How to Turn On the Dating Icon on Facebook ✅

 

If you’ve ever scrolled through your Facebook app and thought, “Wait, where’s the Dating feature?”—you’re ”not alone. While Facebook Dating is a great way to meet new people and find potential partners, many users get confused when they can’t see the Dating icon on their app.

The good news? You can fix this easily. In this step-by-step guide, I’ll show you how to turn on the Dating icon on Facebook, why it may be missing, and how to start connecting with singles near you once it appears. No tech skills required—just your phone, your Facebook app, and a few taps.

What is Facebook Dating?

In case you're new to this feature, Facebook Dating is an optional, built-in feature inside the Facebook app that helps you meet people based on your interests, location, and preferences. It's separate from your main Facebook profile, so your friends won’t know you're using it unless they’re using it too—and even then, only if you both choose each other as a “Secret Crush.”

It works similarly to apps like Tinder or Bumble, but with the advantage of tapping into Facebook’s massive network of users.

But before you can swipe or chat, you’ve got to turn on the Facebook Dating feature.

Why Can’t I See the Facebook Dating Icon?

Let’s quickly look at a few common reasons why the Dating icon might not show up on your Facebook app.

You’re Under 18

Facebook Dating is only available to users 18 years or older. If your account shows you’re younger than that, you won’t be able to access it.

You’re in an Unsupported Country.

Facebook Dating is not yet available in every country. If you're located in a region where it hasn’t rolled out, the icon simply won’t appear.

Pro Tip: If you’re using a VPN, it might also affect this.

You’re Using an Outdated App Version

If you haven’t updated your Facebook app recently, it might not have the Dating feature. You need to be on the latest version of the app.

You’ve Violated Facebook Policies

Accounts that have broken Facebook’s community guidelines may be restricted from using certain features, including Dating.

Your Facebook Account Is New

New accounts are sometimes restricted from using Facebook Dating to prevent spam or fake profiles.

How to Turn On the Dating Icon on Facebook (Step-by-Step)

Now that you know why it might be missing, let’s go through how to activate Facebook Dating and get the icon back on your app.

Step 1: Open the Facebook App

Make sure you’re using the official Facebook app, not Facebook Lite or a third-party browser. Facebook Dating does not work on the desktop version or Lite app.

Step 2: Update the App

Go to your App Store (iOS) or Google Play Store (Android) and update Facebook to the latest version. This often fixes bugs and adds missing features.

Step 3: Tap the Menu Icon (☰)

On iPhone, it’s at the bottom right. On Android, it’s usually at the top right. This opens up a list of Facebook’s features.

Step 4: Look for “Dating” in the Menu

Scroll down and look for a heart icon labeled “Dating.” If it’s there, congrats—you can tap it to set up your profile.

Can't find it? Don’t panic. Try the next step.

Step 5: Use the Search Bar

Go back to the top of the app and type “Dating” in the search bar. If Facebook Dating is available to you, it will show up as a result with the heart logo.

Step 6: Set Up Your Dating Profile

Once you tap into Facebook Dating, the app will ask you to:

• Upload photos

• Write a short bio

• Select your interests

• Choose your dating preferences (age range, gender, location).

This profile is separate from your main Facebook profile.

Bonus: Your friends won’t see your Dating activity unless they’re on Dating too.

What to Do If the Dating Icon Still Doesn’t Show Up

Still no luck? Here are a few more things to try:

Log Out and Log Back In

Sometimes a simple reset does the trick. Log out of your Facebook app, close it, and log back in.

Check Your Region

If you're traveling or using a VPN, Facebook may not allow access. Make sure you're in a supported region and turn off your VPN if needed.

Clear App Cache (Android)

On Android:

• Go to Settings > Apps > Facebook > Storage

• Tap Clear Cache

• Reopen the app

Check for Violations

If you think your account might be restricted, go to Help & Support > Support Inbox and look for any alerts.

Features You Can Use Once the Dating Icon Is Turned On

Once you’ve successfully turned on Facebook Dating, here’s what you get access to:

Secret Crush

Pick up to 9 people from your Facebook or Instagram followers that you have a crush on. If they add you too—it’s a match!

Suggested Matches

Facebook suggests potential matches based on:

• Your interests

• Your location

• Your activity and groups

Messenger Integration

You can chat with matches directly using Facebook Dating chat, which is separate from Messenger.

Video Chat

Want to have a face-to-face conversation before meeting up? Facebook Dating lets you video call your matches.

Events and Groups

See matches who are part of the same events or groups you're in. This helps break the ice instantly.

How to Make the Most of Facebook Dating

Now that your Dating icon is active, here are a few tips to get better matches and have a smoother experience:

Choose Good Photos

• Use clear, recent photos.

• Avoid group pics as your main profile photo

• Show your smile and personality.

Write a Catchy Bio

Keep it short and fun. Something like:

“Coffee lover | Weekend hiker | Dog dad | Let’s grab tacos ”

Set Accurate Preferences

Be honest about your age, gender, and match preferences. This helps Facebook suggest better matches.

Be Respectful in Messages

First impressions matter. Ask questions based on their profile instead of just saying “Hey.”

Facebook Dating: Pros and Cons

To give you a well-rounded view, here’s what you can expect once you turn the Dating feature on:

Pros:

• Free to use

• Integrated with your Facebook interests

• Separate from your public Facebook profile

• Video chat and secret crush features

Cons:

• Only available on mobile

• May not be available in all countries

• Limited to Facebook users only

Countries Where Facebook Dating Is Available

As of 2025, Facebook Dating is available in over 40 countries, including

• United States, United Kingdom, Nigeria, Canada, Brazil, Mexico, Philippines, Thailand, South Africa, Argentina, and more,

Facebook is constantly expanding, so if you don’t have access yet, stay updated through the app or support section.

What If You Accidentally Deleted the Dating Icon?

It’s rare, but sometimes users accidentally remove shortcuts. Here's how to restore the Dating icon:

On Android:

• Long-press the Facebook app

• Tap App Info > Storage > Clear Cache

• Reopen the app and check the menu

On iPhone:

• Remove and reinstall the Facebook app.

• Log in again

• The Dating icon should reappear in the menu.

Conclusion

Facebook Dating is a simple yet powerful way to meet new people—and activating it is easier than you think. If you’ve been wondering how to turn on the Dating icon on Facebook, now you have all the tools and knowledge to make it happen.

Whether you're looking for love, friendship, or just want to see who’s out there, Facebook Dating gives you a private, convenient way to connect with like-minded singles in your area. Just make sure your app is updated, your account meets the requirements, and your profile reflects the real you.

So go ahead, turn on that heart icon, and start mingling. You never know—you might just find your next big connection a few swipes away.