Online dating app has become a global movement. Millions of singles worldwide are turning to digital platforms to meet new people, form relationships, and even find marriage partners. Apps like Tinder, Bumble, and Hinge have dominated the scene for years, but recently, another big player entered the game: Facebook Dating.
Launched in 2019, the Facebook Dating app is designed to help users find meaningful relationships. Unlike many other dating platforms, Facebook Dating is completely free and integrated directly into the main Facebook app, which billions of people already use daily.
But many singles still ask: “Who can use Facebook Dating?” and “Why should I use it when there are so many other apps?”
This article breaks down exactly who is eligible to use Facebook Dating, what makes it different from other platforms, why singles are switching, and the key reasons why you should try it if you’re looking for love in 2025.
Who Can Use Facebook Dating?
Facebook Dating isn’t for everyone. It comes with specific eligibility requirements to ensure safety, maturity, and compatibility. Let’s go through them in detail.
1. You Must Be 18 or Older
Facebook Dating is strictly for adults. Anyone under 18 cannot use the feature, even if they already have a Facebook account. This ensures that the platform is only available to those who are legally eligible to participate in dating activities.
2. You Must Have a Facebook Account
Unlike Tinder or Bumble, which are separate apps, Facebook Dating is built inside the main Facebook app. You need a valid Facebook account to access it.
- You don’t need a long history of Facebook activity, but your account must be real and not fake.
- You must log in through the Facebook mobile app (iOS or Android).
3. You Need the Mobile App
Facebook Dating is not available on the desktop version of Facebook. You need to use the mobile app to create and use your Dating profile.
4. Location Availability
Facebook Dating is available in many countries, including the U.S., Canada, the U.K., most of Europe, Nigeria, Brazil, and more. However, it may not be accessible in every country yet.
- If you can’t see the “Dating” option in your app menu, it may not be launched in your region.
5. Willingness to Create a Separate Dating Profile
Your Dating profile is separate from your main Facebook profile. To use the service, you must:
- Add photos specifically for Dating.
- Answer questions and set preferences.
- Customize your bio.
6. Openness to Connecting With New People
Facebook Dating is designed for singles who are genuinely interested in building relationships. It is not for:
- Married users who aren’t transparent.
- Fake accounts or scammers.
- People looking for quick hookups only.
Why You Should Use Facebook Dating
Now that you know who can use the app, the next big question is: Why should you use Facebook Dating instead of other apps?
Here are the top reasons singles around the world are choosing it:
1. It’s Free – No Hidden Costs
Many dating apps start out free but then lock the most useful features behind a paywall.
- Want to see who liked you on Tinder? You need a subscription.
- Want unlimited swipes on Bumble? You have to pay.
Facebook Dating, however, is completely free. You get full access to all features without any premium fees.
2. Authentic Profiles
Because Facebook Dating is connected to real Facebook accounts, there are fewer fake profiles compared to other apps.
- While it’s not 100% scam-proof, the system weeds out bots better than swipe-based apps.
- You’ll often see real details like shared groups, mutual friends, and hobbies.
This increases trust and reduces wasted time with fake matches.
3. Separate From Your Main Facebook Profile
Privacy is a big concern for singles. Many don’t want their friends or family to know they are using a dating app.
- Your Facebook Dating profile is separate and private.
- It doesn’t show up on your main Facebook timeline.
- Your friends won’t be notified when you create or use your Dating profile.
4. Secret Crush Feature
This is one of the most talked-about features of Facebook Dating. Here’s how it works:
- You can add up to 9 people from your Facebook or Instagram who you’re secretly interested in.
- If they also add you, both of you are notified of the match.
- If not, your crush will never know.
This feature is perfect for singles who already have someone in mind but are too shy to approach directly.
5. Match Through Events and Groups
Unlike Tinder or Bumble, where matches are based mostly on location and looks, Facebook Dating allows you to:
- Match with people who attend the same Facebook Events (like concerts, seminars, or local meetups).
- Match with singles in the same Groups (like hiking groups, book clubs, or cooking classes).
This means you already have something in common with your potential match, which makes conversations flow more naturally.
