How to Apply for WhatsApp Green Tick Verification?

WhatsApp has grown into one of the most popular messaging apps globally, with over 2 billion active users. According to a recent study, more than 50 million businesses use WhatsApp for communication, sales, and customer support. Its reach in the business world is undeniable, making it a vital platform for brands to connect with their customers.

A WhatsApp Green Tick, also known as WhatsApp Business verification, sets a brand apart by adding a layer of authenticity. This verification gives customers confidence that they’re interacting with a genuine, official business. For brands, it enhances trust, increases engagement, and ultimately boosts credibility.

In this blog, we’ll dive deep into what the WhatsApp Green Tick is, how it benefits your business, and provide a step-by-step guide on how you can apply for it. Whether you’re new to WhatsApp Business or looking to get verified, this comprehensive guide will cover everything you need to know!

What is a WhatsApp Green Tick?

The WhatsApp Green Tick is a verification badge given to official WhatsApp Business accounts. It signifies that a business is verified by WhatsApp as a legitimate and trusted entity. This green checkmark appears next to the business name in the chat window, assuring customers that they are interacting with an authentic brand. Having the green tick makes your business stand out from regular accounts, helping build trust and credibility with your audience. It’s an essential feature for businesses looking to strengthen their brand’s reputation on WhatsApp.

Difference Between a Regular WhatsApp Business Account and an Official WhatsApp Business Account

There are two types of WhatsApp Business accounts: Regular WhatsApp Business Account and Official WhatsApp Business Account. A regular account allows businesses to connect with customers, send updates, and manage conversations, but it does not carry any special verification. On the other hand, an Official WhatsApp Business Account is verified by WhatsApp, signified by the green tick badge, making it instantly recognizable as a trusted entity. This verification helps the business stand out, improving credibility and customer trust.

In the section below, we’ll explore the key differences between these two types of accounts. This will give you a clear understanding of what sets an official account apart and why it’s important for your brand.

Benefits of a Green Tick Verified WhatsApp Business Account

Getting a WhatsApp Green Tick adds immense value to your business beyond just credibility. Let’s explore the key benefits that come with a Green Tick Verified WhatsApp Business Account.

1. Increased Trust and Credibility

Having the green tick beside your business name instantly builds trust with customers. It signals that WhatsApp has verified your brand, making customers more likely to engage without fear of fraud or scam. Trust is a key factor in customer engagement and retention.

2. Enhanced Brand Visibility

A verified WhatsApp business account displays your official business name, not just your phone number, even if customers haven’t saved your contact. This makes your brand stand out in a crowded inbox and ensures customers easily recognize your business.

3. Higher Customer Engagement

Customers are more likely to open and respond to messages from verified accounts, boosting your overall engagement rate. The green tick assures customers that the messages are authentic, leading to more interaction and better conversion rates.

4. Improved Customer Service

With enhanced trust and visibility, you can provide more efficient customer service. Customers will feel comfortable reaching out to a verified brand, leading to smoother communication, quicker issue resolution, and stronger relationships.

5. Protection Against Impersonation

The green tick also safeguards your brand from being impersonated by fake or fraudulent accounts. By being verified, you ensure that customers know they’re engaging with the real, official version of your business.

Pros and Cons of a WhatsApp Green Tick

A WhatsApp Green Tick offers various advantages for businesses, but it’s essential to understand both the benefits and potential drawbacks. In this section, we’ll explore the pros and cons of having a Green Tick Verified WhatsApp Business Account, helping you decide if it’s right for your business.

Pros of a WhatsApp Green Tick

1. Enhanced Brand Trust

The WhatsApp Green Tick instantly boosts your brand’s trustworthiness. Customers are more likely to interact with a verified account, as it signals that the business is legitimate and trustworthy. This helps reduce concerns about fraud or fake profiles, leading to stronger relationships and higher engagement.

2. Better Customer Engagement

Verified WhatsApp accounts often see higher engagement rates. Customers feel more confident in interacting with verified businesses, leading to more open conversations, faster responses, and improved customer satisfaction. This can result in better conversion rates for your marketing efforts.

3. Official Business Recognition

A Green Tick makes your business easily recognizable. Even if customers haven’t saved your number, your official business name will be displayed, standing out in their inbox. This increased visibility helps you stay top of mind with customers and increases your brand recognition.

4. Safeguard Against Impersonation

By verifying your account, you protect your business from being impersonated by fraudulent entities. This is especially important for well-known brands that are often targeted by fake accounts. The Green Tick ensures customers are dealing with the official account, reducing the risk of scams.

