WhatsApp welcome message examples

When someone messages you first, you do not need a template: a free-form reply or chatbot menu works for 24 hours. Templates are needed only when you message first, for example welcoming someone who opted in on your website or at the counter. This page has both.

When to send

First message from a new customer (chatbot reply, no template needed)
Outside business hours
After someone opts in on your website, QR code or store counter (template)

3 ready-to-copy templates

Variables like {{1}} are filled in for each customer when you send. Change the wording to fit your business, and give Meta a realistic example for every variable when you submit.

welcome_optin_new_subscriber

Marketing

Hi {{1}}, welcome to {{2}} on WhatsApp! You will get {{3}} here. Reply any time with a question, our team is happy to help.

See what's new

Stop promotions

{{1}}: Customer name (Tanya)
{{2}}: Business name (FitFuel Store)
{{3}}: What they will receive (order updates and member-only offers)

welcome_lead_followup

Marketing

Hi {{1}}, thanks for your interest in {{2}}. I'm {{3}} from the team. Would you like the details and price list on WhatsApp?

Yes, send details

Call me

Stop promotions

{{1}}: Lead name (Karan)
{{2}}: Product or project (2 BHK flats at Green Valley)
{{3}}: Agent name (Megha)

account_created_welcome

Utility

Hi {{1}}, your {{2}} account has been created with this number. You will receive updates about your orders and bookings here. Reply HELP for assistance.

{{1}}: Customer name (Tanya)
{{2}}: Business name (FitFuel Store)

Tips to get these approved

First-reply menu (no template): "Hi! 👋 Welcome to <business>. Reply 1 for prices, 2 for timings, 3 to talk to our team." Build it once in the auton8n flow builder or as a keyword bot.
After-hours reply: tell people when you will reply and offer the chatbot menu meanwhile, so the enquiry is not lost.
The opt-in welcome should say what people will receive and how to stop. That sets expectations and reduces blocks.

Frequently asked questions

Do I need an approved template for a welcome message?

Not when the customer messages first: you can reply freely within 24 hours. You need a template only to start the conversation yourself.

Can the welcome message show a menu?

Yes. Use quick reply buttons or a list message in a chatbot flow, so customers choose an option instead of typing.