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Why does my ad say "Not a government website"?

Why Google adds this label to some Search ads, and what private providers of government services need to do.

Google adds this label itself. It appears on Search ads for services related to government documents and official services, such as passports, visas or driver's licences, so people can tell a private business from an official government site.


Can I remove it?

No. Only certified government providers are exempt. Google explains the label on its Government documents and services page.


Do I need to do anything?

The label itself needs no action. But if you are a private business offering these services, Google has other requirements you do need to meet:

  • Certification. To advertise these services, you need Google's Government Documents and Services certification, and Google may also ask you to complete advertiser verification.

  • Your landing page. It must clearly say that you are a private business and not affiliated with any government.

  • Your fees. If the government offers the same service for free or for less, you must say so and link to the official government site.

The full rules are in Google's Other restricted businesses policy, under Government documents and official services.


Need help?

If an ad is disapproved and you are not sure why, log in to your Kliken account and send us a message through the chat messenger. We can tell you which policy Google flagged.


Google's current rules

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