5. Improved Messaging Credibility

Messages from verified accounts are less likely to be flagged as spam by customers or WhatsApp itself. The Green Tick adds legitimacy to your communications, increasing the chances that your messages will be opened and read, rather than ignored or reported.

Cons of a WhatsApp Green Tick

1. Stringent Requirements

One of the biggest drawbacks of obtaining a WhatsApp Green Tick is the strict eligibility criteria. Businesses must meet several prerequisites, including notability, verified Meta Business Manager, and API access. This makes the process challenging, especially for smaller businesses or startups that may not yet have widespread recognition.

2. Time-Consuming Process

The application process for a Green Tick can be lengthy and may take weeks or even months for approval. Additionally, if your application gets rejected, you’ll need to address the issues and reapply, which can further delay the process.

3. Not Available for All Industries

Certain industries, such as those involved in cryptocurrency, gambling, or illegal services, are not eligible for the WhatsApp Green Tick. This limitation can be a significant drawback for businesses in restricted sectors, who may not be able to leverage the benefits of verification.

4. No Direct Impact on Message Delivery

While the Green Tick boosts credibility, it does not affect message delivery speed or open rates directly. It won’t improve technical features like faster message routing or guarantee your messages avoid spam filters, as this still depends on customer interactions and quality content.

5. Limited Control Over Approval

Even after meeting all the prerequisites, the final approval for a Green Tick lies with WhatsApp. The decision process can be somewhat opaque, and there’s no guarantee your application will be accepted, which can lead to frustration for businesses that feel they’ve met all the criteria.

Prerequisites to Apply for WhatsApp Green Tick

There are several important prerequisites to apply for a WhatsApp Green Tick. These requirements ensure that only credible and notable businesses receive verification. To successfully apply, your business must meet the following criteria:

1. WhatsApp API Access: Your business must use the WhatsApp Business API to apply.

2. Verified Meta Business Manager: Your Meta Business Manager must be verified.

3. Approved Display Name: Your business’s display name must be approved by WhatsApp.

4. Notable Brand: Your brand must be recognized or notable in its industry.

5. Two-step Verification: Two-step verification must be enabled on your WhatsApp API number.

6. Compliance with WhatsApp Policies: Your business must comply with WhatsApp’s Business and Commerce policies.

Meeting these prerequisites is essential for starting the verification process, ensuring you are eligible for a Green Tick.

1. WhatsApp API Access

To apply for a WhatsApp Green Tick, your business must have access to the WhatsApp Business API. This is a mandatory requirement, as the Green Tick is reserved for businesses using this advanced version of WhatsApp. The API allows businesses to automate messaging, integrate chatbots, and manage large-scale communication more efficiently. Without API access, you won’t be eligible for the green tick verification, as this feature is specifically designed for businesses that use WhatsApp at scale to engage with their customers.

2. Verified Meta Business Manager

To apply for a WhatsApp Green Tick, it is mandatory that your Meta Business Manager (formerly Facebook Business Manager) is verified. This verification ensures that your business has met Meta’s standards for authenticity, compliance, and security. Without a verified Meta Business Manager, your WhatsApp Green Tick application will not be approved.

For more details on how to verify your Meta Business Manager, check out our comprehensive guide on how to verify Facebook Business Manager. This guide will walk you through the steps necessary to complete the verification process and make your business eligible for the Green Tick on WhatsApp.

3. Approved Display Name

Before applying for a WhatsApp Green Tick, your Display Name must be approved by WhatsApp. The display name is the official name that will appear to users when they interact with your business on WhatsApp. It must accurately represent your brand and follow WhatsApp’s naming guidelines, which include being clear, related to your business, and avoiding excessive punctuation or emojis.

An approved display name ensures that customers know they are communicating with the legitimate business, further enhancing trust and recognition. Without an approved display name, you cannot proceed with the green tick verification process.

4. Tier 2 or Higher Messaging Levels (Optional, but Recommended)

While it is optional, it’s recommended to reach Tier 2 or higher messaging levels before applying for a WhatsApp Green Tick. Higher messaging tiers allow businesses to send more messages to unique users, showcasing that your account is actively engaging with customers. Reaching these higher levels can increase your chances of approval, as it demonstrates robust usage of WhatsApp’s services.

However, based on our experience at chatbot.team, many businesses have successfully received the Green Tick even with Tier 1 messaging levels, as long as they meet the other criteria. So, while not mandatory, striving for a higher messaging tier can give your application a competitive edge.

