Resources

WhatsApp Message Templates: Guidance and Examples

Understand how WhatsApp message templates work, what categories apply and how businesses use them effectively.

What is a WhatsApp message template?

A message template is a pre-approved message format used for business-initiated WhatsApp communications. Templates must be submitted to and approved by Meta before use.

Template categories

  • Marketing: Promotions, offers and campaign messages.
  • Utility: Transactional notifications and confirmations.
  • Authentication: OTPs and verification codes.
  • Service: Used within the customer-initiated 24-hour service window.

Template components

Templates can include: header (text, image, video or document), body text with variable placeholders, footer text and action buttons (call-to-action or quick reply).

Approval process

Submit templates through your BSP or directly in Meta Business Manager. Meta reviews for policy compliance. Approved templates can be used immediately. Rejected templates can be revised and resubmitted.

Example templates

Appointment reminder

Hi {{1}}, this is a reminder that your appointment with {{2}} is scheduled for {{3}}. Reply YES to confirm or NO to reschedule.

Order confirmation

Thank you for your order, {{1}}. Your order #{{2}} has been confirmed and will be ready by {{3}}. Contact us if you need any changes.

Re-engagement

Hi {{1}}, it's been a while. We have some updates we think you'll find useful. Reply STOP at any time to opt out.

FAQ

Frequently asked questions

Meta typically reviews templates within 24 hours, though this can vary.
Editing requires resubmission. The previous version remains active until the new version is approved.
Meta provides a rejection reason. Revise accordingly and resubmit. Persistent rejections may indicate a policy conflict — review Meta's template guidelines.
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Questions about WhatsApp setup?

We can walk through templates, opt-in and API onboarding for your team.