Facebook, along with its parent company Meta, has specific policies regarding account creation and user interaction on its platform. Unlike typical anonymous services, Facebook enforces a one-account-per-person rule. However, it does permit users to create multiple profiles that are connected to a single main Facebook account.
Drawing inspiration from Japanese philosophy, which suggests we have three faces—one for the public, one for family, and one for our innermost selves—these profiles enable users to present different aspects of their lives or interests. For instance, one profile can be dedicated to connecting with friends, while another can focus on networking and selling items on Facebook Marketplace.
In the following guide, we will explore what to expect when creating these additional Facebook profiles, the steps to set them up, and how to switch between your new profiles and your main account.
Facebook, along with its parent company Meta, has specific policies regarding account creation and user interaction on its platform. Unlike typical anonymous services, Facebook enforces a one-account-per-person rule. However, it does permit users to create multiple profiles that are connected to a single main Facebook account.
Drawing inspiration from Japanese philosophy, which suggests we have three faces—one for the public, one for family, and one for our innermost selves—these profiles enable users to present different aspects of their lives or interests. For instance, one profile can be dedicated to connecting with friends, while another can focus on networking and selling items on Facebook Marketplace.
In the following guide, we will explore what to expect when creating these additional Facebook profiles, the steps to set them up, and how to switch between your new profiles and your main account.
Can You Create Multiple Profiles for a Facebook Account?
Yes, you can create multiple profiles for a Facebook account. Facebook began testing this feature in 2022, and it is now available on both the desktop website and the mobile app. Here’s what you need to know:
Profile Limits: You can create up to four additional profiles linked to your main Facebook account, allowing for a total of five profiles: one main profile and four auxiliary ones.
Login Access: The login credentials for your main account will also grant you access to your additional profiles. After logging in, you can easily switch between your profiles as needed.
Display Names and Usernames: Each additional profile will have its own display name and username. You can choose these names, and they do not have to reflect your real name. However, they must comply with Facebook's guidelines, meaning you cannot impersonate others, misrepresent yourself, or use usernames that are purely generic or location-based.
Unique Features: Each auxiliary profile will have its own News Feed, friends list, and the ability to follow Pages and groups. You can add friends and customize privacy settings for each profile.
Creating a New Facebook Profile via the Desktop Website
While Facebook's official Help Center states that additional profiles can only be created through the mobile app, we’ve observed that this feature is also functional on the desktop website. We tested it, and it appears to work well. It’s possible that the desktop functionality is available but not yet accessible to all users.
If the feature is active for you on the desktop site and you prefer to create your profiles there, follow the instructions below:
How to Create a New Facebook Profile via the Desktop Website
Step 1: Open your web browser and navigate to [Facebook.com](https://www.facebook.com). Log in to your main account if you haven't done so already.
Step 2: Click on your profile picture icon located in the top-right corner. From the dropdown menu, select See all profiles.
Step 3: In the menu that appears, choose Create new profile. You will likely see a welcome screen introducing you to the option of creating additional profiles. Click on Get started to proceed.
Step 4: On the profile creation screen, look for the form on the right side under the header What do you want to go by?
- In the Profile name text box, enter your desired name for the new profile.
- The Username text box below will automatically generate a unique username based on your profile name. You can use this auto-generated username or create your own.
As you scroll down the form, you'll find optional sections for adding a cover photo or profile photo. Click on Add photo to upload images if you wish.
Step 5: After filling out the form, click on Continue. Review the information presented on the Important profile information screen, then select Create profile.
Step 6: Once your new profile is created, you'll be directed to your new profile's page. A series of guided steps will help you finish setting up your profile. These steps include:
- Adding profile photos
- Joining Facebook groups
- Following Pages of public figures and celebrities
- Adding friends
- Managing your profile settings
You can skip these steps by clicking Next for each one and then select Finish when it appears to exit the guided setup.
And that's it! You've successfully created a new Facebook profile via the desktop website.
Step 7: Note: If you plan to create additional Facebook profiles, be aware that Facebook requires you to wait 72 hours before you can make another profile.
Creating a New Facebook Profile via the Mobile App
If the desktop method isn't available for you, you can create new Facebook profiles using the mobile app. Here’s how to do it:
Step 1: Open the Facebook app on your mobile device and log into your account if you haven't already.
Step 2: Tap the Three-line menu icon (on Android, this may be combined with your profile picture).
Step 3: Near the top of the Menu screen, you’ll see a button displaying your main account's name and photo. This button has a Down arrow icon next to it; tap this icon. (iOS users might see a Plus sign icon next to their names.)
Step 4: In the Your profiles and pages menu that appears, select Create new profile.
From there, simply follow the on-screen prompts to set up your new Facebook profile.
Note: If you plan to create more than one additional Facebook profile, be aware that Facebook requires you to wait 72 hours before creating another profile.
