How to Get Started with WhatsApp Business API in 2025

WhatsApp has become one of the most valuable communication channels for modern businesses. With over2.5 billion active users across 180+ countries, it is where conversations already happen - privately, instantly, and securely.

As mobile messaging continues to grow in importance, companies that embrace WhatsApp Business API can provide real-time, secure, and personalized conversations at scale. Whether it is customer service, transactional updates, or marketing automation - this platform offers endless opportunities for smart communication.

In this guide, we will walk you through what WhatsApp Business API is, who it is for, and how to get started.

What Is WhatsApp Business API?

WhatsApp offers three key formats:

• WhatsApp (standard app) - for personal use

• WhatsApp Business App - for small businesses

• WhatsApp Business Platform (API) - for mid-sized and enterprise organizations

The WhatsApp Business API enables automated, scalable, and GDPR-compliant messaging through verified business accounts. It supports proactive notifications, two-way conversations, and rich media features such as images, PDFs, and location sharing.

Who Should Use WhatsApp Business API?

The API is designed for mid-sized and large businesses looking to:

• Automate support and notifications

• Deliver time-sensitive messages (e.g. order confirmations, alerts, or appointment reminders)

• Scale customer service with chatbots or live agents

• Engage customers using opt-in marketing campaigns

If you are a small business, the WhatsApp Business App might be a better starting point. For everyone else, you will need to apply for access via an official WhatsApp Business Solution Provider (BSP) like LINK Mobility.

Step-by-Step: How to Get Started

1. Choose a WhatsApp Business Solution Provider

BSPs handle the technical setup, hosting, and integration of the WhatsApp Business API. LINK Mobility is a trusted BSP that supports everything from onboarding to message template approvals and ongoing support.

Why work with a BSP?

• Faster time to market

• Hosted infrastructure

• Compliance and template guidance

• Access to additional tools like automation, analytics, and opt-in management

2. Submit Business Information

Next, you will provide key details for verification and approval:

• Business name and website

• Industry and geographic regions

• Intended use cases (e.g., notifications, customer support, promotions)

• Facebook Business Manager ID

• Message volume estimates and go-live date

Approval typically takes 5 to 10 business days, depending on WhatsApp's review process.

3. Activate Your Business Phone Number

Once approved, you will need to:

• Choose and register a dedicated phone number

• Connect it to your BSP’s platform

• Verify it through your Meta Business Manager

The number will be activated for API use and hosted virtually - this is not a SIM-based number anymore.

You can scale with multiple numbers or regions depending on your business needs.

4. Create and Submit Message Templates

To send proactive messages outside of the 24-hour customer service window, you need pre-approved message templates. These are known as HSMs (Highly Structured Messages).

Templates must be:

• Text-based (with optional emojis or variables like {{1}}, {{2}} for personalization)

• Non-promotional (e.g., order updates, shipping alerts, appointment confirmations)

• Value-driven and expected by the user

WhatsApp reviews all templates to ensure alignment with their policies.

You can also send non-templated messages if a user initiates a conversation.

5. Collect User Opt-In

To message users via WhatsApp Business API, you must obtain their consent.

This can be done through:

• Website forms or checkboxes

• SMS campaigns

• Email prompts

• QR codes in physical locations or ads

• “Click to WhatsApp” ads on social media

Your opt-in must:

• Clearly state your company name

• Explain what types of messages they are agreeing to receive

• Provide an easy opt-out path

Apply for the Verified Green Checkmark

Once active, your account can be upgraded to a Verified Business Account (green checkmark), if you are a well-known brand and meet WhatsApp's messaging thresholds.

Benefits include:

• Increased customer trust

• Improved message delivery

• Stronger brand visibility in chat headers

What You Can Do with WhatsApp Business API

Here are just a few real-world examples of how companies are using WhatsApp today:

• Retail
  Send abandoned cart reminders and flash sale alerts

• Logistics
  Notify customers of deliveries and delays in real time

• Travel
  Provide digital boarding passes, gate updates, and travel advisories

• Healthcare
  Share appointment reminders and secure lab results

• Finance
  Offer secure two-factor authentication and account alerts