Before you begin
Make sure you have the following ready:- A Facebook account (personal or business) — you’ll need it to authenticate.
- The phone number you want to use for WhatsApp Business. It can be an existing number or a new one. If you’re already using it with the WhatsApp or WhatsApp Business app, the flow will ask for confirmation to migrate it.
- Access to the number to receive a verification code via SMS or call.
- Your business name as you want it to appear on WhatsApp when you message your customers.
Step by step
Log in with Facebook
A new Meta/Facebook window will open.
- If you’re already logged in, click “Continue as [your name]”.
- Otherwise, enter your Facebook email and password.

Use the Facebook account linked to your business. If you don’t have one, you can use your personal account — you’ll be able to create a new business portfolio later.
Accept permissions
You’ll see a screen showing the permissions the platform will receive. These generally include:
- Managing your WhatsApp Business account.
- Sending and receiving messages on your behalf.
Select or create your Business Portfolio
You have two options:
Click “Continue”.
- Select an existing one: If you already have a business portfolio in Meta (for example, because you manage Facebook/Instagram ads), select it from the list.
- Create a new one: If this is your first time, fill in your business details: company name, address, website, etc.

Select or create your WhatsApp Business Account
- Select an existing one: If you already have a WhatsApp Business account linked to your portfolio, choose it.
- Create a new one: Enter the name that will identify this account (usually your company name).
Add your phone number
- Select the country code (e.g., +1 for the US).
- Enter your full phone number.
- Enter the Display Name — this is the name your customers will see when you message them. For example: “Zizou Mates”, “Blanco Store”, etc.
Verify your number
Meta will send you a 6-digit verification code to confirm that you own the number.You can choose to receive it via:
- SMS (text message)
- Voice call
If you choose SMS and it doesn’t arrive within 1-2 minutes, try the voice call option.
What happens next?
- Meta reviews your business to confirm it complies with WhatsApp policies. If there’s an issue, they’ll contact you within 24 hours.
- Your number is active and ready to send and receive messages through the platform.
- You can access WhatsApp Manager at business.facebook.com to view your account, set up your business profile (logo, description, hours, etc.), and manage message templates.
Frequently asked questions
Can I use a number that already has personal WhatsApp?
Can I use a number that already has personal WhatsApp?
Yes, but once connected to the platform, that number will stop working on the WhatsApp mobile app. All chats are managed through the platform.
Can I use a landline number?
Can I use a landline number?
Yes. During the verification step, choose the “voice call” option to receive the code.
What if I make a mistake with the display name?
What if I make a mistake with the display name?
You can change it later from WhatsApp Manager, but each change requires a new approval from Meta, so it’s better to choose carefully from the start.
Do I need a Facebook account for this?
Do I need a Facebook account for this?
Yes. It’s a Meta requirement to authenticate your identity and link WhatsApp assets to a business portfolio.
Can I connect more than one number?
Can I connect more than one number?
Yes, you can have multiple numbers within the same WhatsApp Business account. Each number is connected individually by repeating this same process.
How long does the process take?
How long does the process take?
Usually between 3 and 5 minutes if you have everything ready.
Is there a cost to connect the number?
Is there a cost to connect the number?
Connecting the number is free. Costs are generated afterwards from conversations (messages sent/received), according to Meta’s per-conversation pricing model.


