Telegram chat_id format explained (with examples)

The chat_id in the Telegram Bot API has a consistent format. Understanding it helps when building integrations.

Private chat

Format: Positive integer
Value: Equals the user’s Telegram user ID
Example: 123456789

In a private chat, chat_id is the same as the user’s ID. Get yours: open @print_id_bot, tap Start, and copy the User ID.

Group and supergroup

Format: Negative integer
Example: -1001234567890

Group and supergroup IDs are typically negative. Add @print_id_bot to the group and send /id to get the chat_id. See why chat_id can be negative.

Channel

Format: Negative integer
Example: -1009876543210

Channel IDs are also negative. Forward a channel post to @print_id_bot to get the channel ID. See get Telegram channel ID.

Summary table

Chat type	Sign	Example
Private	Positive	`123456789`
Group	Negative	`-1001234567890`
Supergroup	Negative	`-1001234567890`
Channel	Negative	`-1009876543210`

Use in API calls

Pass the chat_id as-is. Do not modify the sign. For example:

sendMessage?chat_id=-1001234567890&text=Hello

Migration note

When a group becomes a supergroup, the chat_id can change. Always use the current value from @print_id_bot or your updates. See group vs supergroup chat_id.

FAQ

Can chat_id be zero?

No. Valid chat_ids are non-zero integers. Private chats are positive; groups and channels are negative.

Why is my group ID so long?

Supergroup and channel IDs often have many digits. This is normal. Use the full value.

Is the format same for all Bot API methods?

Yes. sendMessage, sendPhoto, and other methods use the same chat_id format.

Can I have the same chat_id for different chats?

No. Each chat has a unique chat_id.

Where do I see the format in an update?

Use @print_id_bot’s /dump in private chat. The output shows message.chat.id or channel_post.chat.id. The raw JSON has the exact value.

Get chat_id examples with @print_id_bot.

Open @print_id_bot