How long does WhatsApp Business API approval take?

Typical timelines for business verification, number approval, and template reviews.

Approval timelines for the WhatsApp Business API vary by step: business verification, number display name review, and template approval. Here’s what to expect and how to speed it up.

Key takeaways

Business verification: usually minutes to a few days depending on documents.
Display name and number: often minutes to a few hours if branding matches.
Template approval: minutes to hours; quality templates reduce retries.

Typical timelines

Business verification: same-day if documents are clear; longer if mismatched.
Number verification: instant after SMS/voice code.
Display name review: minutes to a few hours.
Template approval: minutes to a few hours per template.

Factors that slow approvals

Mismatched display name vs. website/brand.
Blurry or inconsistent verification documents.
Templates with unclear or overly promotional wording without opt-in.

How to speed things up

Use a brand-aligned display name and domain.
Submit sharp, matching documents in Business Manager.
Add clear sample values in templates; avoid spammy language.
Keep opt-in evidence handy in case of provider checks.

FAQs

Can I operate while verification is pending?

You can start some limited messaging, but higher tiers and some capabilities require full business verification.

What if template approval is slow?

Resubmit with clearer wording and samples, or start with utility templates that are easier to approve.

Who do I contact for delays?

Reach out to your BSP/platform support; they can escalate and provide status from Meta.

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