How to Get the WhatsApp Business API

Updated

Quick answer: To get the WhatsApp Business API, sign up with a Meta-approved provider such as Advertz, log in with Facebook through Meta's Embedded Signup, create or choose your Meta Business portfolio, add a phone number that is not active on the WhatsApp app, verify it with an OTP, and set your display name. You can start sending within minutes; completing Meta Business Verification raises your daily messaging limit.

From a phone number to sending your first approved template — usually in under 30 minutes.

You cannot download the WhatsApp Business API like an app — you access it through a provider that connects your number to Meta. Here is the exact process, what you need ready, and what happens after you connect.

  • No coding needed with Embedded Signup
  • Use a number not currently registered on the WhatsApp app
  • Business Verification unlocks higher sending limits

What you need before you start

  • A Facebook account with access to your business's Meta Business portfolio (or create one during signup)
  • A phone number that can receive an SMS or call — not active on the WhatsApp or WhatsApp Business app (delete it there first if it is)
  • Your business name, website and a display name that matches your brand
  • A payment method to add in Meta for message charges

Step-by-step setup

  1. Create a free Advertz account. Sign up at advertz.co/register — no credit card required.
  2. Open Link Meta WhatsApp. In your dashboard, start Meta's Embedded Signup and log in with Facebook.
  3. Choose your business portfolio. Select an existing Meta Business portfolio or create a new one, and create a WhatsApp Business Account inside it.
  4. Add and verify your phone number. Enter the number, set your display name, and confirm it with the OTP Meta sends by SMS or call.
  5. Add a payment method in Meta. Add a card in Meta Business billing so Meta can bill template message charges directly.
  6. Create and send your first template. Create a message template, wait for Meta's approval (often minutes), and send your first campaign.

After you connect: messaging limits

New numbers start with a limit on how many unique customers you can message with templates in 24 hours. Completing Meta Business Verification and keeping a good quality rating (few blocks and reports) raises the limit step by step. Replies to customers who message you first are not limited.

Common problems and fixes

  • "Number already registered" — delete the number from the WhatsApp app first, then retry
  • Display name rejected — use a name that matches your business and website
  • Template rejected — remove vague or promotional wording from utility templates, and avoid variables at the very start or end

Frequently asked questions

Can I use my existing WhatsApp number for the API?

Yes, but it must be removed from the WhatsApp or WhatsApp Business app first. Once on the API, the number is used through a platform like Advertz instead of the phone app.

How long does WhatsApp Business API approval take?

With Embedded Signup the number is usually live in under 30 minutes. Meta Business Verification, which raises sending limits, can take a few days.

Do I need a registered company?

You can start without one, but Meta Business Verification — needed for higher limits — requires business documents such as GST or incorporation details.

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