6. Safer Dating Experience
Facebook has built-in safety tools to make dating less risky.
- Report and Block: Easily report inappropriate behavior or block users.
- Share Your Plans: You can share your live location with friends when going on a date for safety.
- Privacy Controls: You decide what information to share and who sees your profile.
7. Better Conversations, Less Swiping
On many dating apps, conversations die out quickly. People swipe endlessly without serious engagement.
Facebook Dating changes this by:
- Allowing users to comment directly on a photo or answer in a profile.
- Encouraging deeper discussions rather than just surface-level likes.
8. Integration With Instagram
If you’re active on Instagram, you can share your Instagram Stories and posts directly to your Facebook Dating profile.
This makes your profile feel more real and dynamic, giving matches a better sense of your lifestyle.
How to Get Started With Facebook Dating
If you’re eligible and ready to dive in, here’s how to start:
- Open Facebook App
- Go to the main menu and tap “Dating.”
- Create a Profile
- Add photos, fill in your bio, and answer prompts.
- Set Preferences
- Choose location range, age range, gender, and relationship goals.
- Explore Matches
- Check out suggested profiles based on shared interests.
- Use the “Events” and “Groups” features to find like-minded singles.
- Engage Authentically
- Instead of swiping, comment on prompts or photos.
- Start meaningful conversations.
Who Benefits the Most From Facebook Dating?
While anyone over 18 with a Facebook account can use the app, some groups of singles may benefit the most:
- Young Professionals: Networking through Groups and Events makes dating feel less forced.
- Singles Over 40: A more mature, trust-based platform compared to casual swipe apps.
- Students: Can meet like-minded peers through events, classes, or campus groups.
- Divorced or Widowed Singles: Offers a safe and respectful way to start dating again.
- Singles in Smaller Communities: With Facebook’s large user base, you may find more matches than on niche dating apps.
Common Misconceptions About Facebook Dating
1. “My friends will know I’m using it.”
False. Your Dating profile is private and separate.
2. “It’s only for casual hookups.”
Not true. Facebook Dating is designed for meaningful relationships.
3. “It’s the same as Tinder.”
Wrong. Facebook Dating uses shared groups, events, and real profiles to connect users—unlike swipe-only apps.
4. “It’s unsafe.”
While no app is 100% safe, Facebook has strong safety features built-in, and real identities make it more secure.
Facebook Dating vs Other Apps
| Feature | Facebook Dating | Tinder | Bumble | Hinge |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cost | Free | Paid for premium features | Paid for premium features | Paid for premium features |
| Profile Authenticity | High (linked to FB accounts) | Medium | Medium | High |
| Matching Method | Groups, Events, Interests | Swipes | Swipes + Women-First | Prompts + Compatibility |
| Privacy | Separate Profile | Limited | Limited | Separate App |
| Best For | Meaningful Relationships | Casual Dating | Empowering Women | Long-Term Dating |
Tips to Maximize Success on Facebook Dating
- Use High-Quality Photos
- Include at least 3–5 photos.
- Mix headshots, full-body shots, and activity photos.
- Be Honest in Your Bio
- Share what you’re looking for—relationships, friendships, or marriage.
- Engage With Prompts
- Prompts like “The last song I couldn’t stop listening to…” show your personality.
- Use Secret Crush Carefully
- Don’t add random friends—choose thoughtfully.
- Be Patient and Consistent
- Matches may not come instantly. Keep updating your profile and stay active.
- Stay Safe
- Always meet in public first.
- Share your date details with a trusted friend.
Final Thoughts
So, who can use Facebook Dating?
- Anyone over 18 with a valid Facebook account in a country where the feature is available.
And why should you use it?
- It’s free, authentic, safe, and built for singles who want meaningful connections rather than endless swiping.
In 2025, Facebook Dating stands out as one of the most promising platforms for singles worldwide. With unique features like Secret Crush, Events, and Groups, it provides real opportunities to connect with people who share your interests, values, and lifestyle.
If you’re single and serious about finding love, Facebook Dating could be the perfect place to start.