4. Your Brand Must be Notable

To be eligible for a WhatsApp Green Tick, it is one of Meta’s strict guidelines that your brand must be notable. Notability means that your business is well-recognized in its industry or widely known by a large audience. This could be through significant media presence, public awareness, or established authority in your sector.

Notability is essential because it ensures that only legitimate, reputable businesses are verified. Without this, WhatsApp aims to prevent misuse of the platform. To learn more about Meta’s requirements for notability and how to achieve the green tick, you can refer to WhatsApp’s official documentation on business account notability.

5. Media Coverages

To increase your chances of getting a WhatsApp Green Tick, your brand must be featured in major and reputable media coverage outlets. This includes recognized news platforms, industry publications, or other authoritative sources. Having significant media coverage demonstrates that your business is notable and widely recognized, which is a key factor in WhatsApp’s verification process.

The more media attention your brand receives, the stronger your application will be, as it proves that your business is established, trustworthy, and well-known in its field. Without such coverage, achieving the Green Tick can be more challenging.

6. Two-step Verification Must be Enabled on Your WhatsApp API Number

To apply for a WhatsApp Green Tick, it is mandatory to enable two-step verification on your WhatsApp API number. This security measure adds an extra layer of protection by requiring a six-digit PIN when accessing your account. Enabling two-step verification ensures that only authorized personnel can access the WhatsApp API, reducing the risk of unauthorized use or hacking.

This step is essential to demonstrate to WhatsApp that your business takes security seriously. Without two-step verification enabled, your application for the Green Tick will not be approved.

7. Compliance with WhatsApp Policies

To apply for a WhatsApp Green Tick, your business must comply with WhatsApp’s Business Policy and Commerce Policy. These policies outline the rules and regulations that businesses must follow while using WhatsApp for commercial purposes. This includes ensuring that your messaging practices align with WhatsApp’s guidelines for privacy, customer interaction, and content.

Failing to comply with these policies can lead to the rejection of your Green Tick application or even account suspension. To avoid this, make sure your business adheres to both the WhatsApp Business Policy and the WhatsApp Commerce Policy.

How to Apply for a WhatsApp Green Tick: Step by Step Guide

Now that you understand the prerequisites for applying for a WhatsApp Green Tick, it’s time to explore the actual application process. There are two main ways to apply: through Meta Business Manager or via a WhatsApp Business Solution Provider (BSP). Both methods offer a clear path to getting your business verified with the coveted green tick.

Below, we provide a detailed step-by-step guide for each method to help you navigate the process smoothly and maximize your chances of approval.

Apply for a WhatsApp Green Tick through Meta Business Manager

Ensure All Prerequisites Are Met: Before you start, ensure that you have WhatsApp API access, a verified Meta Business Manager, an approved display name, two-step verification enabled, and that your business complies with WhatsApp’s policies.

1. Log in to Meta Business Manager

Access your Meta Business Manager account using your login credentials.

2. Go to Business Settings

In the dashboard, navigate to the “Business Settings” section.

3. Click on WhatsApp Accounts

Under the settings, find the “WhatsApp Accounts” option and click on it.

4. Select the WhatsApp Business Account

Choose the WhatsApp Business Account associated with the number you want to verify.

5. Request Official Business Account

Once selected, you’ll see the option to apply for an “Official Business Account” under the account settings. Click on this option to start the application process.

6. Submit Required Information

Enter all required details, such as your business name, website, and any relevant documents that prove your business’s notability.

7. Submit Application

Review your information, ensure everything is accurate, and then submit your application for review.

8. Wait for Approval

WhatsApp will review your application and notify you of the outcome. If successful, your account will be verified with the green tick.

Apply for a WhatsApp Green Tick through a WhatsApp Business Solution Provider (BSP)

1. Choose a WhatsApp BSP

Identify a trusted WhatsApp Business Solution Provider. BSPs are third-party companies that assist businesses with WhatsApp API access and green tick verification.

2. Submit Prerequisites to BSP

Provide your BSP with all the necessary prerequisites, including your verified Meta Business Manager, approved display name, and business compliance documentation.

3. BSP Submits Application on Your Behalf

The BSP will submit the application to WhatsApp for you, ensuring that all the information is properly filled out and meets WhatsApp’s standards.

4. Wait for Feedback

Once the BSP submits the application, you will need to wait for WhatsApp’s review process. The BSP will keep you informed about any updates or additional information required.

5. Receive Green Tick

If approved, your business account will be verified with the green tick, signaling authenticity and trust to your customers.

Both methods allow businesses to apply for verification, but using a BSP can simplify the process by handling much of the work for you.

