> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://docs.quickreply.ai/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://docs.quickreply.ai/overview/messaging-channels/whatsapp/setup-whatsapp/prerequisites-and-setup.md).

# backup

## PREREQUISITES

Before setting up WhatsApp Business API, ensure you meet the following requirements:

### **Meta Business Manager Verification**

* Your business must have a **Meta Business Manager account**.
* Verification is mandatory to gain access to the **WhatsApp Business API**.
* To verify and submit **business registration documents** in Meta Business Manager.

### **Phone Number Requirements**

* The number used for the WhatsApp API **must not be linked to an existing WhatsApp account**.
* The number must support receiving **SMS or voice verification codes**.
* It cannot be used in the regular **WhatsApp or WhatsApp Business App**.

### **Compliance with WhatsApp’s Policies**

* Ensure that your business adheres to **WhatsApp Commerce & Messaging Policies**.
* Certain industries, such as **cryptocurrency and adult content**, are restricted.

### Installation Criteria and Rules

To install WhatsApp, you must use a valid phone number that you have access to during the setup process.

#### Key Requirements:

* **Number Ownership:** The phone number must be legally under your control—either owned by your business or authorized for business use.
* **Number Format:** The number must follow the international format, including the country and area codes. For example, a U.S. number with area code "408" and number "555-1212" should be entered as "+1-408-555-1212".
* **Number Availability:** If the number is from another provider or isn't listed in the BSP-provided numbers, it must be able to receive calls or SMS messages for verification.
* **Number Cleanliness:** The number should not be currently used on any WhatsApp account (personal, Business App). If it were, you must delete the existing WhatsApp account before registering for it.

#### Supported Number Types:

* **Landline numbers** – Fixed-line numbers are commonly used by businesses.
* **Mobile numbers** – Standard mobile numbers capable of receiving SMS messages.
* **Virtual Mobile Numbers (VMNs)** – Voice-capable numbers without a physical SIM card, purchasable from providers like MessageBird. Verification codes are sent via voice call.

#### **Not Supported:**

* Shortcodes
* Numbers with IVR (automated call menu), unless IVR can be disabled for verification.

## SETUP PROCESS

### **Register and Verify Your Business in Meta Business Manager**

* Log in to [Meta Business Manager](https://business.facebook.com/).
* Go to **Business Settings > Security Center**.
* Submit **business details and required documentation** for verification.

### **Create a WhatsApp Business Account (WABA)**

* Go to [Settings](https://app.quickreply.ai/v2/settings/channels/whatsapp)
* Click **Connect to WhatsApp Business** to open a separate window.
* Log in with a Facebook account linked to Meta Business Manager.
* Select a verified [Business Manager](https://intelliticks-sales.gitbook.io/quickreply.ai-docs/overview/publish-your-docs-1/whatsapp/concepts#meta-business-verification).
* Create a new WhatsApp Business Account (WABA).
* Set up your WhatsApp Business profile. The information provided will be visible to WhatsApp users.
* Add and verify the number you plan to use with the WhatsApp Business API.
* Allow 3-5 minutes for your account to be created.

### **Activate** Marketing Message Lite API (MM Lite API)

Follow these steps to enable MM Lite API for your account for all outbound marketing templates messages

[Navigate to new settings](https://app.quickreply.ai/v3/settings) and select Channels > WhatsApp

#### 1. Eligibility Check

QuickReply will automatically check if your WhatsApp Business Account (WABA) meets Meta’s requirements.

**Requirements:**

* WABA is active and not restricted.
* WABA is not a **WhatsApp Business App account**.
* WABA is not an **On-Behalf-Of (OBO)** account.
* Business country and WABA tax country are not in **sanctioned regions**.
* A valid **payment method** is set up.

If ineligible, QuickReply will display the exact reason (e.g., inactive account, unsupported country, OBO setup).

#### 2. Onboarding

If eligible, you can request onboarding to MM Lite:

1. Accept Meta’s **Terms of Service** (ToS) via the provided [link](https://business.facebook.com/latest/settings/bm_requests).
2. QuickReply will update your status to **Waiting for ToS acceptance**.
3. Once accepted, you’ll see the option to **Activate** MM Lite API.

#### 3. Activation

When activated:

* **All outbound marketing messages** (from Broadcasts, Campaigns, Journeys, Conversations, and Send Template API) will go through the MM Lite API.
* **Utility, service, and authentication messages** still use the Cloud API.

#### 4. Deactivation

If you wish to stop using the MM Lite API

* Submit a request to QuickReply Support, and our team will disable MM Lite from the Admin panel.
* You can later **reactivate** it from **QuickReply Settings → Channel → WhatsApp**.