How to Apply for the WhatsApp Business API in India (Step-by-Step)
Quick answer: You apply through a Meta-approved provider such as Growwup. You log in with your Meta Business account, verify a phone number and create your WhatsApp Business Account. You can start sending without business verification, but you need it to raise your sending limits.
What you need before you apply
- Meta Business portfolio (earlier called Business Manager) where you are an admin.
- A phone number that can receive an SMS or voice call for the verification code. A number that is not already used on the WhatsApp app is the simplest. See using an existing number.
- Business name and website that match each other. Meta uses them to review your display name.
- Business documents for verification (see Meta business verification). Not needed to start, needed to scale.
- A payment method for Meta message charges where your setup requires it. See pricing.
- A business that follows the WhatsApp Business Messaging Policy and Commerce Policy.
Step-by-step process
- Create your Growwup account. Start the 30-day free trial at app.growwups.in.
- Connect WhatsApp. Growwup is a Meta Tech Provider, so you connect through Meta's official sign-up flow and log in with your Facebook account.
- Select or create your Meta Business portfolio and a WhatsApp Business Account.
- Add your business profile. Enter the business name, category, website and display name.
- Verify your phone number with the code Meta sends by SMS or call.
- Create your first message template and wait for Meta's approval. See message templates.
- Send a test message to your own number, then set up your chatbot, inbox and campaigns.
The exact screens in Meta's flow change from time to time. If you get stuck, message us on WhatsApp and we will help you through it.
What happens after you connect
- You can reply to customers who message you with no template needed, inside the 24-hour window.
- You can send business-initiated messages with approved templates, within your starting messaging limit.
- To increase the limit and get your display name shown to customers, complete business verification and keep your quality rating healthy. See messaging limits.
Common mistakes that delay approval
- Business name, website and display name do not match.
- Website is empty, under construction or missing contact details.
- Using a phone number that is still active on the WhatsApp app.
- Submitting documents with a different business name or address.
Frequently asked questions
Is business verification compulsory to start?
No. You can get started without it. Meta asks for business verification when you want higher messaging limits and display name approval.
How long does the WhatsApp Business API approval take?
Connecting takes about 10 minutes if your Meta account and number are ready. Meta's reviews, such as business verification or display name, can take longer and depend on Meta.
Meta changes its rules and prices from time to time. Always check Meta's official documentation for the latest details.