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Getting startedIn development6 min read · updated 2026-07-28

Connect WhatsApp

What you need before connecting a WhatsApp Business number, and the order of the steps.

Before you begin

  • A phone number that is not currently active on the WhatsApp consumer or Business app
  • A Meta Business account with admin access
  • A verified business display name
  • Someone who can receive the verification code on that number

Number reuse

If the number is already registered to a personal WhatsApp account it must be deleted from that account first. This can take several minutes to propagate on Meta's side.

Connection steps

  1. 1

    Open Channels → Add WhatsApp

    Start the guided connection flow from your workspace.

  2. 2

    Authorise the Meta Business account

    You are redirected to Meta and asked to grant access to the business and number.

  3. 3

    Verify the number

    Enter the SMS or voice code sent to the number you are connecting.

  4. 4

    Set the display profile

    Business name, description, address, category and profile image.

  5. 5

    Send a test message

    Message the number from a personal device and confirm it lands in the shared inbox.

After connection

New numbers begin at the lowest messaging tier defined by Meta. Quality and volume limits increase over time based on how recipients respond, which is why template quality matters from day one.

Frequently asked

Can I keep using the WhatsApp Business app on the same number?

No. A number can either be on the app or connected to a platform through the API, not both.

How long does connection take?

The technical steps take minutes. Business verification on Meta's side can take longer and is outside our control.

6 min read