DUNS Number and Apple Developer: Everything to Know to Publish on the App Store
You've built an iOS app and want to publish it on the App Store as an organization? Apple requires a DUNS number. Many developers discover this requirement at the last minute and end up stuck for weeks. This guide explains everything you need to anticipate and avoid that roadblock.
Why Does Apple Require a DUNS Number?
When you enroll in the Apple Developer Program as an organization (as opposed to an individual account), Apple needs to verify that your company legally exists. Rather than building its own global verification system, Apple relies on the Dun & Bradstreet database — the world's reference for business identification.
This requirement applies in several situations:
- Creating an Apple Developer Program Organization account
- Publishing apps under a company name (rather than an individual name)
- Accessing certain sensitive APIs (such as HealthKit, HomeKit, etc.)
- Distributing apps internally via the Apple Developer Enterprise Program
Note
If you are an individual developer (an "Individual" account), you do not need a DUNS number. This requirement applies only to Organization accounts. However, Organization accounts offer many advantages: your company name is displayed, multiple team members can be added, and more.
Apple Developer Enrollment Process: Step by Step
Here is how the complete Apple Developer Program Organization enrollment process works:
Get your DUNS number
Before you even start on the Apple website, get your DUNS number. This is the first step and the most commonly overlooked. With DUNS Verify, it takes 2 minutes.
Create or sign in to an Apple ID
You need an Apple ID associated with your professional email address. This Apple ID will become the Account Holder for your organization.
Start the Organization enrollment
On developer.apple.com, select 'Enroll' and then choose 'Organization'. Fill in your company information.
Enter your DUNS number
Apple uses your DUNS to verify your company's existence. Make sure the information in your D&B profile matches your current legal registration.
Apple verification
Apple contacts D&B to verify your DUNS number. This process typically takes an additional 1 to 2 business days.
Payment and activation
Once verification is complete, you pay the $99/year Apple Developer fee. Your account is then activated.
Real Timelines: What Nobody Tells You
The total time to get your Apple Developer Organization account depends directly on how quickly you obtain your DUNS number. Here is a realistic comparison:
| Step | Via official D&B | Via DUNS Verify |
|---|---|---|
| Obtaining DUNS | 15–30 days | 2 minutes |
| Apple verification | 1–2 days | 1–2 days |
| Total time | 16–32 days | 1–2 days |
Snelle service
Ontvang uw DUNS-nummer in 2 minuten
Geen 30 dagen wachten meer. Ontvang uw D-U-N-S-nummer direct per e-mail, gecertificeerd door Dun & Bradstreet.
Mijn DUNS-nummer verkrijgen — € 4,99Common Pitfalls to Avoid
Pitfall 1: Using a DUNS belonging to another entity
If your company has multiple establishments, make sure you use the DUNS that corresponds exactly to the legal entity you are registering with Apple. A DUNS from another branch will be rejected.
Pitfall 2: D&B information not up to date
If the information in the D&B database (company name, address, director) does not exactly match what you enter with Apple, your application may be rejected. Make sure your D&B profile is current.
Pitfall 3: Confusing individual and Organization DUNS
The DUNS number is tied to the legal entity, not the physical person. Make sure the DUNS is in your company's name (LLC, Corp, etc.) and not your personal name.
Pitfall 4: Waiting for D&B before you start
Start now — don't wait until you need a DUNS to take care of it. Get it in advance so you don't block your process at the last minute.
FAQ: DUNS and Apple Developer
Is my Apple DUNS the same as my regular DUNS?
Yes, it is exactly the same DUNS number. There is no Apple-specific DUNS number. Apple simply uses the standard D&B database to verify your company.
Can Apple reject me even with a valid DUNS?
Yes, if the information does not match exactly (name, address, director), Apple may request additional clarifications. It is rare but it does happen.
How long after getting my DUNS does Apple validate my account?
Generally, 24 to 48 hours after submitting a valid DUNS, Apple validates your Organization account.
Can I use the same DUNS for both Google Play and Apple Developer?
Yes, the same DUNS number can be used for both platforms. This is one of the key advantages of the DUNS system: a single identifier, usable everywhere.
Related articles
Snelle service
Ontvang uw DUNS-nummer in 2 minuten
Geen 30 dagen wachten meer. Ontvang uw D-U-N-S-nummer direct per e-mail, gecertificeerd door Dun & Bradstreet.
Mijn DUNS-nummer verkrijgen — € 4,99