What if Your Application Gets Rejected for WhatsApp Green Tick Verification?

If your application for the WhatsApp Green Tick gets rejected, don’t worry — there are actionable steps you can take to improve your chances of approval the next time. While rejection can be frustrating, it’s important to carefully review the reasons for the denial and address them before reapplying. You can typically reapply after 30 days. Meanwhile, you can look at the following steps to improve your chances of getting verified in your next attempt:

1. Review the Rejection Reason

First, carefully examine the rejection notice from WhatsApp. They usually provide a reason why your application was denied. Common reasons include insufficient media coverage, lack of notability, or incomplete prerequisites. Once you understand the specific issue, you’ll know what areas need improvement.

2. Try to Solve the Cause of Rejection

Based on the rejection reason, take steps to address the specific issue. For example, if your Meta Business Manager was not verified or your display name wasn’t approved, resolve these issues before reapplying. Rectifying the core problem will increase your chances of approval next time.

3. Increase Media Coverage

One of the key factors for a Green Tick is the notability of your brand. If your brand lacks media coverage, focus on gaining visibility by being featured in reputable publications or news outlets. Partner with PR agencies, publish industry thought leadership articles, or collaborate with influencers to boost your brand’s exposure.

4. Reach Tier 2 or Higher Messaging Levels

While reaching Tier 2 or higher messaging levels is not mandatory, it can significantly strengthen your application. Higher messaging tiers indicate that your business actively engages with customers, making your brand more credible in the eyes of WhatsApp. If you’re currently at Tier 1, aim to increase your message volume and engagement levels.

4. Ensure Your Business Complies with WhatsApp Business Policies

A common reason for rejection is non-compliance with WhatsApp Business or Commerce Policies. Review your practices to ensure you adhere to all the guidelines, including how you handle customer data, how your business interacts with users, and your general messaging practices. You can review the WhatsApp Business Policy and Commerce Policy for more information.

6. Contact WhatsApp Support

If you’ve reviewed all the possible issues and still face rejection, it may be worth reaching out to WhatsApp Support for additional guidance. They may provide further clarification on what went wrong and offer insights on how to improve your application for the next round.

By following these steps, you’ll be in a stronger position when you reapply for the WhatsApp Green Tick.

Businesses That Can’t Apply for WhatsApp Green Tick Verification

Not all businesses are eligible to apply for the WhatsApp Green Tick. WhatsApp has strict guidelines to ensure that only credible and compliant businesses receive verification. Certain industries and types of businesses are restricted from obtaining the Green Tick due to regulatory concerns or policy violations. Below is a list of businesses that are typically ineligible for Green Tick verification:

1. Cryptocurrency and Blockchain-related businesses
2. Gambling and Betting Services
3. Adult Content and Services
4. Tobacco and Vape Products
5. Illegal Products or Services
6. Unlicensed Pharmaceutical Sales
7. Weapons, Ammunition, and Explosives

These businesses are restricted due to either policy violations, legal concerns, or potential risks associated with these industries. For a complete list of prohibited businesses, always refer to WhatsApp’s official guidelines.

2 Proven Hacks to Get the WhatsApp Green Tick Quickly

At chatbot.team, we’ve helped numerous businesses successfully get the WhatsApp Green Tick, and through this experience, we’ve discovered two effective hacks that can speed up the process. These methods have been particularly useful for businesses aiming to get verified more quickly.

Apply for WhatsApp Green Tick with Tier 1 Messaging Level

While it’s generally recommended to reach Tier 2 or higher messaging levels before applying for the Green Tick, we’ve found that it’s still possible to get verified at Tier 1. Tier 1 allows businesses to message up to 1,000 unique users within a 24-hour period. If your business meets all the other prerequisites—such as having a verified Meta Business Manager and notable brand status—applying with Tier 1 messaging can be a faster way to secure the Green Tick. This is especially helpful for businesses that are new to WhatsApp Business but have strong media coverage or are well-established in their industries.

Using Parent Company’s WhatsApp Green Tick for Sub-Brands

Another strategy we’ve found highly effective is leveraging a parent company’s WhatsApp Green Tick for its sub-brands. If your parent company is already verified, you can use this to your advantage when applying for a Green Tick for a sub-brand. The notability and credibility of the parent company can often extend to sub-brands, making the verification process smoother. WhatsApp is more likely to approve the application for sub-brands when they are associated with an already trusted and verified parent company.

Both of these hacks have been successfully used by businesses to accelerate the Green Tick verification process, providing a quicker path to establishing trust and credibility on WhatsApp.

