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Step 1 — Register a Business Phone Number

Before connecting to the WhatsApp Business API, you need a phone number that meets Meta's requirements.

Requirements​

  • The phone number must be able to receive SMS or a voice call for verification.
  • It must not be currently registered on WhatsApp (personal or business app).
  • If the number is already on WhatsApp, you must delete that account first.

How to Prepare Your Number​

  1. Choose a phone number you own (mobile, landline, or VoIP supported).
  2. Make sure you can receive an OTP on it during Meta's verification step.
  3. If this number was previously used on WhatsApp:
    • Open WhatsApp on the old device.
    • Go to Settings → Account → Delete my account.
    • Wait 30 days before re-registering (or contact Meta support to expedite).

Register Under Meta Business Manager​

  1. Go to business.facebook.com and log in.
  2. Navigate to Business Settings → Accounts → WhatsApp Accounts.
  3. Click Add and follow the prompts to link your number to your Business Manager.

Tip: Use a dedicated business number. Mixing a personal number with the API causes service interruptions.

Once your number is ready, proceed to Step 2 — Create & Configure a Meta App.