Register a new WhatsApp API number

This is how you bring a brand-new phone number onto the WhatsApp Business API. The number must not already be active on the regular WhatsApp or WhatsApp Business app, and it needs to be able to receive a call or SMS for the one-time verification.

Before you start

Use a number that is not on WhatsApp. If it is, delete that WhatsApp account first and wait two hours before registering it here. Keep the phone handy for the OTP.

Add the channel

Click Add New Channel and select your WABA currency.

Click Connect and log in with Facebook.

Choose to create a new business portfolio and Meta business account, or select an existing one. Always opt to create a new WhatsApp account.

Enter your WhatsApp account name (your brand or legal business name) and pick a category.

Enter the phone number and verify the OTP, received by phone call or text.

Click Continue, then Finish. Wait for the popup to close on its own.

Your channel appears. Click Connect, name the channel, pick a colour, and click Create Channel. The status shows Pending.

Set two-factor authentication

A six-digit PIN secures the number against unauthorised migration. You must set it for the number to finish connecting.

Go to Channels and click the WhatsApp icon.

Click Two-Factor Authentication.

Enter a six-digit PIN and click Register PIN. Keep this PIN safe.

Refresh the page. The number should now show as connected.

Stuck on Pending?

If the status stays Pending, set the 2FA PIN and refresh. Almost every Pending case is a missing PIN. See the Troubleshooting section if it persists.

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Register a new WhatsApp API number

Add the channel

Set two-factor authentication

Register a co-existing WhatsApp number

Migrate an existing API number to WA.Expert

Change your WhatsApp display name

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