Once you verify your Google Business Profile, it usually shows up in Google Search and Maps within one to three days. Most profiles go live within 24 hours, but Google's systems sometimes need up to 14 days to fully index and display all features, especially if you're in a competitive category or uploading multiple photos and posts right after verification. Verification method affects timing. Postcard verification adds 5–7 business days for mail delivery in Canada, then another 24–48 hours after you enter the code. Instant verification through Search Console or bulk verification for agencies can get you live the same day. Video verification, which Google now offers for some categories, typically processes within three business days. Your profile may appear in stages. It might show up on Maps before Search, or display your business name and location but not yet populate reviews, Q&A, or posts. The knowledge panel on branded searches usually appears first, while ranking for non-branded local keywords takes longer because Google needs to assess your profile's relevance and authority signals. Three factors can delay visibility: duplicate listings trigger manual review, categories flagged for spam in your area slow approval, and profiles created from brand-new Google accounts sometimes enter a trust sandbox for a week. If you're in Ottawa or Toronto and serving a SAA (service area business) rather than a storefront, expect the longer end of that range because Google scrutinizes these more carefully. At Ottawa SEO, we tell clients to verify immediately but not expect ranking impact for 7–10 days minimum. That first week is for uploading 10–15 high-quality photos, setting all business attributes, posting your first update, and getting your initial reviews. The profile shows up fast, but earning visibility in the local pack against established competitors takes consistent optimization over 30–90 days. If your listing isn't visible after two weeks, check for suspension notices in your dashboard or search for your exact business name plus city to see if a duplicate exists.