I have shipped two iOS apps in the last few months, and have had only one very minor rejection for a small oversight: forgetting to include a Terms of Use link in the App Store Connect Description field.
I'm sharing this checklist that I use for every initial app submission to help other iOS developers avoid common pitfalls and get their apps approved on the first try.
App Functionality & Build
First and foremost, your app needs to work without any glaring bugs or issues. These are the basics that Apple expects from every submission:
- App builds successfully in Release mode (not Debug)
- Minimum deployment target set correctly for your intended user base
- All major user flows tested on a physical device (not just simulator)
- No crashes, dead-end screens, or broken navigation
- No placeholder text or unfinished UI elements
- App works without requiring external testers or accounts Apple can't access
Authentication Requirements (Sign in with Apple)
If your app uses third-party login services (like Google, Facebook, or email authentication), you must also offer Sign in with Apple. Here's what you need to verify:
- Sign in with Apple button is present whenever other third-party login options are shown
- Sign in with Apple tested and working properly in your app
- Terms of Service and Privacy Policy are accessible before account creation (users must be able to view them without signing in first)
- Explanation in App Review Notes if you believe your app qualifies for an exemption (rare cases like educational or enterprise apps)
Subscriptions & In-App Purchases
If your app includes subscriptions or in-app purchases, these items need special attention:
- All subscriptions created in App Store Connect
- Correct pricing tier selected
- Subscription display includes required disclosures
- Restore Purchases button present and functioning
- Paywall behavior aligns with Apple guidelines
- Sandbox subscription testing completed successfully
App Store Connect Metadata
Your app's metadata is the first thing reviewers and users see. Make sure it's complete and accurate:
- App Name, Subtitle, and Description completed (don't forget to include Terms link in Description)
- Keywords set strategically
- Support URL and Privacy Policy URL are valid and accessible
- Age rating questionnaire completed accurately
- Screenshots uploaded (iPhone 6.7" required, 6.1" recommended)
- Screenshots accurately reflect the real UI of your app
- At least 60% of screenshots should show the app in use
App Review Notes
Clear communication with the review team can make or break your submission. Include these details in your review notes:
- Explain any login requirements
- Provide test accounts if needed (with clear instructions)
- Explain how to access premium features
- Include Sign in with Apple justification if applicable
Legal & Policy Requirements
Apple takes user privacy and legal compliance seriously. Verify these items:
- Privacy Policy link is reachable and complete
- Terms of Service link is reachable and complete
- Accurate App Privacy responses in App Store Connect
- Analytics usage explained if implemented
- Privacy Policy mentions Sign in with Apple if used
Technical Requirements
These technical details are easy to overlook but critical for approval:
- No hidden features or Easter eggs
- Graceful handling of denied permissions (no crashes)
- Purpose strings in Info.plist for all requested permissions
- No broken external links
- No beta or demo text visible in the UI
Before Submitting
This is your final checklist before you click that submit button:
- Build archived and uploaded to App Store Connect
- Correct version and build number
- Build attached to App Store version
- Export compliance completed
- Submit for Review clicked
This list is by no means all encompassing, but I have tried to cover the most common pitfalls and issues that I have encountered. I hope it helps you get your app through Apple's review process on the first try. Good luck!