Apple Developer Account
Before you can publish any app on the App Store, you need to enroll in the Apple Developer Program. This is Apple’s paid membership that gives you access to app distribution, App Store Connect, and all the tools needed to publish your app.Already have an Apple Developer account? Skip to Expo Account →
Why Do You Need This?
Without an Apple Developer account, you can only run apps on your own device during development. The Apple Developer Program unlocks:- App Store distribution — publish apps for anyone to download
- App Store Connect — manage your app listings, pricing, and analytics
- TestFlight — distribute beta versions to testers before launch
- In-App Purchases & Subscriptions — monetize your app through Apple’s payment system
- Push Notifications — send notifications to your users
One account = unlimited apps. You can publish as many apps as you want with a single $99/year membership. There’s no per-app fee.
Individual vs Organization Account
Apple offers two types of developer accounts. Here’s how to choose:Individual Account
Best for: Solo developers, indie hackers, side projects| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Cost | $99/year |
| Approval time | 24-48 hours |
| Requirements | Just an Apple ID and valid payment method |
| App Store name | Your personal legal name (e.g., “John Smith”) |
| Ideal for | Personal projects, MVPs, testing ideas |
Organization Account
Best for: Companies, startups with a registered business, apps that need to show a company name| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Cost | $99/year |
| Approval time | 1-2 weeks (requires verification) |
| Requirements | D-U-N-S Number, legal entity, authority to bind organization |
| App Store name | Your company name (e.g., “Acme Inc.”) |
| Ideal for | Client work, businesses, apps representing a company |
Quick Decision Guide
| If you… | Choose… |
|---|---|
| Are launching your first app | Individual |
| Want to ship quickly | Individual |
| Have a registered LLC or company | Organization (but Individual works too) |
| Are building for a client | Organization (shows their company name) |
| Just want to test an idea | Individual |
| Need your company name on the App Store | Organization |
Step-by-Step Enrollment
Step 1: Create an Apple ID (if needed)
If you already have an Apple ID, skip to Step 2.- Go to appleid.apple.com
- Click Create Your Apple ID
- Use an email you have access to — Apple will send verification codes here
- Set up two-factor authentication (required)
Use an email you check regularly. Apple sends important notifications about your app reviews and account status here.
Step 2: Enroll in the Developer Program
1
Visit the enrollment page
2
Sign in with your Apple ID
Use the Apple ID you want associated with your developer account
3
Select account type
Choose Individual or Organization based on the guide above
4
Complete your profile
Enter your legal name and address exactly as they appear on your ID. Apple verifies this information.
5
Pay the $99 annual fee
Apple accepts all major credit cards
6
Wait for approval
- Individual: 24-48 hours
- Organization: 1-2 weeks (Apple verifies your business)
After Approval
Once approved, you’ll have access to:App Store Connect
appstoreconnect.apple.com This is where you:- Create your app listing
- Set up in-app purchases and subscriptions
- View sales and analytics
- Manage TestFlight beta testing
- Submit your app for review
Developer Portal
developer.apple.com/account This is where you:- Create App IDs and bundle identifiers
- Manage certificates and provisioning profiles
- Configure capabilities (push notifications, Sign in with Apple, etc.)
While You Wait
Apple’s approval takes time, but you don’t have to wait to continue. Do these next:Set Up Expo Account
Required for building your app — free and takes 5 minutes
Create Service Accounts
Set up Supabase, RevenueCat, and MixPanel
FAQ
Can I publish unlimited apps with one account?
Can I publish unlimited apps with one account?
Yes. There’s no limit to how many apps you can publish with a single $99/year membership.
Can I switch from Individual to Organization later?
Can I switch from Individual to Organization later?
Yes, but it requires creating a new developer account. Your apps can be transferred to the new account.
Do I need a Mac to publish on the App Store?
Do I need a Mac to publish on the App Store?
Yes. iOS development requires macOS. You’ll need a Mac to run Xcode and submit your app.
What if my enrollment is rejected?
What if my enrollment is rejected?
Apple usually provides a reason. Common issues: name mismatch with ID, invalid payment method, or missing business verification for Organization accounts.
Is the $99 fee per app or per year?
Is the $99 fee per app or per year?
Per year. One fee covers unlimited apps for 12 months.