Submit for Review
Review process: Submit → Waiting for Review → In Review → Approved/Rejected. Having test accounts and instructions ready speeds things up significantly; without them, submissions can get “stuck”.
Process Overview
- Attach a build, fill in metadata, submit for review.
- Enter Waiting For Review, queued.
- In Review, you may receive messages or a call.
- Result: Ready for Sale (approved) or Rejected.
Submit → Waiting for Review → In Review → Approved (Ready for Sale)
│
└→ Rejected → Fix → Resubmit
Review Timeline
- Usually 1-3 business days; longer during holidays or peaks.
- External TestFlight testing also needs review, usually faster.
- Special cases (new accounts, sensitive categories) may take longer.
Materials Checklist
- Test account/password and test steps
- VPN/special-environment instructions if needed
- Paid/subscription path; IAP purchasable
- Third-party content/copyright proof (if any)
- Review notes: feature highlights, test path, caveats
App Review Notes are the most effective efficiency lever at submission: write “what this app is → how to log in → how to test core features → any special notes” so reviewers can complete the flow in one pass, dramatically lowering rejection probability.
Handling Rejections
- Read the reason in Resolution Center.
- Fix accordingly (code / metadata / privacy / IAP, etc.).
- Reply in Resolution Center explaining what changed, then resubmit.
- If it’s a mistaken rejection, provide a reproduction video/log.
- For repeated rejections, consider a phone call or formal appeal.
Common Rejection Handling
| Type | Handling |
|---|---|
| Crash / feature unavailable | Fix and upload a new build |
| Metadata mismatch | Fix screenshots/description to match features |
| Privacy declarations insufficient | Add privacy policy / labels / permission descriptions |
| IAP unavailable | Complete IAP metadata and sandbox verification |
| Missing delete-account entry | Implement account deletion and declare it |
Self-Check List
- Correct build attached and metadata complete
- Test accounts and steps ready
- Review notes written
- Timeline understood and release window planned
- A rejection handling plan prepared
FAQ
- How long does Waiting For Review take? No fixed duration; peaks can be long. Be patient — don’t repeatedly “update” builds.
- Can I resubmit immediately after rejection? Fix thoroughly and self-test first to avoid the same rejection.
- How do I contact reviewers? Message via Resolution Center or request a phone call (supported in some cases).
PreviousScreenshots & PreviewsCreate compliant app screenshots and preview videos — resolution requirements, content rules, and localization.
NextReview Guidelines & Common RejectionsUnderstand the App Store Review Guidelines — feature availability, privacy compliance, payment compliance — and prevention strategies.
