Google Business Profile and virtual addresses: what's allowed
Short version: Google decides, not us. Here's what its rules say, and the two honest ways to appear on Google.
What Google’s rules say
Google’s guidelines for representing a business say a business must make in-person contact with customers during its stated hours, and that a virtual office isn’t eligible unless it’s staffed during those hours. In practice that means signage, stated opening hours, and your own staff there to meet customers.
Read them yourself: Guidelines for representing your business on Google and Google’s eligibility guidance.
We don’t sell Google listings. Anyone promising one at a virtual address is promising something only Google can give, and profiles that don’t meet the rules can be suspended or fail video verification.
A service-area profile
Show the areas you serve instead of an address. Your address stays hidden, and it suits businesses that visit customers or work online. Our step-by-step guide is included.
Read the guide →Your sign on our door
- Your logo plaque on our Nameplate door in Preston
- Clients by appointment
- Help with your sign and Google video verification
Use your address on Google Maps, provided you meet Google's eligibility rules (signage, staffed hours, meeting clients on site). We'll help with your sign and video verification, but we can't guarantee Google approves your listing.
You’re responsible for meeting Google’s rules. About Nameplate →
Be wary of guarantees
Some providers advertise addresses as “eligible for Google”. Eligibility depends on how you operate, not on the address. If you won’t be there to meet customers at stated hours, a service-area profile is the safer choice.
Will Google suspend a profile at a virtual address?
It can. Google's guidelines say a virtual office isn't eligible unless it's staffed during business hours, and profiles that don't meet the rules can be suspended, sometimes after video verification.
What is a service-area profile?
A Google Business Profile that shows the areas you serve instead of a street address. It suits businesses that visit customers or work online, and your address stays hidden.
Do you sell Google listings?
No. We don't sell Google listings, on any plan.
Get a real street address today
Pick a plan, verify your ID on your phone, and your address is released once checks pass. Most sole traders are live in minutes.