How to Turn On the Dating Icon: A Step-by-Step Guide

 

So, you’ve heard about Facebook Dating and you’re ready to give it a try—but you can’t seem to find the Dating icon anywhere on your Facebook app. Frustrating, right?

Don't worry. You're definitely not alone.

Many users ask the same question: “Where the heck is the Dating feature?” Or more specifically: “How do I turn on the Dating icon on Facebook?”

In this complete guide, I’ll walk you through why the Dating icon might be missing, how to turn it on, and what to do if it still doesn’t show up after trying everything. Ready? Let’s get into it.

💡 What Is the Facebook Dating Icon?

Before we talk about fixing the issue, let’s understand what we’re even looking for.

The Facebook Dating icon is a small heart-shaped symbol found inside the Facebook mobile app (not Messenger or browser versions). Once it appears, tapping on it takes you to your Facebook Dating profile—where you can match with others, chat, and even go on virtual dates.

But here’s the kicker: the icon doesn’t show up automatically for everyone. You have to meet certain requirements, and sometimes Facebook hides it due to account or app issues.

✅ Basic Requirements to See the Dating Icon

To make sure the Dating feature shows up, your account and app must meet the following conditions:

• 🔞 You must be 18 years or older

• 🌍 Facebook Dating must be available in your country

• 📱 You have to use the official Facebook mobile app (not Lite or web browser)

• 🎯 Your account must be active and in good standing

• 🌐 You need a stable internet connection

• 🔄 The app must be updated to the latest version

If even one of those is missing, the icon might not show up. Now let’s talk about how to fix that.

🔎 Step-by-Step: How to Turn On the Dating Icon on Facebook

Step 1: Update the Facebook App

Go to the App Store (iOS) or Google Play Store (Android) and make sure your Facebook app is the latest version. If there’s an update button, hit it.

Outdated versions often cause display bugs—like missing features.

Step 2: Open the Facebook App

Launch the main Facebook app and log in to your account. Again, this must be the regular Facebook app—not Facebook Lite or your mobile browser.

Step 3: Access the Menu (☰)

• On Android, tap the three-line menu at the top right.

• On iPhone, it’s usually at the bottom right.

Scroll down or use the search bar at the top of the menu.

Step 4: Tap on “Dating” or Search for It

If your account is eligible, you’ll see a heart icon labeled “Dating.” Tap on it to open the setup.

Can’t find it? Try this:

• Tap the search bar at the top of the menu.

• Type in “Dating” and hit enter.

If it appears, tap it and get started.

Step 5: Set Up Your Dating Profile

Once you’ve accessed the Dating section, Facebook will guide you through the setup:

• Upload a few profile pictures

• Write a short bio

• Choose your interests

• Set your match preferences (gender, distance, age range, etc.)

Once you complete the setup, your profile goes live—and the Dating icon should now appear regularly in your app menu.

🚫 Still Don’t See the Dating Icon? Here's Why (And How to Fix It)

If you followed the steps above and the icon is still nowhere to be found, here are some possible reasons—and how to deal with each:

1. Facebook Dating Isn’t Available in Your Country

Yep, this is a big one. As of 2025, Facebook Dating is not available worldwide. It’s only active in select countries.

How to check:

• Google “Facebook Dating available countries 2025”

• Visit Facebook’s official help center for an updated list

If it's not supported where you live, the icon won’t appear—no matter what you do.

Solution: Try using a VPN to simulate being in a supported country (like the U.S., Canada, or the U.K.), but keep in mind this can violate Facebook’s policies.

2. You’re Using Facebook Lite or Mobile Browser

Facebook Dating only works on the full version of the Facebook mobile app.

Solution:

• Uninstall Facebook Lite if you’re using it

• Install the main Facebook app from your device’s app store

• Log in and check again.

3. Your Facebook Account Has Restrictions

If your account has ever been flagged, suspended, or reported, you might not be able to access Dating.

Solution:

• Visit your Account Settings

• Check for any violations or warnings

• Clear them if possible, or contact Facebook support for help.

4. You’re Under 18

Facebook Dating is strictly for users 18 and older. Even if you change your birthdate today, Facebook may still block access.

Solution: If you accidentally set the wrong birthday during signup, you'll need to verify your age through ID confirmation. Visit facebook.com/id to start the process.

5. Bug or Cache Issue

Sometimes the app just bugs out.

Solution:

• Go to your phone settings > Apps > Facebook > Clear Cache

• Restart the app

• Still not working? Uninstall and reinstall the app

💬 Can You Turn the Dating Icon On or Off?

Once you’ve activated Facebook Dating, the icon usually stays in your app menu. But you can “turn it off” by deleting or pausing your Dating profile.

🛑 To Delete Your Dating Profile:

1. Open Facebook app

2. Tap Menu > Dating

3. Tap the Settings gear ⚙️

4. Scroll down and choose Delete Profile

☕ To Pause Your Dating Profile:

1. Go to Menu > Dating

2. Tap Settings > General

3. Toggle on Pause Matching

This keeps your data and conversations, but hides your profile temporarily. The Dating icon may disappear or move lower in your menu.

🎯 Pro Tips for Using Facebook Dating Once It’s Active

So, you finally got the Dating icon working. Great! Now what?

Here’s how to get the most out of the feature:

1. Use “Secret Crush”

You can pick up to 9 friends or Instagram followers to add to your secret crush list. If they do the same, it’s a match!

2. Enable “Events & Groups” Matching

Meet people who like the same stuff as you by syncing your events or groups. Super helpful if you're into niche hobbies or communities.

3. Use Video Chat Safely

Got a good match? You can voice or video call them within Facebook Dating—without giving away your phone number

🌍 Where Is Facebook Dating Available in 2025?

Here are some countries where Facebook Dating is active:

• United States

• Canada

• United Kingdom

• Mexico

• Brazil

• Philippines

• India

• South Africa

• Nigeria

• Argentina

• Thailand

• Vietnam

Facebook is expanding slowly, so keep an eye on updates if your country isn’t listed.

🤔 FAQ: Quick Answers About the Dating Icon

Q: Is Facebook Dating a separate app?

A: Nope! It’s built into the main Facebook app.

Q: Will my friends see my dating profile?

A: No. Your Dating activity is private unless you use “Secret Crush” and match with someone you already know

Q: Can I hide the Dating icon if I no longer want it?

A: Yes. Just delete your Dating profile and the icon will disappear from your menu.

Q: Is Facebook Dating really free?

A: Yep. No hidden fees, subscriptions, or paid messages.

🏁 Conclusion: The Dating Icon Is Just the Beginning

Turning on the Dating icon is just step one. What really matters is how you use the platform to meet real people and build genuine connections.

Once it’s up and running, Facebook Dating becomes a surprisingly rich experience. It’s built on real identities, mutual interests, and a private space to meet new people—without having to start from scratch on a whole new app.

So go ahead—update your app, unlock that icon, and take a step toward meeting someone new in 2025.