Prerequisites
A Business Facebook account to manage the business assets.
A business phone number that is NOT currently linked to a standard WhatsApp or WhatsApp Business App. (If the account is already linked, you will need to delete the existing account before reusing the same contact number for integration. Please remove the WhatsApp account associated with this number by navigating to WhatsApp > Settings > Delete Account on your mobile device..
Business details including the business's legal name, website, and address (must match your GST/business registration).
Create a Meta Developer account
Go to the Meta for Developers portal.
Log in with your Facebook credentials.
Click Get Started or My Apps and complete the developer registration.
4. Go to Settings → Security and Login in Facebook and enable Two-Factor Authentication (2FA). This step is mandatory, as Meta may restrict or block API access if 2FA is not enabled.
Under Two-factor authentication, locate the "Use two-factor authentication" option and click Edit.
Under Select a security method, set up your preferred two-factor authentication method.
Create a Meta Business app
From the Developer Dashboard, click Create App.
2. Enter your App name (e.g., GoFrugal_Connect) and select your Meta Business Portfolio (Business Manager). If you don't have one, Meta will prompt you to create it here. Click Create app.
3. Under App customization and requirements, choose Customize the Connect with customers through WhatsApp use case.
4. Select Connect with customers through WhatsApp and click Next.
5. Select the business portfolio you want to integrate with WhatsApp and click Next.
6. Click on Create app.
FAQ
Can we use an existing WhatsApp number for API integration?
No. The number must not be linked to any existing WhatsApp or WhatsApp Business App. If it is, you must delete that account first.
Is it mandatory to have a business website?
Yes. An active website with business details, a privacy policy, and terms and conditions is required for verification.
Why is two-factor authentication (2FA) required?
Meta mandates 2FA for security purposes. Without enabling it, you won’t be able to access or use the API.
Can we create multiple apps under one business account?
Yes. You can create multiple apps, but each integration should be properly configured.