Client Onboarding for WhatsApp Business API (WABA)

To successfully onboard a client on the WhatsApp Business API (WABA), access to the client’s Meta (Facebook) Business Manager is a mandatory requirement.
Since the client is not setting up or managing the API themselves, our team handles the complete configuration, verification, and integration process. For this reason, appropriate access must be granted to ensure a smooth and compliant setup.

Why Business Manager Access Is Required

Access to the client’s Business Manager enables us to perform all essential actions required for WhatsApp API onboarding and long-term management.

1. WhatsApp Business Account (WABA) Management

We require access to the client’s WhatsApp Business Account to:

  • Configure account settings

  • Manage business profile details

  • Monitor account status and compliance

Without this access, it is not possible to properly link or manage the WABA.



2. Phone Number Registration & Verification

WhatsApp Business API requires phone numbers to be verified and registered under the client’s Business Manager.

With admin-level access, we can:

  • Add and verify phone numbers

  • Complete OTP-based verification

  • Assign numbers to the correct WABA

This step is critical for enabling message sending and receiving.



3. Message Template Creation & Management

WhatsApp requires all outbound messages (outside the 24-hour window) to use approved templates.

Business Manager access allows us to:

  • Create and submit message templates

  • Manage Utility, Marketing, and Authentication templates

  • Handle template rejections and resubmissions

This ensures the client can communicate with users efficiently and in compliance with Meta policies.



4. API Integration & App Linking

To connect WhatsApp with our platform or application, we must link the client’s WABA to our system.

This access allows us to:

  • Connect the WABA to our app or solution

  • Configure webhooks and API credentials

  • Ensure stable message delivery and system integration



Required Type of Access

To proceed with onboarding, the client must grant Partner Access through their Meta Business Manager.

Access Requirements:
  • Partner access must be provided to our Business Manager

  • Permission level must include:

    • Manage WhatsApp Business Account (WABA)

    • or Admin-level access

This level of access allows us to perform all required setup and ongoing management tasks securely and efficiently.



Security & Data Protection

Partner access does not give ownership of the Business Manager or WhatsApp account.
The client remains the full owner of all assets, while we are granted limited permissions strictly for setup, integration, and management purposes.



Conclusion

As the client is not directly handling the WhatsApp Business API setup, granting partner access to their Meta Business Manager is essential. This access enables proper configuration, phone number verification, template approval, and API integration—ensuring a seamless onboarding experience and uninterrupted WhatsApp communication.