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WhatsApp Cloud API Activation Guide

WhatsApp API Activation User Guide

Welcome to the WhatsApp API Activation Guide! This document provides a step-by-step overview to help you set up and manage your WhatsApp Cloud API through Shrinkit.

1. Requirements for WhatsApp API Activation

To activate the WhatsApp API with Shrinkit, you’ll need:

  • Optional Verified Meta Account: This is recommended but not mandatory. The name on the Meta account must match the requested name for the WhatsApp number.

  • Unused Mobile Number: The mobile number you plan to use must not have been previously registered with WhatsApp.

2. Setup Time

  • Duration: The setup typically takes one business day after all necessary information is provided.

3. Setup Fees

  • One-Time Fee: A one-time activation fee of $80 is required for setting up the WhatsApp API through Shrinkit.
  • Additional Fees: This fee does not cover green tick verification, which is a separate service.

4. Green Tick Verification

  • What It Is: The green tick adds a verified badge to your WhatsApp Business Account (WABA), increasing credibility.
  • Cost & Duration: This process costs $900 and usually takes at least two months for Meta to approve.

5. Using WhatsApp Without a Verified Meta Account

  • Default Naming: If you do not have a verified Meta account, your WhatsApp number will be displayed as "(Brand Name) by Shrinkit."
  • Full Functionality: You can still use all features of the WhatsApp API with this setup.

6. Ongoing Costs and Message Fees

  • Meta Charges: After the initial 1,000 free messages provided by Meta each month, you will need to maintain a prepaid balance of at least $100 or provide a credit card for continued usage.
  • Message Costs: Charges vary based on the type of message (user-initiated or business-initiated) and the region of your customers.

7. Additional Information

  • Prefer not to use the Cloud API?: Shrinkit also offers the WhatsApp channel, which pairs a normal WhatsApp number by QR code with no setup fee and no Meta approval — but without templates, multi-agent support or the COD confirmation flows. See Messaging Channels.
  • Support & Updates: As a user of the official WhatsApp API, you will receive regular updates and support from WhatsApp through Shrinkit.

By following this guide, you can efficiently activate and manage your WhatsApp Cloud API through Shrinkit, ensuring smooth communication and enhanced engagement with your customers. If you have any questions or need further assistance, feel free to contact our support team.

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