Navigating Shopify App Approval: What to Expect and How to Speed Things Up

Hey everyone,

I was just browsing through the Shopify Partner Community forums and saw a post from scrolltotop that really resonated with a lot of developers. They mentioned submitting their app for approval back on January 28th and were still waiting. It’s a completely understandable feeling, isn’t it? That period between hitting ‘submit’ and getting the green light can feel like an eternity, and it’s a question that pops up a lot in our community discussions.

Understanding the Shopify App Approval Process

First off, scrolltotop, you’re definitely not alone in feeling anxious during the waiting game. The Shopify App Store is a fantastic ecosystem, but for good reason, they have a rigorous approval process. This isn’t just to make our lives harder; it’s genuinely to ensure that every app listed provides a secure, reliable, and high-quality experience for store owners. Think about it: every app reflects on Shopify’s brand, so they need to be thorough.

When you submit an app, it goes through a multi-stage review. This typically involves:

• Automated Checks: Initial scans for basic compliance, security vulnerabilities, and technical requirements.
• Manual Review: A human reviewer from the Shopify team will actually install and test your app. They’re looking at everything from functionality and user experience to security best practices and adherence to the Shopify App Store Requirements. This includes making sure your app provides clear value, handles data securely, and integrates seamlessly.
• Policy Compliance: Ensuring your app doesn’t violate any of Shopify’s terms of service or developer policies.

What Are Typical Approval Times?

This is the million-dollar question, and frankly, it’s where the community often shares a mixed bag of experiences. While Shopify aims for efficiency, the truth is that approval times can vary significantly. I’ve seen apps get approved in a couple of days, and others (like scrolltotop’s current situation) take several weeks, sometimes even a month or more, especially if it’s a complex app or if there’s a backlog.

• Average Wait: Many developers report an average wait time of 1-3 weeks for initial review.
• Factors Influencing Speed:
  • App Complexity: Simpler apps with fewer permissions might sail through faster.
  • Quality of Submission: A perfectly documented, bug-free app with clear instructions will naturally get a smoother review.
  • Current Volume: Like any review team, Shopify’s can experience peak times, leading to longer waits.
  • Holidays/Weekends: Submitting right before a major holiday can definitely extend the wait.

Given that scrolltotop submitted on January 28th, and depending on when they posted, they might be approaching or past the average. It’s definitely a point where you start wondering what’s going on.

Actionable Steps While You Wait (and If You’re Concerned)

So, what can you do if you’re in scrolltotop’s shoes, patiently (or not-so-patiently) waiting?

1. Double-Check Your Submission Details

While you can’t recall your submission, it’s a good idea to mentally (or actually) review everything you sent in. This is a common piece of advice from experienced developers in the community. Did you:

• Provide clear test credentials? If your app requires a login, did you include working demo credentials? This is crucial for the reviewer.
• Outline all app features? Make sure your app listing and testing instructions clearly explain what your app does and how to test its core functionalities.
• Ensure all features are working perfectly? Even a minor bug can cause a delay or rejection.
• Adhere to the UI/UX best practices? Shopify has guidelines for how apps should look and feel within the admin.
• Check for broken links or missing assets?

Sometimes, a reviewer might find something missing or unclear, which slows down the process as they might need to request more information.

2. Monitor Your Partner Dashboard

The first place to check for any updates is your Shopify Partner Dashboard. Look for the “Apps” section and then navigate to your submitted app. The status should be visible there. Any communication from the review team, whether it’s an approval, a request for more information, or a rejection with feedback, will usually appear here or in your associated email inbox.

3. When and How to Contact Shopify Partner Support

If you’ve been waiting for a significant amount of time (say, beyond 3-4 weeks without any status change or communication) and you’re growing concerned, it’s absolutely appropriate to reach out to Shopify Partner Support. The community generally advises against pestering them daily, but a polite inquiry after a reasonable waiting period is perfectly fine.

Here’s how you can do it:

1. Log in to your Shopify Partner Dashboard.
2. Navigate to “Support” usually found in the bottom left sidebar or top right corner.
3. Click on “Create support ticket” or “Contact Support”.
4. Clearly state your app’s name and the submission date. Explain that you’re inquiring about the status of your app approval and provide any relevant submission IDs if you have them.
5. Be polite and patient. Remember, they’re working through a queue.

They should be able to give you an update on where your app is in the review pipeline or if there are any specific issues holding it up.

4. Prepare for Launch (Mentally and Practically)

While waiting, don’t just sit idle! This is a great time to:

• Refine your app listing: Work on compelling screenshots, a clear description, and a strong value proposition.
• Plan your marketing: How will you tell store owners about your awesome new app?
• Set up support channels: Ensure you have a clear way for users to contact you for help once the app is live.

Ultimately, scrolltotop, the waiting game is tough, but it’s a necessary part of launching a quality app on Shopify. The community’s collective experience shows that while it can take time, patience and proactive preparation are your best tools. Keep an eye on your dashboard, and if it’s truly beyond the typical window, don’t hesitate to reach out to Partner Support. Good luck with your approval, and I hope to see your app live on the Shopify App Store soon!

Happy building!