Creating Custom Logo SVG Files for BIMI in Gmail

This guide provides an overview of the steps and requirements for creating custom logo SVG files that comply with BIMI (Brand Indicators for Message Identification) standards. BIMI allows your logo to be displayed next to your emails in Gmail, enhancing brand visibility and trust. 

Important Note: BIMI requires a verified DMARC policy with a setting of p=quarantine or p=reject. Ensure your domain’s DMARC record is properly configured and enforced before proceeding.

For detailed instructions, always refer to the official documentation from Google and the BIMI Group.

Step 1: Understand BIMI Requirements  

BIMI requires a verified DMARC policy and either a Verified Mark Certificate (VMC) or a Certified Mark Certificate (CMC) to display your logo in Gmail. The logo itself must be in SVG format and meet specific technical and design guidelines.

Key requirements for the SVG file:  

1. Must be an SVG Tiny Portable/Secure (SVG Tiny PS) file.

2. Aspect Ratio: Square (1:1).  

3. Size: Recommended size is 32x32 pixels for Gmail.  

4. Simplicity: Avoid complex designs, gradients, or text.  

5. Validation: The SVG file must pass validation tools to ensure compliance.  

For full details, refer to the BIMI Group’s SVG Requirements.

Step 2:Convert Your Logo to SVG

MX Toolbox Documentation

1. Your Logo:  

• Use a vector design tool like Adobe Illustrator, Inkscape (free), or Figma.  

• Ensure the logo is simple, scalable, and meets the requirements above.  

2. Export as SVG:  

• Export your logo as an SVG file.  

• Use the "SVG Tiny PS" format if available, as it is the preferred format for BIMI.  

3. Validate the SVG File:  

• Use the BIMI SVG Validation and Generation Tools

• Ensure your file meets the standards.  

• Fix any errors or warnings before proceeding.  

Step 3: Obtain a Verified Mark Certificate (VMC) or Certified Mark Certificate (CMC) 

A VMC or CMC is a digital certificate that verifies your logo’s authenticity. It is required for BIMI implementation.

1. Choose a Certificate Authority (CA):  

• If your logo is trademarked, you’ll need a Verified Mark Certificate (VMC).

• If your logo is not trademarked, you can use a Certified Mark Certificate (CMC).

• Examples of providers offering VMC/CMC services include:

  • DigiCert 

  • Entrust

  • Sectigo

  • GlobalSign

2. Submit Your SVG Logo:  

• Provide your validated SVG file to the CA for certification.  

3. Complete the Verification Process:  

• Follow the CA’s instructions to verify your domain and logo ownership. 

Step 4: Publish Your BIMI Record  

Once you have your VMC or CMC, publish a BIMI DNS record for your domain. The record should include:

• The location of your SVG file.  

• The URL to your VMC.  

Example BIMI DNS record:  

v=BIMI1; l=https://example.com/logo.svg; a=https://example.com/vmc.pem

For detailed instructions, refer to Google’s BIMI documentation.  

Step 5: Test and Monitor  

1. Test Your BIMI Setup:  

• Use tools like MX Toolbox.  

2. Monitor DMARC Compliance:  

• Ensure your DMARC policy is properly configured and enforced. BIMI requires a DMARC policy of `p=quarantine` or `p=reject`.  

Disclaimer  

This guide is intended to provide general information and references to official documentation. For specific implementation details, always refer to the official resources provided by Google, DigiCert, and the BIMI Group. Concepts2Code is not responsible for the accuracy or success of your BIMI implementation.