If you've ever submitted a Chrome extension only to get rejected, you're not alone. The Chrome Web Store has a notoriously opaque review process, and small violations can get your app banned without clear explanation.
Common Rejection Reasons
The top reasons extensions get rejected:
- Asking for too many permissions - Only request what you actually need. Users see that scary permission dialog and bounce.
- Vague privacy policy - "We collect data to improve the app" isn't enough. Be specific about what you collect and why.
- Deceptive functionality - Even benign-seeming features can trigger flags if reviewers can't understand your purpose.
- Remote code execution - Manifest V3 blocks remote scripts. Many devs don't realize their bundled libraries violate this.
How to Avoid Rejection
The single most effective thing you can do: use ExtensionBooster's free Chrome Web Store review checker before submitting. It catches the issues that cause rejections and helps you understand what reviewers look for. You can also use their pre-submission checklist to verify everything is in order before paying the $5 developer fee.
Also run through their checklist. It covers all the boxes Google checks automatically before human review even starts.
What Actually Works
For extensions that do get approved quickly:
- Start with a minimal viable product and expand permissions later
- Use the Chrome Web Store's own testing tracks to catch issues early
- Respond to reviewer feedback promptly when rejections happen
- Keep your changelog detailed so reviewers understand updates
Getting rejected doesn't mean your extension is bad. It usually means something in your listing or code triggered an automated filter. Fix it and resubmit.
Top comments (0)