WhatsApp Business API Setup Requirements Checklist

Setting up the WhatsApp Business API involves more than just signing up. This checklist outlines every step needed to get started, from Meta verification to template approvals, so you can launch smoothly and stay compliant.

Basic Eligibility Requirements

Before anything else, your business must meet WhatsApp's baseline criteria:

• A registered and legally operating business with official documentation, such as a certificate of incorporation or tax ID (e.g., GST certificate for businesses in India)
• A live business website with a clearly accessible privacy policy
• Operate in a supported region and industry (certain industries like gambling or firearms are restricted)
• A dedicated phone number that is not registered on any existing WhatsApp account or app, this number will be shown to message recipients
• A valid payment method, such as a credit or debit card, linked in your WhatsApp Manager account
• Agreement to Meta's Commerce and Business Policies

These requirements help prevent spam and misuse, ensuring that only legitimate businesses are allowed to use the WhatsApp Business API.

Meta Business Manager Setup

Create or access your Meta Business Manager:

• Complete your business profile by adding accurate company details such as legal name, address, and business category
• Assign appropriate roles to team members (Admin, Developer, Finance, etc.) to manage access securely
• Verify your business identity by submitting official documentation like business registration certificates or tax IDs through Meta’s verification process

Learn more about the WhatsApp API basics →

WhatsApp Business Account (WABA)

Create a WABA inside your Meta Business Manager:

• Add and verify a dedicated phone number
• Set up your display name
• Select your messaging category: Marketing, Utility, or Authentication

Business Verification

You must verify your business to unlock messaging features:

• Submit legal documents (registration certificates, tax ID, etc.)
• Wait for Meta to review and approve your verification request

Phone Number Setup

• Use a dedicated phone number (landline or mobile, but not already on WhatsApp)
• Receive the verification code via SMS or voice call

Opt-In System (Required)

You need user consent before messaging:

• Provide opt-in on your website, lead form, checkout page, or offline channels
• Clearly explain what types of messages they will receive

How opt-in works with the API →

Privacy Policy & Compliance

Make your privacy policy publicly available:

• Include how you use WhatsApp for communication
• Follow regional privacy laws (GDPR, CCPA, etc.)

Messaging Platform

You can either:

• Use the Cloud API directly (for developers)
• Use a platform like Sanoflow to manage templates, campaigns, flows, and integrations

See Sanoflow’s tools for automation and insights →

Message Templates

To send proactive messages, you need pre-approved templates:

• Submit templates under Marketing, Utility, or Authentication
• Personalize with variables (e.g., name, order ID)
• Follow format and category rules

Learn about message types →

Testing Environment

Before launching, test your setup:

• Check message delivery and webhook integration
• Preview flows and automation triggers
• Test templates using platforms like Sanoflow

Use flows to guide conversations →

Go Live & Monitor

Once everything is set:

• Monitor message costs, template performance, and campaign results
• Keep your quality rating high by avoiding spammy content
• Use segmentation to control messaging volume

Track conversions and ROI →

FAQs: WhatsApp API Setup

Is a verified business account required for the WhatsApp Business API?

Yes. Business verification is required to use the WhatsApp Business API effectively. Without it, you won’t be able to send template messages, build Flows, or access campaign and automation tools.

Can I use my regular phone number for WhatsApp API?

No. The number must not already be registered on WhatsApp or the WhatsApp Business App. You’ll need a dedicated phone number, either mobile or landline, that can receive verification calls or SMS.

Do I need a Business Solution Provider (BSP) or can I use the WhatsApp API directly?

You can access the WhatsApp Cloud API directly if you have a technical team. However, using a platform like Sanoflow makes things easier. It handles setup, approval workflows, CRM integration, automation, reporting, and more, without requiring developer time.

How do I get approved to send marketing messages via WhatsApp API?

To send WhatsApp marketing messages using the API, you need:

• A verified WhatsApp Business Account (WABA)
• Pre-approved message templates for the "Marketing" category
• Opt-in consent from each recipient

Discover how to use the WhatsApp API for marketing →

Discover how to use the API for marketing →

Where can I see examples of successful use cases?

Explore real business case studies →

By following this checklist, your business will be well-prepared to launch with the WhatsApp Business API—confidently and compliantly. For an easier setup and full-featured experience, consider launching your WhatsApp channel with Sanoflow.