Summary
When setting up your account, it's important to choose the right phone number to ensure a smooth verification process. This guide will walk you through the requirements and eligibility criteria for selecting a phone number.
Instructions
What Makes a Phone Number Eligible?
To be eligible, your phone number must meet the following criteria:
Valid Phone Number: Use a valid phone number that includes your country and area code.
Receive Calls or SMS: The number must be able to receive calls or SMS for account verification.
Unique to WATI: The phone number must not be associated with any other WhatsApp application (including WhatsApp Personal or Business).
Types of Eligible Phone Numbers
Here are the types of phone numbers you can use for verification:
1. Landlines
Landline numbers are eligible as long as they can receive voice OTPs (one-time passwords).
Ensure you have access to the phone to receive the verification call.
2. Cell Phones
Cell phone numbers are acceptable, but they must not have been used for WhatsApp in the last 6 months.
If you've used the number on WhatsApp before, make sure it's been inactive for at least 6 months.
3. 1-800 or Toll-Free Numbers
Toll-free numbers are eligible only if they can directly receive SMS or voice calls.
Numbers behind an Interactive Voice Response (IVR) system are not supported, as they cannot receive OTPs directly.
Important Notes
Don't Use Numbers Associated with Other WhatsApp Accounts
The phone number you use for WATI must not be linked to any other WhatsApp application (e.g., WhatsApp Personal or Business).
If your number is already in use elsewhere, delete the existing account before signing up for WATI.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
General Eligibility
What makes a phone number eligible for WATI? A phone number is eligible if it is valid, can receive calls or SMS for verification, and is not associated with any other WhatsApp application (including WhatsApp Personal or Business).
Can I use a phone number that is currently linked to a WhatsApp account? No, the number must not be associated with any existing WhatsApp account. You must delete the existing WhatsApp account before registering it with WATI.
Supported Phone Number Types
Can I use a landline number for WATI? Yes, you can use a landline number as long as it can receive a voice OTP (one-time password) for verification.
Are mobile phone numbers eligible? Yes, mobile phone numbers are eligible, but they must not have been used for WhatsApp in the past six months. If the number was previously registered with WhatsApp, it must remain inactive for at least six months before use with WATI.
Can I use a toll-free (1-800) number? Yes, toll-free numbers are eligible, but only if they can receive SMS or voice calls directly. Toll-free numbers behind an Interactive Voice Response (IVR) system are not supported.
Troubleshooting & Additional Information
What should I do if my number is already linked to WhatsApp? If your phone number is currently associated with a WhatsApp account, you need to delete the existing account before registering it with WATI. Refer to our guide: How to use a phone number registered with a WhatsApp account before?
What happens if I try to register an ineligible number? If your phone number does not meet the eligibility criteria, you may not be able to complete the verification process for WATI. Ensure your number is valid, can receive OTPs, and is not linked to another WhatsApp account.
Can I use a virtual or VoIP number? No, virtual or VoIP numbers are generally not supported, as they may not reliably receive OTPs for verification.