Overview
When selecting a number for your WhatsApp Business API, it's important to follow certain guidelines to ensure it meets the requirements. Changing your number later can be a hassle, so it's best to choose the right number from the start.
Here are some guidelines for selecting a WhatsApp Business API number:
The number must belong to you and be reachable when your channel is open.
Make sure the number includes both a country code and an area code.
If you're using a landline or voice-only capable number, it should be able to receive international calls.
The phone number must be able to receive international calls or SMS for the channel to be activated.
Use a "clean" number that hasn't been registered with another WhatsApp user. If you already use it in the WhatsApp app and want to use it in the API, migration is possible.
Acceptable number types include landline numbers that can receive international calls, regular phone numbers, and Virtual Mobile Numbers (VMN) with voice-capability for receiving activation tokens.
Unacceptable number types include shortcodes, IVR numbers with enabled automated call menus, freephone numbers, and voice-capable numbers that deviate from the standard international format.
Remember, it's important to follow these guidelines to ensure a smooth setup for your WhatsApp Business API number.