When you invite new members to your Discord server, the default invite link contains a random string of characters. A custom invite link, also called a Vanity URL, replaces that random string with your own word or phrase. For example, instead of discord.gg/AbCdEf, you can have discord.gg/yourgamers. This makes the link easier to remember and more professional. This article explains how to set up a Vanity URL on Discord, including the requirements and steps.
Key Takeaways: Discord Vanity URL Setup
- Server Boost Level 1 (2 boosts): Your server must reach Level 1 before the Vanity URL option appears.
- Server Settings > Vanity URL: The exact menu path where you can create or edit the custom invite link.
- Maximum 20 characters: The Vanity URL can only contain letters, numbers, hyphens, and underscores.
What Is a Vanity URL and What Do You Need to Use It?
A Vanity URL is a custom invite link that points to your server. Instead of a random code, you choose a short, branded word. Discord uses this URL as the main invite link for your server. Anyone who clicks the link joins the server directly.
To use a Vanity URL, your server must meet two requirements. First, the server must have reached Community Server status. Second, the server must have at least Boost Level 1, which requires 2 server boosts. Boosts are purchased with Discord Nitro or received from other members. If your server does not meet these requirements, the Vanity URL setting will not appear in the menu.
Community Server Requirements
To enable Community Server, go to Server Settings > Enable Community. You must agree to Discord’s community guidelines, set up a rules channel, and assign a community moderator. This process takes about five minutes. After enabling, you can access features like Vanity URLs, announcements channels, and server discovery.
Server Boost Level 1
Server boosts are a way for members to support a server. Each boost increases the server’s boost level. Level 1 requires 2 boosts. Level 2 requires 15 boosts. Level 3 requires 30 boosts. You need only Level 1 to unlock the Vanity URL feature. Higher levels provide additional perks like more emoji slots and higher audio quality.
Steps to Set Up a Custom Invite Link Vanity URL
- Open Server Settings
Open Discord and navigate to your server. Click the server name in the top-left corner. From the dropdown menu, select Server Settings. - Go to the Vanity URL Section
In the left sidebar of Server Settings, scroll down to the Community section. Click Vanity URL. If you do not see this option, your server may not meet the requirements listed in the previous section. - Enter Your Custom URL
In the text field, type the word or phrase you want for your Vanity URL. Use only letters, numbers, hyphens, and underscores. The maximum length is 20 characters. Discord will show a preview of the link as you type. For example, typing mygaminghub creates the link discord.gg/mygaminghub. - Save the New Vanity URL
Click the Save Changes button. If the URL is available, Discord will apply it immediately. If the URL is already taken by another server, Discord will display an error. In that case, choose a different word or phrase. - Test the Link
Copy the new Vanity URL from the same page. Open a private browser window or ask a friend to click the link. The link should open Discord and prompt the user to join your server.
If You Cannot Set a Vanity URL
Vanity URL Option Is Missing
If the Vanity URL option does not appear in Server Settings, your server likely does not have Community Server enabled or has not reached Boost Level 1. Check both conditions. Enable Community Server first. Then ask members to boost the server or boost it yourself if you have Discord Nitro. After reaching Level 1, the Vanity URL option appears automatically.
“URL Already Taken” Error
Vanity URLs are unique across all Discord servers. If another server already uses the word you typed, Discord shows an error. Try a different word, add a number, or use a hyphen. For example, if mygaminghub is taken, try mygaminghub-1 or mygaminghub-community.
Vanity URL Does Not Work After Saving
If the Vanity URL does not redirect to your server, wait a few minutes. Discord may take a short time to propagate the change. If the issue persists, go back to Server Settings > Vanity URL and verify that the URL is saved correctly. Also check that your server is not set to private or that the invite link has not expired. Vanity URLs do not expire, but the server must remain accessible to new members.
Discord Vanity URL vs Standard Invite Link
| Item | Vanity URL | Standard Invite Link |
|---|---|---|
| Appearance | discord.gg/yourword | discord.gg/randomcode |
| Customization | You choose the word | Auto-generated random string |
| Requirements | Community Server + Boost Level 1 | None |
| Expiration | Never expires | Can be set to expire |
| Maximum length | 20 characters | Varies |
| Editable | Yes, any time | No, generate a new link |
A Vanity URL is permanent and branded. A standard invite link is temporary and random. Use a Vanity URL for your public community to make joining easy. Use standard invite links for one-time events or private channels where you want to control access.
You can now set up a custom invite link Vanity URL for your Discord server. Start by enabling Community Server and reaching Boost Level 1. Then go to Server Settings > Vanity URL and enter your preferred word. To maintain your Vanity URL, keep your server at Boost Level 1 or higher. If you lose boosts and drop below Level 1, the Vanity URL is disabled until you regain the required boost count.