diff --git a/bookwyrm/views/wellknown.py b/bookwyrm/views/wellknown.py
index de4f7e62..a9b35b63 100644
--- a/bookwyrm/views/wellknown.py
+++ b/bookwyrm/views/wellknown.py
@@ -108,7 +108,8 @@ def instance_info(_):
             "thumbnail": logo,
             "languages": ["en"],
             "registrations": site.allow_registration,
-            "approval_required": site.allow_registration and site.allow_invite_requests,
+            "approval_required": not site.allow_registration
+            and site.allow_invite_requests,
             "email": site.admin_email,
         }
     )