enable Location Access
This one’s critical. Facebook Dating needs access to your location so it can show you potential matches nearby.
Go to your phone settings → App permissions → Facebook → Enable location.
No location, no local matches. It’s that simple.
🔓 Step 6: Start Browsing Matches
Once everything’s set up, Facebook will start suggesting matches based on your interests, groups, events, and dating preferences.
Unlike apps like Tinder or Bumble, there’s no swipe right or left. Instead, you can:
Like someone’s profile
Comment on a specific part of their profile (great conversation starter)
Wait to see if they like you back
When both of you like each other—congrats! You’re matched and can start chatting.
What If Facebook Dating Isn’t Showing Up?
Don’t freak out—this happens more often than you’d think. Here are a few reasons why Facebook Dating might not appear and how to fix it.
🚫 You're under 18
Facebook won’t even show the Dating option to anyone under 18. Double-check your birthdate in your profile settings.
🚫 The app isn’t updated
Head to your app store and update the Facebook app. Older versions don’t support Dating.
🚫 It’s not available in your country
Unfortunately, Facebook Dating hasn’t rolled out everywhere yet. You can check Facebook’s official help page for the latest list of supported countries.
🚫 You’re using Facebook Lite or desktop
Facebook Dating is mobile-only. Switch to the standard Facebook app.
🚫 You're using a page or business account
Dating only works with personal profiles.
Extra Features to Explore Once You’re In
Now that you’ve unlocked Facebook Dating, let’s take it to the next level. Here are some features that make it stand out.
❤️ Secret Crush
This one’s juicy. You can select up to nine Facebook friends or Instagram followers you secretly like. If they add you to their secret crush list too—you’re both notified of the match.Totally private. No one knows unless it’s mutual.
🎯 Second Look
Regret skipping someone? Use the “Second Look” feature to revisit profiles you passed on.
🥳 Match Through Events and Groups
Facebook will show you people who are part of the same groups or have RSVP’d to the same events. Great way to meet people with shared interests.
Safety First: Smart Dating on Facebook
Facebook Dating is convenient, but it’s still online dating—which means you should stay cautious.
Here are some quick safety tips:
Never share personal info too soon (address, banking info, etc.)
Meet in public places for the first few dates
Tell a friend where you’re going
Block/report anyone who makes you feel uncomfortable
Facebook lets you block or report profiles directly from within the Dating section—use it if needed.
How to Disable or Delete Facebook Dating
Not feeling it? No big deal—you can easily delete or pause Facebook Dating.
To delete your Dating profile:
Go to the Dating section
Tap the settings gear ⚙️
Scroll down and choose “Delete Profile”
This deletes only your dating profile, not your main Facebook account.
To take a break:
You can also pause your profile. This hides you from the dating pool but keeps your info saved for later.
Conclusion; is Unlocking Facebook Dating Worth It?
Unlocking the Facebook Dating app is surprisingly easy—and honestly, kind of underrated. It’s simple, private, free, and already built into an app you probably check 10 times a day.
If you’re tired of swiping through endless profiles that go nowhere, Facebook Dating might just offer a refreshing change. With features like Secret Crush and Event-based matching, it's designed to connect people through meaningful shared interests—not just selfies and cheesy bios.
So go ahead—unlock it, set up your profile, and give it a spin. Worst-case scenario? You meet some interesting people. Best case? You find your next great love story.
Still unsure if Facebook Dating is live in your area? I can help you check availability if you let me know your country!
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