What do I need before I connect WhatsApp?
Updated 12 October 2026
The Short Answer
A Facebook account you can sign in to, your phone, and about ten minutes. For the number already in your WhatsApp Business app, it must not be on Meta Business Suite's inbox, or Meta lists it as Ineligible (not eligible to register). A new number must have no WhatsApp on it and be able to receive Meta's code.
What you need depends on which number you are connecting, so check the half that is yours.
What do I actually need?
For either option:
- A Facebook account you can sign in to. Meta runs the sign-in.
- Your phone, in your hand.
- About ten minutes, uninterrupted.
Then, for the number already in your WhatsApp Business app:
- WhatsApp Business on your phone, with that number — you scan Meta's QR code with it.
- The number not connected to Meta Business Suite's inbox. If it is, disconnect it first: WhatsApp Business → Settings → Account → Business Platform.
Or, for a different number, with no WhatsApp on it: a number you control that can receive the code Meta texts it.
Can I use the number my clients already have?
Yes. Pick The number already in your WhatsApp Business app when PropKaki asks which number you are connecting. Clients keep messaging the number they already have, and you keep using WhatsApp on your phone as normal.
Don't pick A different number, with no WhatsApp on it for a number that has WhatsApp — it is refused there. Can I still use WhatsApp on my phone? covers what changes once it's connected.
What if my number shows Ineligible, or not eligible to register?
Disconnect it first, in the app on your phone: WhatsApp Business → Settings → Account → Business Platform.
A WhatsApp Business app number can be on one business platform at a time. If it's still on Meta Business Suite's inbox, Meta's number list marks it Ineligible and will not connect it. This is the one setting most likely to stop a first attempt, so check it before you start.
How long does it take?
About ten minutes with everything in place. Do it somewhere you won't be interrupted, with your phone in hand: you scan a QR code with WhatsApp Business, or receive the code Meta texts to a new number.
If you're connecting the number in your WhatsApp Business app, your phone also asks whether to share your chat history. Say yes — it brings your past conversations into your Inbox, and can't be done later.
Do I need to be verified first?
Yes. Connecting your own number is for licensed agents — add your CEA licence to switch it on. If it isn't on your account yet, the WhatsApp card says so and shows Get Verified, which takes you there.