SummaryWhat are the steps to apply for category level qualification on TikTok Shop via desktop?

• Log in to Seller Center, click Products, then Manage Products, and select 'Add Product'.
• Upload product images, add product name, and choose or accept the auto-recommended category.
• If restricted, click 'Apply now', complete the Add Category Authorization steps, and submit.

Do sellers need to reapply for the same category every time they list a product?

• No, sellers do not need to reapply for the same category for different products within that category once approved.

What should sellers do if their category application is rejected?

• Check the Message Center for rejection reasons and ensure documentation meets requirements before resubmitting.

Introduction

Some product categories on TikTok Shop are restricted and require sellers to apply for category level qualification (e.g. restricted, 'invite-only', etc.) in order to list. Sellers can now apply for category permission while listing their products. In this article, we will provide step-by-step instructions on how to apply to a restricted product category while completing the listings process.
For more information regarding restricted products, please see our academy article TikTok Shop Restricted Products Policy.

Steps

How to apply for Category Level Qualification while listing via Desktop

1. Log in to Seller Center, click Products on the left-hand navigation bar, then click Manage Products
2. Select 'Add Product'
3. Upload product images and add product name
4. Navigate to category. Sellers can choose their category or accept the auto-recommended category. If the category is restricted, sellers will need to apply for additional permission either before or after submitting the listing.

For sellers choosing to apply for category permission before submitting the listing, please complete the following steps:

5. Below the category field, click 'Apply now'
6. A new window will appear. Complete the steps listed within the Add Category Authorization page.
7. Once completed, click ' Submit'. Return to the listings page, complete the remaining fields of your listing and click 'Submit for review'.

Note: Sellers can also choose to apply for category permission after listing the product. After completing your listing (ie click 'Submit for review'), sellers will be redirected to Step 5 to apply and submit the form for category qualification.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

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