Unlock the Power of WhatsApp Cloud API for Business Automation

Unlock the Power of WhatsApp Cloud API for Business Automation

Table of Contents

1. Introduction
2. Prerequisites for Access to WhatsApp Cloud API
   • Business Manager Account
   • Meta Business Manager Account Verification
   • Meta Developer Account
   • Meta App
3. Creating a Meta Business Manager Account
4. Creating a Meta Developer Account
5. Creating a Meta App
6. Verifying Your Meta Business Account
7. Submitting the Business Verification Application
8. Approval Process and Waiting Period
9. Meta Business Account Verification
10. Accessing WhatsApp Cloud API
    • Adding a Phone Number
    • Adding a WhatsApp Display Name
    • Validating the Display Name
11. Conclusion

Introduction

In this comprehensive guide, we will explore the process of accessing WhatsApp Cloud API, a powerful platform for WhatsApp marketing and automation. We will walk through the various steps required, from setting up the necessary accounts to obtaining access to the API. By following this guide, you will be equipped with the knowledge and tools to effectively utilize WhatsApp Cloud API for your business needs.

Prerequisites for Access to WhatsApp Cloud API

Before diving into the process of accessing WhatsApp Cloud API, there are a few prerequisites that need to be fulfilled. These prerequisites include having a Business Manager account, verifying your Meta Business Manager account, creating a Meta Developer account, and having a Meta app.

1. Business Manager Account

To proceed with obtaining access to WhatsApp Cloud API, it is essential to have a Business Manager account. This account serves as the central hub for managing all your business's assets on Facebook. If you already have a Business Manager account, you can skip this step. Otherwise, we will guide you through the process of creating one.

2. Meta Business Manager Account Verification

To access WhatsApp Cloud API, your Meta Business Manager account must be verified. Verification ensures the authenticity and legitimacy of your business. We will walk you through the step-by-step process of verifying your Meta Business Manager account.

3. Meta Developer Account

A Meta Developer account is necessary for accessing WhatsApp Cloud API. In this section, we will guide you through the process of creating a Meta Developer account, providing you with the necessary credentials to proceed further.

4. Meta App

Before gaining access to WhatsApp Cloud API, you need to have a Meta app. We will explain how to create a Meta app and obtain the required credentials.

Creating a Meta Business Manager Account

To create a Meta Business Manager account, follow these steps:

1. Open business.facebook.com in your web browser.
2. If you already have a Facebook account, click on "Login with Facebook." Otherwise, create a new Facebook account.
3. Once logged in, click on "Go to Meta Business Suite" in the top left corner.
4. Check if your business name appears under the "Business Account" section. If it does, you already have a Business Manager account. Otherwise, create a new one by clicking on "Create a Business Account" at the bottom of the drop-down menu.
5. Enter your business name and click on "Create."
6. You can skip the setup process and click on "Skip" if prompted.
7. Click on "Confirm" to confirm the creation of your Meta Business Manager account.

Creating a Meta Developer Account

To create a Meta Developer account, follow these steps:

1. Open developers.facebook.com in a new tab.
2. Click on "Get Started" in the top right corner of the menu bar.
3. Select "Continue" and then choose "Owner/Founder."
4. Click on "Complete Registration" to proceed.

Creating a Meta App

To create a Meta app, follow these steps:

1. Click on "Create App" in the Meta Developer Dashboard.
2. Select "Business" when prompted.
3. Provide a name for your app, preferably the first name of your company.
4. Enter an official email address for the app.
5. Select the business manager you created earlier from the drop-down menu.
6. Click on "Create App" and enter your password to confirm.

Verifying Your Meta Business Account

To verify your Meta Business Manager account, follow these steps:

1. Scroll down the page until you see the WhatsApp card and click on "Setup."
2. Click on "Continue" and follow the on-screen instructions.

Submitting the Business Verification Application

To submit your business verification application, follow these steps:

1. Go to the Business Settings page by clicking on the gear icon next to your Meta Business Manager account name.
2. Scroll down to the bottom and click on the "Security Center" tab.
3. Click on "Start Verification" followed by "Get Started."
4. Select the country where your business is located.
5. Re-enter your organization's details as requested.
6. Choose the option for email verification and click on "Next."
7. Upload the required documents, such as the business registration certificate and address proof.
8. Enter your official email address and click on "Send Email."
9. Check your email for a confirmation code and enter it when prompted.

Approval Process and Waiting Period

Upon submitting your business verification application, it will undergo a review process. This process can take anywhere from 2 to 48 hours. You will receive a notification and email regarding the status of your verification. If your business is not verified, you may need to repeat the process.

Meta Business Account Verification

After 36 hours, your Meta Business Manager account will be verified. This verification allows for higher message sending limits and the ability to apply for official business account status.

Accessing WhatsApp Cloud API

To gain access to WhatsApp Cloud API, follow these steps:

1. Open developers.facebook.com in a new tab.
2. Go to "My Apps" and select the app you created.
3. Scroll down on the left side of the menu and click on "WhatsApp," followed by "Getting Started."
4. Scroll to the bottom and click on "Add Phone Number."
5. Ensure that the phone number you add is not linked to any other WhatsApp application.
6. Provide a WhatsApp display name, following the guidelines provided.
7. Select the time zone and choose a category.
8. Click on "Next" to proceed.
9. Enter the phone number you wish to connect to WhatsApp Cloud API and choose a verification method.
10. Enter the verification code you receive and proceed.

Conclusion

Congratulations! You have successfully gained access to WhatsApp Cloud API. Your Meta Business Manager account is now connected to your easy Social account, paving the way for seamless WhatsApp marketing and automation. Stay tuned for more tutorials on maximizing the potential of WhatsApp Cloud API.

Highlights:

• Learn how to access WhatsApp Cloud API
• Fulfill prerequisites for API access
• Create Meta Business Manager and Meta Developer accounts
• Verify your Meta Business Manager account
• Submit the business verification application
• Gain access to WhatsApp Cloud API
• Connect your Meta Business Manager account to easy Social

FAQ

Q: How long does the approval process for business verification take? A: The approval process for business verification can take anywhere between 2 to 48 hours.

Q: Can I use a Gmail or Yahoo email address for business verification? A: No, you need to use a domain-related business email for verification purposes.

Q: Is it necessary to delete my phone number from the existing WhatsApp app before using WhatsApp Cloud API? A: Yes, it is recommended to delete your phone number from any existing WhatsApp app to ensure a seamless transition to WhatsApp Cloud API.

Q: What is the significance of verifying your Meta Business Manager account? A: Verifying your Meta Business Manager account allows for higher message sending limits and the ability to apply for official business account status.