Summary
This guide explains how to connect your WhatsApp Business number to Wati using the Embedded Signup process. It also helps you understand the difference between the two available onboarding methods - Embedded Signup and WhatsApp coexistence - so you can choose the approach that fits your business needs. Once you're ready, follow the step-by-step instructions to complete the connection smoothly.
After upgrading to a paid Wati account, you can connect your WhatsApp Business number to Wati and start communicating with your customers directly from your Wati dashboard.
Understanding the difference between Embedded signup and WhatsApp coexistence
There are two ways to connect your WhatsApp Business number to Wati:
Method 1: Embedded signup process
Embedded signup is a guided onboarding flow that lets you create and configure your WhatsApp Business API account directly inside Wati. Everything - from Meta Business verification to phone number registration - happens in one place, without switching tabs or performing manual setup.
This option is ideal for mid-sized businesses and teams that want a fast, seamless setup without managing complex technical steps or coordinating with multiple vendors.
Method 2: WhatsApp coexistence process
WhatsApp coexistence lets you use both the WhatsApp Business App and the WhatsApp Business API using the same phone number. You can continue handling manual chats on the app while running automated campaigns through Wati. Both stay synced, and you don’t need separate numbers or data migration.
This option is ideal for startups and small businesses that want to keep using the WhatsApp Business App while also sending automated API messages.
To learn how to connect your WhatsApp number through coexistence, see our guide on onboarding to Wati via coexistence.
Instructions
Prerequisites:
A Wati account with an active subscription
Admin access to your Meta Business Manager
A valid phone number that's not already linked to an active WhatsApp account
Number should be able to receive OTP via SMS or phone call for verification from WhatsApp
If you prefer a step-by-step visual walkthrough, watch our video guide to learn how to connect your number to Wati using the Embedded Signup process.
For our users who prefer text, follow the step by step guide:
Step 1: Log in and start the connection
Log into your Wati account.
A popup will appear asking you to connect your WhatsApp number.
Choose the first option to connect you number via Embedded Signup process.
Select Connect to continue.
Before you proceed:
Make sure you have your Meta Business Manager credentials handy. You must have admin access.
Keep another browser tab open where you are already logged into the correct Meta Business Manager.
This helps avoid switching accounts during the Embedded Signup flow, which can interrupt the process.
Step 2: Enter your WhatsApp details
Add the WhatsApp number you want to connect to Wati.
You can also use Meta’s free number, but this guide focuses on connecting your own business number.
Choose your WhatsApp Business Display Name.
Ensure it follows Meta’s naming guidelines.
Add your business website URL.
If you don’t have a website, disable the I have an official website URL checkbox.
Note that skipping a website may require additional verification later.
Select your business category.
Click Next step to continue.
Step 3: Continue with your Facebook account
Select Continue with Facebook.
A Facebook login popup will appear. Since you already logged into Meta Business Manager in another tab, the popup should show the correct account. However it is always good to check and ensure you are logged into the right account.
Click Continue to proceed.
Step 4: Accept the Lite API terms
A popup will show what you will be able to do after the signup process is completed.
Review the details and click Continue.
Step 5: Provide your business information
Business Name: You see the name pulled from the first step when you entered your business details such as phone number, display name etc.
Category: Select the category that best describes your business.
Country: Select your country.
Website (optional): If you don’t have a website, you can skip this step.
If you skip, you may be required to submit documents for verification later.
Timezone: Select your timezone.
Click Next to continue.
Step 6: Create a new WhatsApp Business Account
Create a new WhatsApp Business Account (WABA).
Create a new WhatsApp Business profile.
Add or update your:
WhatsApp Business account name
WhatsApp Business display name (ensure to follow the display name guidelines)
Choose the best category for your business.
Important: Always create a new WABA and new profile when connecting to Wati for the first time.
Click Next.
This step may take a few moments while Meta creates your new WABA.
Step 7: Add and verify your WhatsApp phone number
You’ll see two options:
Use a display name only
Add a new number
Select Add a new number and enter your WhatsApp business number.
Choose how you want to verify the number:
Text message
Phone call
Enter the verification code to complete the verification.
Note: Do not click Resend code too many times in a short period, as Meta limits how often you can request a code.
If you see an error saying you’ve requested the code too many times, try switching the verification methods - for example, if you were using SMS, try using the call option, or vice versa. Alternatively, you can also wait 1–2 hours before trying again.
Step 8: Review Wati’s access request
Review the access permissions that Wati.io will receive.
Click Confirm to approve.
You will see a loading screen that says "Connecting your account". This may take a few moments.
Step 9: Finish the connection
Select Finish to complete the setup.
You’re all set! Your WhatsApp number is now connected to Wati through the Embedded Signup flow.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
General Questions
1. Can I connect multiple WhatsApp numbers to Wati?
Yes. You can connect multiple numbers to a single Wati account, but this requires the Business plan.
2. Do I need a WhatsApp Business account (WABA) to use Wati?
Yes. Wati works only with WhatsApp Business accounts. It’s recommended to create a new WhatsApp Business (WABA) account during setup.
3. Can I use a landline number with Wati?
Yes. You can use a landline number, but you must select the Call option for verification instead of SMS. If the number is behind an IVR system, you may need to disable the IVR temporarily.
4. Can I use a virtual number with Wati?
Yes. If the virtual number can receive a verification code via SMS or voice call, you can use it.
5. I accidentally connected the wrong number. Can I change it?
Yes. You can change your connected number at any time. Follow our guide on how to update the connected phone number to know more.
6. Can I switch my WhatsApp number to a different Wati account later?
No. Once a WhatsApp number is linked to a Wati account, it cannot be transferred to another account.
7. How to reconnect your phone number to Wati
If your number gets disconnected, you’ll need to complete the embedded sign-up process again to connect your number.