- The WhatsApp green tick (official business account badge) is available for WhatsApp API numbers, and Meta alone makes the decision.
- The key criterion is brand notability: coverage in independent, well-known news sources, not paid articles or links from your own site.
- Nobody can guarantee approval, but good preparation improves your chances, and an official API account serves customers professionally even without the badge.
Many companies ask how to get the WhatsApp green tick. The short answer: it is not something you buy. It is a request reviewed by Meta against its own criteria, the most important being that your brand is well known. As a Meta Business Partner we activate the WhatsApp API and submit verification requests for eligible accounts.
What is the green tick?
A badge next to the business name in chats and the business profile, showing Meta has confirmed the account represents a real, notable brand. People call it the "green tick", though its look may change with Meta updates. It builds trust, helps customers spot impersonators and makes confirmations and reminders more credible.
Who is eligible?
Official WhatsApp API numbers can apply. Being on the API does not mean automatic approval, and no provider can guarantee it. In some countries Meta also offers a separate "Meta Verified" subscription for businesses; availability, terms and price are set by Meta.
Meta's criteria
| Criterion | What it means | How to prepare |
|---|---|---|
| Business verification | Verified Meta Business account | Valid CR, matching legal name, company website |
| Notability | Coverage in independent news sources | Genuine press coverage and interviews |
| Display name | Matches the company or known brand | No marketing words in the name |
| Security | Two-step verification on the number | Enabled during activation |
| Messaging quality | Opt-in messages, few reports | Approved templates, useful content |
Notability decides most requests. Independent news articles count; paid or promotional articles, press-release sites, your own website, social profiles and directories usually do not. There is no published minimum number of links, but more recent coverage from stronger sources helps.
Do not confuse Meta business verification with the green tick. Business verification proves your company legally exists and unlocks higher limits; the badge is a separate step proving your brand is notable. You can be fully verified and still be declined for the badge.
Building a stronger notability file
- Real news: a new branch, a partnership, a new service, an exhibition or conference.
- Interviews: your founder or CEO in a known news outlet or programme.
- Variety: links from several outlets beat many links from one.
- Consistent name: the company name in articles should match the name you apply with.
- Working links: check every link before submitting.
How to apply
- Verify your Meta Business account.
- Activate your number on the WhatsApp API through a Meta partner, with an approved display name and two-step verification.
- Operate the account for a while with good quality.
- Prepare a list of independent news links about your company.
- Submit the request from WhatsApp Manager; we handle it with you.
- Wait for Meta's review, usually days, timing set by Meta.
Why requests are rejected, and what next
- Not enough independent coverage.
- Only promotional or self-published links.
- Display name does not match the company.
- Unverified business account or mismatched data.
- Low quality rating from reports.
You can reapply after the waiting period in Meta's rules (often about a month). Use the time to build real media presence and fix the display name and messaging quality.
Do you need the badge to start?
No. An official API account already gives you an approved display name, templates, a shared inbox for your whole team and a 24/7 chatbot. Comparing options? Read WhatsApp Business vs WhatsApp API. WhatsApp & inbox on Klamna is SAR 149/month incl. one user and one number, excluding VAT; Meta fees by usage.
How Etisalna helps
- Activating the official WhatsApp API on your mobile, landline or unified number.
- Helping with Meta business verification and data matching.
- Reviewing your display name and notability links before submitting for eligible accounts.
- Setting up templates and campaigns that protect your quality rating.
FAQ
Is the green tick paid?
Meta does not charge for the official-account request on API numbers, but the API itself has a platform subscription and conversation fees. Meta Verified is a separate offer set by Meta.
Can you guarantee it?
No one can. Meta decides; we prepare and submit the request properly.
How long does review take?
Usually days, but Meta sets the timing.
Can I lose the badge?
Yes, for example after changing the display name or breaching Meta policies.
Does my number have to be Saudi?
No. The WhatsApp API works with numbers from any country, and we serve companies across the GCC. Notability is usually judged in the market where your brand operates.
Want to know if your account is eligible? Talk to us or call 920031338.