How-To

How to set up BIMI and display your logo in the inbox

Inboxlogy6 min readUpdated 2026-10-26

In short: To set up BIMI: confirm your DMARC is at quarantine or reject, prepare an SVG P/S logo, generate the record with the free BIMI Generator, decide whether you need a VMC, then publish the TXT record at default._bimi.yourdomain.com. The generator gives you a checklist so nothing is missed.

On this page

  1. Step 1: Confirm DMARC enforcement
  2. Step 2: Prepare a compliant logo
  3. Step 3: Generate and publish the record
  4. Step 4: Decide on a VMC

Step 1: Confirm DMARC enforcement

BIMI will not work without DMARC at p=quarantine or p=reject. Check yours with the DMARC Checker. If you are still at none, move up using the DMARC Generator and the staged rollout before continuing.

Your logo must be SVG Tiny Portable/Secure (SVG P/S): square aspect ratio, a solid (non-transparent) background, title metadata, and no scripts or external references. Most design exports need converting to this restricted profile. Host the final file somewhere stable over HTTPS.

Step 3: Generate and publish the record

  1. Open the BIMI Generator. Go to the free Inboxlogy BIMI Generator.
  2. Enter your logo URL. Paste the HTTPS link to your SVG file.
  3. Add a VMC URL if you have one. Leave it blank if not.
  4. Copy the record. The tool outputs the v=BIMI1 TXT record.
  5. Publish it. Add it at default._bimi.yourdomain.com in your DNS.

Step 4: Decide on a VMC

If you want your logo in Gmail, you need a Verified Mark Certificate, which requires a registered trademark and is purchased from an authorised provider. For Apple Mail and other supporting inboxes, you can skip the VMC for now. Add it later and update your BIMI record when you do. Use the generator's checklist to track what is still outstanding.

Set up BIMI the right way

Generate your record and follow a checklist covering DMARC, the SVG logo and VMC requirements.

Open the BIMI Generator →All free tools

Frequently asked questions

How long does BIMI take to show up?
After publishing and meeting all requirements, logos can take time to appear as inboxes revalidate, often a few days. DNS propagation and provider caching both play a part.
Can I set up BIMI without a VMC?
Yes, for inboxes that do not require one, such as Apple Mail. Gmail requires a VMC to display your logo. You can publish BIMI now and add a VMC later.
Why isn't my BIMI logo showing?
Common reasons: DMARC is still at none, the SVG is not in the required P/S profile, the logo is not square or lacks a solid background, or the provider needs a VMC you do not have yet.
Is the BIMI Generator free?
Yes. It builds your record and checklist in the browser at no cost and without an account. The only possible cost in a BIMI setup is an optional VMC, which is bought separately.

Keep reading

BIMI GeneratorBuild a BIMI record + checklistDMARC CheckerRead your DMARC policy in plain EnglishDMARC GeneratorBuild a DMARC record step by stepDNS Record CheckerLook up A, MX, TXT, NS in one click