Best Practices for Green Tick Verified WhatsApp Business Accounts

Once your business has been verified with the WhatsApp Green Tick, it’s important to follow best practices to maintain your verified status and build customer trust. These practices will help you make the most of your Green Tick verification by fostering engagement, compliance, and customer satisfaction.

1. Ask Users to Opt-in

Always ensure that users have opted in to receive messages from your business. Gaining proper consent helps maintain trust and keeps you compliant with WhatsApp’s messaging policies. This also improves the quality of interactions, as customers will be more engaged when they’ve willingly opted in to communicate with your business.

2. Maintain High-Quality Customer Interactions

Focus on providing meaningful and valuable interactions with your customers. Respond to queries promptly, offer helpful solutions, and keep your messaging relevant. High-quality interactions increase customer satisfaction and improve your brand’s reputation, encouraging repeat engagement.

3. Provide Value-Added Content

Deliver content that adds value to your customers. Whether it’s exclusive offers, helpful tips, or relevant updates, giving customers a reason to interact with your business on WhatsApp keeps engagement high and builds loyalty. Content that resonates with your audience also reduces the likelihood of messages being flagged as spam.

4. Comply with WhatsApp Policies

It’s crucial to continue complying with WhatsApp’s Business and Commerce Policies even after gaining the Green Tick. This includes respecting user privacy, handling customer data responsibly, and ensuring that your messages align with WhatsApp’s guidelines. Failure to do so could result in losing your verified status.

5. Ensure Compliance and Privacy

Always prioritize compliance with data protection laws and WhatsApp’s privacy standards. Implement secure data management practices, enable two-step verification, and ensure that customer information is handled carefully. Maintaining high levels of privacy protection reassures customers and helps you avoid penalties.

Following these best practices ensures that you continue to leverage the benefits of your Green Tick verified status while maintaining strong customer relationships and compliance with WhatsApp’s policies.

Using WhatsApp Business API without WhatsApp Green Tick

You can still utilize the WhatsApp Business API even if your business doesn’t have the WhatsApp Green Tick. While the Green Tick adds credibility, not having it doesn’t limit your ability to engage with customers effectively. The WhatsApp Business API provides powerful features that can enhance your communication and marketing strategies.

Here are the key things you can still do with the WhatsApp Business API without the Green Tick:

1. Send Click-to-WhatsApp Ads: Run ads on Facebook and Instagram that directly link to WhatsApp, allowing users to start a conversation with your business instantly.

2. Broadcast Messages: Send out broadcast messages to a large number of customers at once, making it easy to share updates, promotions, or important notifications.

3. Send Promotional Messages: Use the API to send personalized promotional offers, product updates, or discounts to your customers to drive engagement and sales.

4. Automate Customer Service: Integrate chatbots to handle routine customer inquiries and provide support 24/7, ensuring efficient and consistent communication.

5. Use Rich Media Messaging: Send images, videos, files, or interactive buttons to enhance customer engagement and provide a richer experience.

6. Track and Analyze Interactions: Utilize analytics tools to track customer interactions, measure message performance, and improve your overall strategy.

These features allow businesses to use WhatsApp effectively, even without the Green Tick, making it a valuable tool for communication and marketing.

A Recent Update from Meta: WhatsApp Green Tick Changes to Blue Tick

In a recent update from Meta, the WhatsApp Green Tick verification badge has been changed to a Blue Tick. This change aligns with Meta’s unified approach to verifying businesses across its platforms, similar to the blue verification badge used on Facebook and Instagram. The blue tick serves the same purpose as the previous green tick, signifying that the business is officially verified and trusted by WhatsApp.

This update doesn’t change the requirements or benefits of the verification process but aims to provide a more consistent experience across Meta’s suite of apps. For more information, you can read the official update from Meta here.

Conclusion

In conclusion, obtaining the WhatsApp Green Tick (or now, the Blue Tick) is a powerful way to enhance your business’s credibility and customer trust. While the application process may seem complex with strict prerequisites like WhatsApp API access, a verified Meta Business Manager, and brand notability, the benefits far outweigh the effort. From improved brand visibility to safeguarding against impersonation, the Green Tick provides significant value for businesses looking to establish trust and authority.

Even if your application gets rejected initially, you can reapply after 30 days by addressing the reasons for rejection and following the best practices shared in this guide. Whether you’re applying directly through Meta Business Manager or using a WhatsApp Business Solution Provider, this comprehensive guide has outlined every step to help your business achieve verification and take full advantage of WhatsApp’s powerful business tools.