How to Submit a Shopify App for Review

Shopify reviews each app within a short time. Delays usually happen when apps have missing info, unclear design, or don’t meet technical or privacy rules.

Key Points

• Shopify app reviews usually complete in 5–10 business days, depending on backlog and app setup.
• Over 60% of rejected apps fail due to missing GDPR webhooks or broken billing flows.
• Apps with clear UI and full documentation are 3x more likely to get first-time approval.

Introduction

Launching a new Shopify app is an exciting milestone—but before it can go live on the Shopify App Store, it must pass Shopify’s rigorous review process. This review ensures your app meets all the technical, design, and policy standards required for public listing.

If you’re working with a reliable app development company or handling the process internally, here’s a comprehensive guide to help you successfully submit your app for review.

Prerequisites for Shopify App Submission

Before you hit submit, make sure your app aligns with the core requirements of Shopify app development:

• Your app complies with Shopify’s App Store Review Guidelines

• You’ve completed all steps in the App Requirements Checklist

• Your app is installed and fully functional in a development store

• Required APIs such as GDPR webhooks, App Bridge, and Billing APIs are implemented

• No use of deprecated or outdated APIs

• App permissions and scopes are clearly defined and justified

For those offering custom shopify app development, always test your app extensively on various store types to ensure compatibility.

Step-by-Step Guide: Submitting Your Shopify App

1. Log in to the Shopify Partner Dashboard

Start by accessing the Shopify Partner Dashboard. This portal allows developers and app development companies to manage apps, view analytics, and handle billing.

2. Create or Select Your App

Navigate to Apps > Your App. If you haven’t already created your app, click on “Create App” and follow the prompts.

3. Complete All Setup Sections

A successful custom Shopify app development project includes well-prepared technical and listing components. Ensure these are complete:

App Setup

• App URL and Redirect URLs

• Webhooks (especially GDPR-related)

• Scopes and permissions are explained clearly

App Listing

• App name, tagline, and description

• Category and pricing plans (if any)

• Support details and contact info

• Test or demo store credentials

• High-quality app icon and screenshots

4. Install the App on a Development Store

Install your app on a test store to simulate a real-world experience. This is where Shopify’s review team will test your app’s core features, integrations, and user flow.

Whether you're an individual developer or a full-fledged app development company, testing in a live-like environment is crucial to prevent rejections.

5. Perform a Pre-Submission Quality Check

Run through this checklist to increase your chances of approval:

• App loads without errors

• GDPR and data privacy endpoints are working

• Billing setup works properly (if applicable)

• The user interface is clean and responsive

• Documentation and support links are live and accessible

• No console warnings or JavaScript errors

6. Submit for Review

• Head to your app’s page in the Partner Dashboard

• Click “App submission” on the left

• Provide all required details, including descriptions and credentials

• Hit Submit

The app will now be assessed by Shopify’s internal team for performance, security, and usability.

What Happens After You Submit Your Shopify App?

Once you've submitted your app for review through the Shopify Partner Dashboard, it enters a structured review process. Here's what to expect next:

Shopify App Review Process

Initial Review: Shopify’s review team will start by assessing your app’s technical performance, user experience (UX), and adherence to platform guidelines. They will examine your app on a development store to verify installation flow, UI responsiveness, performance, and security.

Rejection & Feedback (if applicable): If your app does not meet all criteria, Shopify will email you with details of the specific issues to address. This usually includes a checklist of improvements or corrections required before resubmission.

Approval & Publication: If your app passes all review stages, it will be approved and published on the Shopify App Store. It will then be available publicly for merchants to install.

Review Timeline: The typical review time is 5 to 10 business days, depending on the current volume of submissions and the complexity of your app.

Common Rejection Reasons

• Incomplete or unclear listing information

• Poor user experience or mobile responsiveness

• Missing GDPR compliance

• Using outdated or deprecated APIs

• Billing or loading issues

• Unexplained permissions

Developers involved in Shopify app development must ensure their app is scalable, secure, and user-friendly.

Tips

Whether you're building a public app or investing in custom Shopify app development, remember these tips:

• Use Shopify App Bridge to create seamless in-dashboard experiences

• Include a short video walkthrough to impress reviewers

• Justify every permission scope in the submission

• Address reviewer feedback promptly

If you're unsure about the technicalities, consider hiring a professional app development company that specializes in Shopify app development. This can reduce errors, ensure compliance, and help you launch faster.

Final Words

Submitting your app to the Shopify App Store can be smooth when you understand and follow the platform’s guidelines. From setting up GDPR webhooks to creating an intuitive UI, every step matters. Whether you're a solo developer or working with a trusted app development company, staying informed and prepared is the key to success in the world of custom Shopify app development.