There’s no denying it in today’s messaging-first world, credibility is everything. Customers don’t want to guess if the number texting them is legit. They want instant trust. That’s where the WhatsApp green tick verification comes in. That tiny badge next to your business name? It’s not just a design element it’s a trust signal. A verified badge tells people you’re the real deal.
If you’re a brand trying to stand out on WhatsApp Business, here’s your go-to WhatsApp business verification guide. We’ll walk you through the requirements, process, pitfalls, and strategies to make sure your business gets verified and stays verified.
What is the WhatsApp Green Tick?
The green tick is WhatsApp’s way of saying, “Yes, we’ve checked. This business is legit.” It appears right next to your business name in chats and contact info. Only brands who’ve applied and cleared WhatsApp’s verification process can get it.
This badge is reserved for businesses using the WhatsApp Business API setup, not the standard WhatsApp Business app. So if you’re still on the regular app, you’ll need to upgrade first. More on that in a bit.
Why It Matters
That tick isn’t just for show. It helps you:
- Look official from the first interaction
- Increase open and response rates
- Improve click-through on campaigns
- Avoid being mistaken for spam
- Stand out from competitors in the inbox
In short, verified businesses get taken more seriously, which directly impacts sales and brand reputation.
Eligibility Criteria for WhatsApp Verification
Before we jump into the steps, let’s address who even qualifies for verification. Not every business will get the tick and that’s the point. It’s meant to be exclusive.
Here’s the eligibility criteria for WhatsApp verification:
- Use of WhatsApp Business API: This is non-negotiable. Only businesses using the API via a BSP (Business Solution Provider) are considered.
- Reputation: Well-known or high-visibility businesses (regional or global) have a better chance.
- Media Presence: Having press coverage from trusted sources helps.
- Business Authenticity: You need to submit valid legal documents, like GST registration, PAN, website, etc.
- Compliance: Your business must comply with WhatsApp’s policies especially around user data, messaging behavior, and privacy.
Just getting on the API doesn’t mean you’ll be verified. But without the API, you’re not even in the running.
How to Get Verified on WhatsApp: Step-by-Step
Here’s how to get verified on WhatsApp in a few clear steps:
1. Switch to WhatsApp Business API
This is your first step. You can’t apply for verification using the free WhatsApp Business app. You need the API. To get access, partner with an official WhatsApp Business Solution Provider (BSP).
Your BSP will help with:
- Setting up your WhatsApp Business API setup
- Hosting your number
- Enabling messaging features
- Submitting verification requests on your behalf
Also, make sure two-step authentication for the WhatsApp API is enabled. It adds a security layer and is mandatory during setup.
2. Create and Optimize Your Business Profile
Once your account is set up via the API, customize your WhatsApp Business profile. Add:
- Display Name
- Business Description
- Logo
- Website
- Email & Phone
- Business Category
Keep everything consistent with what appears on your website or other public platforms.
3. Submit Legal Documents
You’ll be asked to submit:
- Company registration proof (like GST, PAN, or incorporation certificate)
- Website URL
- Official email ID
- Social media links
- Any relevant government licenses
This is how WhatsApp confirms your legitimacy.
4. Request the Green Tick
Now ask your BSP to initiate the green tick request via Facebook Business Manager. They’ll fill out the request form for you.
Make sure your Facebook Business Manager is verified too this speeds things up.
5. Wait for Approval
Once submitted, Meta reviews your application. This could take 2–15 business days. If approved, the verified WhatsApp business badge (green tick) will automatically appear next to your business name.
What If Your Application Gets Rejected?
Don’t panic. Many businesses don’t get approved the first time. You can reapply after 30 days but only if there’s been a real change.
Improve your chances by:
- Getting more press mentions
- Building social proof
- Growing followers on Instagram, LinkedIn, Twitter
- Fixing any inconsistent or missing business details
- Ensuring website and branding match your WhatsApp profile.
Best Practices to Stay Verified
Once you’ve earned your blue tick business account (a term often used interchangeably with green tick, though technically it’s green), don’t mess it up. Here’s how to keep your status:
- Don’t spam: Stick to relevant, user-approved messages only
- Use Opt-ins: Always get user consent before messaging
- Monitor Quality Rating: If too many users report or block you, you risk being flagged
- Respect Messaging Limits: Stay within daily quota limits provided by Meta
- Use templates smartly: Don’t misuse message templates for non-service messages
Keep 2FA On: Use two-step authentication for WhatsApp API to prevent misuse
Benefits of a Verified WhatsApp Business
Let’s be honest, it’s not easy to get that green tick. But when you do, it’s worth it.
Here’s what you unlock:
1. Brand Authority
Customers trust you more. You become instantly credible, even to first-time users.
2. Higher Response Rates
People are more likely to open, read, and respond to a verified sender.
3. Better Campaign ROI
Your WhatsApp marketing messages get better engagement when you’re verified.
4. Anti-Phishing Shield
Scammers can’t easily impersonate you once your name and tick appear together.
5. Priority Visibility
In some cases, WhatsApp may show verified brands higher in contact lists or offer features earlier.
Pro Tips to Increase Your Chances of Approval
Getting approved isn’t about luck it’s strategy. Here’s what works:
- Get published on major news sites
- Register your brand trademark (bonus points)
- Be active on multiple channels (website + social)
- List your business on Google My Business
- Avoid shortened URLs in templates
Use your actual domain email (not Gmail/Yahoo)
The WhatsApp Marketing Angle
A verified WhatsApp business badge isn’t just about branding. It directly ties into your WhatsApp marketing game.
Once verified, you can:
- Run more effective retargeting campaigns
- Use click-to-WhatsApp ads with higher conversions
- Automate conversations with confidence
- Integrate CRM and support tools
- Launch drip campaigns using the API
All while being seen as a legit source which is half the battle in today’s noisy inbox.
Is It Worth It?
100%.
If you’re using WhatsApp to connect with customers, get sales, or support queries you want that green tick.
Follow this WhatsApp business verification guide, check the eligibility criteria for WhatsApp verification, and don’t skip the setup details around WhatsApp Business API setup, two-step authentication for WhatsApp API, and business profile optimization.
It’s a one-time effort that brings long-term trust, visibility, and performance. And if you’re building a serious presence on WhatsApp, that’s non-negotiable.