YouTube and Instagram are two of the biggest content platforms. But Instagram doesn’t allow direct video sharing from YouTube — meaning you can’t just paste a link. To post a YouTube video on Instagram, you’ll need to reformat and re-upload it.

Here’s how to do it properly in 2025.

Step 1: Download Your YouTube Video

You’ll need the actual video file, not just the link.

• Use a YouTube Studio export if it’s your own video.

• If you’re repurposing old uploads, you can download your own files directly.

• For videos you don’t own → you must have permission. Downloading without rights risks copyright issues.

Step 2: Edit for Instagram Formats

Each Instagram feature has its own rules:

• Reels: 9:16 vertical, up to 90 seconds, best reach

• Stories: 9:16 vertical, 60 seconds per story (longer clips get split)

• Feed posts: 1:1 square or 4:5 vertical, up to 10 minutes if uploaded via desktop

Editing tips:

• Trim your video to the best-performing moments

• Add captions (80% of users scroll with sound off)

• Adjust framing → wide YouTube videos need cropping to vertical

• Use editing apps like CapCut, InShot, or Premiere Rush

Step 3: Upload to Instagram

• Open Instagram → tap “+” → choose Reel, Story, or Post

• Upload the edited clip

• Add cover image (important for grid layout)

• Write a caption that explains why the video matters

• Use 3–10 hashtags for discoverability

Step 4: Optimize for Engagement

To get the most out of your reposted YouTube video:

• Timing: Post during peak activity (9–11 AM or 6–9 PM)

• Audio: Add trending music on Reels for better reach

• Collaboration: Tag collaborators or brands featured in the video

• CTA: End with “save this,” “share with a friend,” or “watch full on YouTube”

Conclusion:
You can’t directly post a YouTube video link to Instagram, but with simple editing and resizing, you can repurpose your best YouTube clips into Reels, Stories, or feed posts. This way, you expand your reach and keep content working across both platforms.