In the world of social media, it is considered to be one of the ultimate compliments.

Having a blue tick on your Twitter account suggests that in some way what you have to say is important.

The verification badge is normally only given to high-profile figures, but now the site has revealed it is going to be made available to all users.

It says it wants to help more people find "great, high-quality accounts".

Why does this matter?

This is a big deal for people who use the site, because up until now the verification badge has been reserved for those considered to be "official".

Twitter describes them as "public figures and organisations in music, TV, film, fashion, government, politics, religion, journalism, media, sports, business, and other key interest areas".

The site has 320 million monthly users, 187,000 of those are currently verified.

Why is it happening?

In a blog, Twitter's Tina Bhatnagar says: "Our goal with this update is to help more people find great, high-quality accounts to follow, and for creators and influencers - no matter where they are in the world - to easily connect with a broader audience."

An online form is going to be made available to every user on the site.

Those who wish to apply will have to meet certain criteria, including providing a verified phone number, email address and website.

Tweets will also need to be made public.

If you complete the application process and Twitter decides your account is in the "public interest" they may verify it with the blue tick badge.