Steps to get access to WhatsApp Business Features

Step 1: Get Access via Meta

📘 Official Docs: WhatsApp Cloud API Documentation

1. Go to Meta for Developers and log in.
2. Click Create App → Choose "Business" type → Fill details.
3. Add the WhatsApp product to your app.
4. Follow the setup wizard to create a WhatsApp Business Account (WABA).
5. Add a test number or register your own number for sending messages.

Step 2: Generate API Credentials

1. Navigate to Business Settings → Users → System Users.
2. Create a new System User and assign the WhatsApp API permissions.
3. Generate a permanent access token via the System User and App.
4. Store your:
   • Access Token
   • Phone Number ID
   • WABA ID

Step 3: Configure Webhook & Messaging

1. Go to App Dashboard → Webhooks.
2. Set up your Webhook Callback URL and a Verify Token.
3. Subscribe to webhook events like messages , message_statuses , etc.
4. Deploy a lightweight backend to receive and respond to incoming WhatsApp messages.

Step 4: Go Live

1. Complete the Business Verification via Meta Business Manager.
2. Accept the WhatsApp Cloud API Terms of Service.
3. Add and verify a real phone number for production use.
4. Ensure your webhook and token are working with actual messages.