How to Get the Expert-Vetted Badge on Upwork: A Step-by-Step Guide

In the competitive world of freelancing, trust and credibility are everything. Platforms like Upwork and Fiverr reward top-performing freelancers with exclusive badges to distinguish them from the rest. One such powerful recognition is the Expert-Vetted Badge on Upwork.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through how to get the Expert-Vetted Badge on Upwork, and we’ll briefly compare it with the Fiverr Expert-Vetted Badge to help you understand the broader value of these credentials.

🏅 What Is the Expert-Vetted Badge?

The Expert-Vetted Badge is Upwork’s highest level of freelancer recognition. It signifies that a freelancer has been thoroughly screened by Upwork’s talent team and verified for exceptional skills, communication, and professionalism. Only the top 1% of talent on the platform receive this honor.

✅ Benefits of the Expert-Vetted Badge

• Priority Access to premium clients and enterprise-level jobs

• Increased visibility in search results

• Stronger credibility and client trust

• Higher pay opportunities and long-term contracts

🛠️ Step-by-Step: How to Get the Expert-Vetted Badge on Upwork

1. Start with a Strong Profile

Ensure your profile is 100% complete:

• Use a professional photo

• Write a compelling bio

• List your top skills and relevant certifications

• Add a strong portfolio

2. Earn Rising Talent or Top Rated Status

While not mandatory, these badges show consistent performance, which increases your chances of being noticed for expert vetting.

3. Get Invited to the Vetting Process

Upwork typically invites freelancers to the vetting process based on:

• A strong work history

• Excellent client feedback

• High earnings and consistent job success

You can’t apply for the Expert-Vetted Badge directly — Upwork chooses freelancers based on data.

4. Complete a Screening Process

Once invited, you’ll go through:

• A profile review

• A live interview with a talent specialist

• A skill-based assessment or test project (for some categories)

5. Pass and Get the Badge

After passing all assessments, the badge will be added to your profile, and you’ll gain access to premium job invitations and client offers.

🔄 Upwork vs Fiverr Expert-Vetted Badge: Key Differences

While Upwork has the Expert-Vetted Badge, Fiverr offers a similar level of recognition through their Fiverr Expert-Vetted Badge under Fiverr Pro and Fiverr Business.

Both badges serve the same purpose — building trust and authority in your niche — but the process and benefits slightly differ depending on the platform.