How to Get the WhatsApp Business API in India (Step by Step)

The WhatsApp Business API (officially the WhatsApp Business Platform) lets a business send campaigns, run chatbots and answer customers as a team from one number. Meta does not offer an app for it: you use it through a platform such as auton8n. Here is the whole process, from zero to your first message.

What you need before you start

• A Facebook account for the person setting it up.
• A Meta business portfolio (Business Manager) for your company. You can create one during signup.
• A phone number that can receive an SMS or a voice call. It can be a mobile or a landline number.
• Your business website and business documents, which you will need later for business verification.

The number should not be active on the WhatsApp or WhatsApp Business app. If it is, delete that WhatsApp account from the phone first (Settings, Account, Delete account). Meta has started letting some Business App numbers connect to the API while keeping the app, called coexistence, but availability depends on Meta.

Step 1: Create an account on a WhatsApp API platform

Sign up on a platform built on Meta's official Cloud API. With auton8n you create an account, choose a plan and open the WhatsApp connection page.

Step 2: Connect your number through Meta's signup window

• Log in with Facebook in the window that opens, and pick or create your business portfolio.
• Create a WhatsApp Business Account and enter your business details.
• Add your phone number and verify it with the code Meta sends by SMS or voice call.
• Choose a display name. It must clearly relate to your business, for example your brand or company name.

This usually takes 10 to 15 minutes. After it, your number is connected and you can reply to customers who message you.

Step 3: Add a payment method for Meta's charges

Meta charges per template message, and the rate depends on the category (marketing, utility or authentication) and the customer's country. Replies you send within 24 hours of a customer's last message are not charged as template messages. Add a card or other payment method for your WhatsApp Business Account in Meta Business settings so your template messages are not blocked.

Step 4: Complete business verification

In your business portfolio's Security Center, start business verification. Meta checks that your legal business name, address and website match official documents, for example a GST certificate, Udyam registration, certificate of incorporation or a utility bill in the business name. Verification usually takes a few working days. It raises your messaging limits and is needed before you can apply for the blue verified badge.

Step 5: Create your first message templates

To start a conversation with a customer, or to message them more than 24 hours after their last message, you must use a template approved by Meta. Create templates for your first campaign and your order or booking updates. Our guide to message templates explains the categories and how to get them approved quickly.

Step 6: Import contacts who opted in and go live

Upload contacts who agreed to hear from you on WhatsApp, set up a welcome message or chatbot, and send your first campaign. Start with a small group, check delivery and replies, then grow.

How long does it take and what does it cost?

Connecting a number takes minutes. Business verification takes a few working days. Costs have two parts: your platform plan (see auton8n pricing) and Meta's per-message charges for template messages, billed by Meta.

Ready to try it? Create your auton8n account or talk to us.