The phone number you choose for WhatsApp Business API is permanent — once it's banned or deactivated, you lose everything built on it. This guide covers which numbers work, which to avoid, how to register, and what to do if you need to change numbers.
| Number type | Can use for API? | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Mobile number (not currently on WhatsApp) | ✅ Best option | Clean start. Use a new SIM not registered on any WhatsApp account. |
| Mobile number (currently on WhatsApp or WA Business App) | ✅ Yes — with migration | Must delete existing WhatsApp account first. 30-day data retention period applies. |
| Landline / fixed number | ✅ Yes | OTP sent via voice call (press 1 for verification). Works for toll-free 1800 numbers. |
| VoIP number (Jio, Airtel IQ, Exotel) | ✅ Yes (most) | Verify with your provider — not all VoIP numbers receive SMS OTP. Voice OTP may be needed. |
| Number already on WhatsApp API with another BSP | ✅ Yes — via WABA migration | Transfer WABA to WA.Expert. Number doesn't need re-verification. |
| Number previously banned from WhatsApp | ❌ No | Banned numbers cannot be re-registered on any WhatsApp account or API. |
💡 Recommended for Indian businesses: Get a dedicated Airtel or Jio mobile number (not ported). Don't use your personal number — once on API, it can't run the regular WhatsApp app simultaneously. Keep your personal number separate.
Create or log in to business.facebook.com. Complete your business profile. Complete Meta Business Verification (upload GST certificate, PAN card, or incorporation certificate — any government-issued business document).
WA.Expert dashboard → Settings → Phone Numbers → Add Number. Enter the number you want to use. This initiates the verification process with Meta.
Meta sends a 6-digit OTP via SMS (mobile numbers) or voice call (landlines/VoIP). Enter in WA.Expert. OTP expires in 10 minutes — have the number ready to receive calls/SMS.
Set your business display name — what customers see in WhatsApp. Must match your business name on Meta Business Manager. Approval takes 2–7 business days for first-time setup.
Your number is now on WhatsApp API. Submit your first templates for approval, set up your chatbot, and start with small sends (200–500/day) to warm up the number before scaling.
WA.Expert's onboarding team handles number verification and setup. Typically live within 24 hours.