Do these WhatsApp Template Messages need to be approved by the WhatsApp Team?

Do these WhatsApp Template Messages need to be approved by the WhatsApp Team?

Yes — every WhatsApp Template Message must be reviewed and approved by Meta (formerly Facebook) before it can be used. This ensures compliance with WhatsApp’s Business Policy and guarantees that your messages can be reliably delivered to customers.

📋 What Happens During Review

Meta’s automated and manual checks validate:

  • Spelling & grammar – message must be error-free
  • Formatting – proper use of parameters (e.g., , )
  • Policy compliance – content must follow WhatsApp’s Business and Commerce guidelines
  • Clarity & tone – messages should not look spammy, abusive, or misleading

⏱️ Approval Timelines

  • Text-only templates → usually approved within minutes
  • Templates with media (image, video, PDF) → may take up to 24 hours
  • Complex cases (e.g., promotions, links) → may require manual review, causing longer delays

✅ Do vs. ❌ Don’t: Examples

Aspect

✅ Do (Accepted)

❌ Don’t (Rejected)

Language

“Hello , your order is confirmed.”

“Hola, your appointment is confirmed.” (mixed languages)

Formatting

“Hi , payment received.”

“Hi {1}” (wrong parameter format)

Tone

“Reminder: Your subscription renews on .”

“PAY NOW!!! OR LOSE ACCESS”

Links

https://yourbrand.com/help

https://bit.ly/offer123 (URL shortener)

Buttons

Quick reply: “Confirm Order”

Quick reply: “✅ Confirm” (emoji not allowed)

Industry

Retail, healthcare, education

Gambling, adult, tobacco, firearms

⚠️ Common Reasons for Rejection

  • Mixed languages or wrong language selection
  • Misformatted variables ({1} instead of )
  • Spammy formatting (ALL CAPS, excessive punctuation)
  • Use of shortened or third-party URLs
  • Emojis in button labels
  • Prohibited industries (gambling, adult, tobacco, weapons)

🧭 Best Practices Checklist

Before submitting your template:

  • Proofread for grammar and spelling
  • Match selected language with message text
  • Use correct parameter formatting
  • Avoid spammy wording, ALL CAPS, or threatening tone
  • Use only business-owned domains for links
  • Keep button labels short, clear, and emoji-free
  • Test a basic “Hello” template first if onboarding API

🔁 If Your Template Is Rejected

  • You’ll see a rejection reason in your WhatsApp Business dashboard
  • Fix the issue (content, formatting, or policy violation)
  • Resubmit for approval — most re-reviews complete within 24 hours

✅ Summary:
Every WhatsApp Template Message needs Meta approval. Stick to correct formatting, clear business intent, and WhatsApp’s policies to speed up approval and avoid rejections.

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