Usernames are shared across accounts, channels, groups and bots, so a good one is often taken. Knowing the rules saves time, and changing a username has side effects you should plan for.
Username rules
- Minimum length is 5 characters; the maximum is 32.
- Allowed characters: Latin letters a–z, digits 0–9 and underscores.
- It cannot start with a digit or an underscore, and cannot end with an underscore.
- Usernames are not case-sensitive and are unique across all accounts, channels, groups and bots.
- Some short or popular names are sold as collectibles on Fragment; see Fragment usernames explained.
Telegram's rules can change, so check the app's message if a name is rejected.
How to set or change a username
| For | Where |
|---|---|
| Your account | Settings → Edit profile → Username |
| A channel | Channel info → Edit → Channel type → Public → set the link |
| A group | Group info → Edit → Group type → Public → set the link |
Only the owner or admins with the right permission can change a channel or group link.
What happens to the old link
- The old t.me link stops working and the old username becomes available to anyone.
- Someone else can claim it and impersonate you, so update links on your website, bio and posts first.
- Switching a channel to private removes the public username entirely.
- Search visibility can take time to settle after a change; see why a channel is not showing in search.
Choosing a good username
- Keep it short and easy to say aloud.
- Avoid digits and underscores that people mistype.
- Match your brand name across platforms where possible.
- Add a clear suffix if the exact name is taken, such as "news", "official" or "hq".
- Do not imitate another brand; impersonation gets reported.
A username is separate from a channel's creation date. If you need an older channel, the username can be set or changed after transfer; compare years on the old Telegram channels page.
Frequently asked questions
How long can a Telegram username be?
Between 5 and 32 characters, using Latin letters, digits and underscores.
Can a Telegram username start with a number?
No. It must start with a letter.
What happens to my old username when I change it?
The old link stops working and the name becomes free for anyone to claim, so update your links first.
How do I change a Telegram channel's username?
Open channel info, tap Edit, choose Channel type, make it public and set the new link. You need to be the owner or an admin with permission.
Does changing the username change the channel's creation date?
No. The creation date stays the same; only the public link changes.
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