diff --git a/docs/community-governance.md b/docs/community-governance.md
index c1d30f7bd18..90ba435628c 100644
--- a/docs/community-governance.md
+++ b/docs/community-governance.md
@@ -164,7 +164,12 @@ Mergers are the maintainers who carry out the final merge of approved PRs. Their
 
 #### Becoming a merger
 
-A merger should already be a Gitea maintainer. To apply, use the [Discord](https://discord.gg/Gitea) `#maintainers` channel. Mergers teams may also invite contributors.
+A merger must already be a Gitea maintainer.
+To apply, use the [Discord](https://discord.gg/Gitea) `#maintainers` channel.
+The minimum requirement for applications to become a merger is to have participated actively in the community for at least four months before applying.
+Ultimately, regardless of previous participation, you can only become a merger if the TOC votes in your favor.
+
+You may also be invited by the TOC to become a merger.
 
 ### Technical Oversight Committee (TOC)