Trisha Hi Everyone, Trisha this side. I have a query Can I use the same number that I had on WhatsApp before for the API?
snapshot Hello Trisha, Yes, But there's just one important step before you do that… If your number is currently active on WhatsApp or WhatsApp Business App, you’ll need to delete the account from the app first. That’s because the same number can’t be used in both places at the same time.
snapshot Here's how to do it step by step: Open your WhatsApp Business App Tap on the three dots (⋮) in the top-right corner Go to Settings > Account Tap on Delete my account Enter the same phone number you're planning to use with the API Confirm the deletion Once done, the number will be free to connect with the WhatsApp Business API.
waexpert Hi Trisha, Yes, you can! But since that number is already active on regular WhatsApp or WhatsApp Business, it first needs to be disconnected from the app. You actually have two options: Delete your WhatsApp account (if you’re no longer using that number in the app) Or, a safer option you can use the “Change Number” feature inside WhatsApp to move your account to a new number.
waexpert Here’s how to do it: Open WhatsApp or WhatsApp Business App Go to Settings > Account > Change Number Enter your current number (the one you want to use for API) Enter your new number (any other number you want to move to) Once done, your original number will be free and you can start setting it up with the WhatsApp Business API
waexpert Here’s what we’ll need to move ahead: The number you just freed up (it shouldn’t be active on WhatsApp anymore) Your business documents — like GST or PAN A utility bill or bank statement with your business name on it (for address proof) A website just make sure it clearly shows your business name and contact details Your Facebook Business Manager ID. Once you’ve got everything ready, we can move on to the next steps.
snapshot Since you have everything ready, let’s move to the next step setting up your WhatsApp Business Account (WABA). Here’s what to do now: Login to your Facebook Business Manager. On the left menu, go to: Business Settings > Accounts > WhatsApp Accounts Click “Add” to start creating your WhatsApp Business Account. Fill in the details: Your Business Display Name (what customers will see) Choose your Business Category Add the phone number you freed up earlier You’ll receive an OTP (verification code) on that number — enter it to verify.
newdata Now let’s move to the Business Verification part. This is where you submit your documents to Meta to get fully approved. Here’s what to do next: Go to Business Settings > Security Center in your Facebook Business Manager. Click on Start Verification. Fill out your business details (same as your GST or PAN). Upload your GST certificate or PAN, and your address proof (like a bank statement or utility bill). Submit the info and wait — Meta usually reviews it within 3–5 business days. Once approved, your WhatsApp Business API account will be fully ready to go!
newdata Perfect, Trisha! That means Meta has received your documents and your review is in progress. For now, there’s nothing more you need to do. Just keep an eye on: Usually, it takes 3–5 business days, but sometimes it’s faster.
