Apple Developer Program onboarding

Created by Shopymate Support, Modified on Fri, 30 May at 3:47 PM by Shopymate Support

In today’s competitive mobile ecosystem, having your business’s app listed on the Apple App Store is essential to reach a wider audience, increase customer engagement, and enhance brand visibility. Whether you’re launching an eCommerce app, service portal, or internal business tool, Apple requires that businesses publishing apps under their brand name create an Apple Developer Account with an Organizational identity.

This comprehensive guide will walk you through the entire process, including eligibility criteria, required documents, and the step-by-step instructions to successfully register and verify your Apple Developer Account as an organization.


Eligibility & Prerequisites

To register for an Apple Developer account with an Organization identity, you must meet the following requirements:

✅ Business Documentation:

  • A legal entity (e.g., LLC, Pvt Ltd, Corporation). Apple does not accept DBAs, fictitious businesses, or sole proprietors under this option.

  • A D-U-N-S Number from Dun & Bradstreet (a unique business identifier).

  • A company website with a matching domain email address (e.g., info@yourcompany.com).

  • A legal authority to sign agreements on behalf of your business.

  • Government-issued business registration documents, tax ID, or EIN.


Step-by-Step Guide to Create an Apple Developer Organizational Account


Step 1: Create an Apple ID for Your Organization

If you don’t already have one, begin by creating an Apple ID specifically for your business (preferably using your company domain email).

To create an Apple ID:

  1. Go to appleid.apple.com

  2. Click Create Your Apple ID

  3. Use a company-branded email (e.g., dev@yourcompany.com)

  4. Save login credentials securely for future access

Enable two-factor authentication for enhanced security — this is mandatory for developer accounts.


Step 2: Obtain a D-U-N-S Number

A D-U-N-S (Data Universal Numbering System) Number is a unique identifier issued by Dun & Bradstreet and required for Apple to verify your business identity.

To get one:

Once your D-U-N-S Number is active and verified, Apple will recognize your business as a legitimate legal entity during enrollment.


Step 3: Prepare Your Business Information

Before enrolling, make sure you have the following details ready:

  • Legal Entity Name (exactly as registered)

  • D-U-N-S Number

  • Headquarters Address and Phone Number

  • Website URL

  • Company Email Address

  • Legal authority (Are you the owner, executive, or someone who can sign agreements?)


Step 4: Enroll in the Apple Developer Program

Once your Apple ID and D-U-N-S Number are ready, begin the enrollment process.

To enroll:

  1. Go to: https://developer.apple.com/programs/enroll/

  2. Log in with your organization Apple ID

  3. Choose Organization as the account type

  4. Enter all your business details

  5. Submit the application

Apple will review the information and may call your business to verify your authority to act on behalf of the organization. Make sure your business phone number and email are accurate.


Step 5: Wait for Approval and Confirmation Call

Apple typically takes 2–3 business days to process your enrollment.

During this time:

  • A representative may call to verify your role.

  • You may be asked to submit further documentation.

  • Ensure someone is available to take the verification call.

Once verified, you’ll receive an email inviting you to complete your enrollment by paying the annual membership fee.


Step 6: Pay the Developer Program Fee

To complete your registration:

  • Sign in to Apple Developer Program

  • Click “Join the Apple Developer Program”

  • Pay the $99 USD/year membership fee via Apple Pay or credit/debit card

Once payment is successful, you will receive a welcome email and gain access to the full Apple Developer Console.


Step 7: Set Up Your App Store Connect and Developer Account

Now that your account is active, configure your App Store Connect and Developer Console settings.

Things to do:

  • Set up your developer profile (company name, logo, etc.)

  • Invite your development team (admin, marketing, finance, etc.)

  • Set roles and permissions for each user

  • Link your bank account and tax information for app monetization

  • Add your company’s privacy policy URL

You’re now ready to start uploading apps, creating in-app purchases, and managing analytics for your iOS products.


Common Pitfalls to Avoid

  1. Using a Personal Apple ID: Always create a business-specific ID for your Apple Developer account.

  2. Incorrect D-U-N-S Details: The legal entity name must match exactly with what’s listed in the D&B database.

  3. Non-qualifying Business Structures: Sole proprietors and DBAs are often rejected.

  4. Lack of Website Presence: Apple may reject applications that don’t have a proper web presence or domain-based email.

  5. Skipping Verification Calls: If you miss the Apple verification call, the process is delayed. Be sure someone is available to answer.


Final Thoughts

Setting up an Apple Developer Account with an Organizational Identity may take a few days, but it’s a crucial step for any business looking to publish apps on the App Store professionally and at scale.

By following this guide, you’ll:

  • Establish your business on the Apple ecosystem

  • Ensure full compliance with Apple’s requirements

  • Be ready to launch, monetize, and manage apps effectively


Was this article helpful?

That’s Great!

Thank you for your feedback

Sorry! We couldn't be helpful

Thank you for your feedback

Let us know how can we improve this article!

Select at least one of the reasons
CAPTCHA verification is required.

Feedback sent

We appreciate your effort and will try to fix the article