How Long Does It Take for a BIMI Logo to Appear in Inbox?

Implementing a BIMI logo involves several steps and timelines. Follow this guide to understand how long it may take and what factors influence the process.

1. DNS Propagation

When you update your DNS record to include the BIMI TXT entry, it can take 24–48 hours for the changes to propagate across the internet. This process ensures that email providers can access and validate your BIMI setup.

Steps to Check DNS Propagation:

• Use online tools like WhatsMyDNS to confirm that the BIMI TXT record is visible globally.
• Ensure the DNS entry matches your BIMI-compliant logo’s URL and, if applicable, the Verified Mark Certificate (VMC) file.

2. Email Provider Processing

Different email providers have varying timelines to recognize and process your BIMI configuration.

Major Providers:

• Gmail and Yahoo: After DNS propagation, these providers validate your BIMI setup. If your SPF, DKIM, DMARC, and BIMI records are correct, your logo should appear in 1–7 days.
• Other Providers: Smaller or less common email providers may take longer to recognize and display your BIMI logo.

Key Tip:

• Use tools like BIMI Group's Generator to confirm that your setup is valid and visible to email providers.

3. Verification of VMC

If you’ve implemented a Verified Mark Certificate (VMC), some additional time may be required for the certificate to be validated by email providers.

Timeline:

• The VMC validation process typically adds 1–2 days after DNS propagation.
• Ensure your VMC is hosted on a secure HTTPS server and linked correctly in your BIMI DNS record.

4. Email Engagement and Volume

Some email providers take email engagement and sending volume into account before displaying a BIMI logo. This ensures the legitimacy of your domain and email activity.

Suggestions:

• Start sending a small volume of legitimate emails to build trust.
• Ensure recipients engage with your emails by opening them or clicking links.

Troubleshooting BIMI Delays

If your BIMI logo doesn’t appear after 1 week:

1. Check DNS Records: Use a DNS lookup tool to ensure all BIMI-related records are correctly propagated.
2. Validate Email Authentication:
   • SPF: Ensure your SPF record includes all authorized sending IPs.
   • DKIM: Confirm DKIM signatures are being applied to outgoing emails.
   • DMARC: Use a reject or quarantine policy for better compliance.
3. Inspect with BIMI Tools:
   • Use BIMI Group's Generator to identify issues with your setup.

Summary Timeline

If you experience delays or need assistance, consult troubleshooting tools or reach out to your email provider. Following these steps ensures a smoother BIMI implementation process.