Concepts

WhatsApp Blue Tick: 5 Steps to Get the Badge for Your Business

Román Filgueira
November 26, 2024

Curious about how to get the prestigious WhatsApp Blue Tick for your business? This guide provides all the essential information you need to verify your WhatsApp Business Account. We’ll start by explaining what the WhatsApp Blue Tick represents and the advantages it offers businesses. Drawing on our extensive experience and insights from assisting numerous clients, we’ll give you the steps to become an Official Business Account and share best practices to help you maximize the benefits of your verification.

What Is the WhatsApp Blue Tick?

The WhatsApp Blue Tick is the latest verification badge replacing the older Green Tick, marking a business as authenticated by Meta.

This image shows the transition from the WhatsApp Green Tick to the WhatsApp Blue Tick
WhatsApp’s verified icon has recently changed

The Blue Tick confirms the legitimacy of a business account, boosting customer trust and confidence. It is visible in chats, business profiles, contact cards and context cards, providing customers with immediate verification cues.

Businesses can obtain the WhatsApp Blue Tick without incurring costs, provided they meet the eligibility criteria.

Why Meta Transitioned to the WhatsApp Blue Tick

Meta implemented the Blue Tick for consistency across its ecosystem. This shift aligns WhatsApp with other Meta platforms, such as Instagram and Facebook, which already use blue badges for verified accounts.

Difference Between Blue Tick and Previous Green Tick

There is no real difference between the old and the new tick other than the visual change. However, the transition from Green to Blue Tick introduces greater inclusivity. Previously limited to API users, the Green Tick verification process was more restrictive.

Now, the Blue Tick is available to both WhatsApp Business App users and API users, bridging the gap and offering enhanced opportunities for small and large businesses alike.

<call-out> Meta plans to revise the process for obtaining a verified WhatsApp Blue Tick. Soon, businesses will have the option to subscribe to a monthly business plan that grants the WhatsApp blue tick alongside verified badges for Instagram and Facebook. These subscriptions will also come with additional features. <call-out>

What Happens If Your Business Is Already Verified with a Green Tick?

For businesses with an existing Green Tick, the transition to the Blue Tick happens automatically. There is no need to reapply or update any documentation. Verified businesses can continue operating seamlessly under the new system.

Why Is the WhatsApp Blue Tick Important for Businesses?

Here’s why you should verify your WhatsApp acount.

This image shows the benefits of acquiring the WhatsApp Blue Tick.
Some of the benefits of obtaining the WhatsApp Blue Tick

Enhanced Trust and Credibility

A verified badge establishes your business as legitimate and trustworthy, reducing doubts and skepticism among potential customers.

Increased Customer Confidence

Verified accounts often experience higher engagement rates, including improved open and response rates. Customers feel reassured interacting with verified businesses, leading to reduced spam concerns and better overall interaction quality.

Consistent Branding Across Meta Platforms

With verification unified across Meta platforms, businesses benefit from more consistent branding. Customers can easily identify verified accounts, leading to stronger recognition and better engagement across WhatsApp, Instagram and Facebook.

Better Performance in Messaging Ads

Verified businesses tend to achieve better Meta ads performance, including higher click-through and engagement rates. The Blue Tick is a trust signal, encouraging users to interact with messaging ads.

WhatsApp Blue Tick: Eligibility

To qualify for the WhatsApp Blue Tick, businesses must meet specific criteria designed to ensure their legitimacy and enhance their credibility on the platform. These requirements include the following.

Using a WhatsApp Business Account

To qualify, your business must actively use the WhatsApp Business App or API and comply with WhatsApp’s business policies. Meeting these requirements ensures businesses are legitimate and capable of using the platform effectively.

Verification via Meta Business Manager

Businesses must verify their Meta Business Manager accounts by submitting valid documentation. This step is crucial for confirming the legitimacy of the brand.

Enabling Two-Step Verification

Activating two-step verification enhances the security of your WhatsApp Business account. This measure helps protect your account against unauthorized access.

Demonstrating Notability

Meta assesses notability based on factors like how frequently a business is searched. Submitting 3–5 credible media references from trusted news outlets or publications can significantly strengthen your application. However, promotional or paid content is not accepted.

Verification also requires a verified Facebook Business Manager account and consistent branding across all channels. Proper documentation demonstrates your commitment to maintaining a credible business presence.

Meta will request some documents during your application process. More about that in the next section.

How to Get the WhatsApp Blue Tick

There are two ways to get the WhatsApp Blue Tick: Self-service verification on the WhatsApp Business App and assisted verification with a Business Solution Provider (BSP) like respond.io

This image shows two ways of verifying your WhatsApp account: Self-service verification or assisted verification.
Two ways of verifying your WhatsApp account

For WhatsApp Business App Users: Apply via Meta Business Manager

Small businesses using the WhatsApp Business App can independently verify their accounts on the Meta Business Manager. Here’s a step-by-step guide.

1. Choose the Phone Number

This image shows you the first step to get the WhatsApp Blue Tick: Choose your phone number.
First step to get the WhatsApp Blue Tick: Choose your phone number

Access the WhatsApp Manager and select the phone number associated with your account under the Overview section. This is the number you will use to request verification.

2. Enable Two-Step Verification

This image shows the second step to get the WhatsApp Blue Tick: Enable two-step verification.
Second step to get the WhatsApp Blue Tick: Enable two-step verification

Ensure two-step verification is turned on for the selected phone number. This security step must be completed before submitting your application.

3. Submit the Request

This image shows the Third step to get the WhatsApp Blue Tick: Submit the request.
Third step to get the WhatsApp Blue Tick: Submit the request

Fill in your business details within the WhatsApp Manager and click the Submit Request button. If your business does not meet Meta’s eligibility criteria, the button will remain inactive.

4. Provide Supporting Information

This image shows the fourth step to get the WhatsApp Blue Tick: Provide supporting information
Fourth step to get the WhatsApp Blue Tick: Provide supporting information

Submit additional details about your business, such as the reason for requesting verification and
up to five credible links showcasing your business's notability (e.g., press coverage or reputable mentions).

Also, include a short explanation of your business and its relevance in the market to strengthen your application.

5. Wait for Meta’s Review

Meta will review your application and respond within approximately three business days. Notifications will be sent via the contact method specified during the application process.

If applying through a Business Solution Provider (BSP), the steps may vary slightly depending on the provider’s process. Let’s dive in.

For WhatsApp Business API Users: Get Your WhatsApp Blue Tick Badge with Respond.io

WhatsApp API users have it easier, as they can apply through an official Business Solution Provider like respond.io. These providers streamline the application process by ensuring all requirements are met, including documentation and account verification.

The exact steps for obtaining the WhatsApp Blue Tick can vary depending on the BSP you work with. To get accurate details on the application process and associated fees, it’s advisable to contact your BSP directly.

Some providers may handle the application on your behalf, while others may guide you through their platform’s process. While most BSPs charge for this service, respond.io users can get assistance for free.

Common Requirements for BSP-Assisted Applications

Before beginning the application, we advise you prepare the following:

  • Verified Meta Business Manager Status (screenshot required)
  • Business Website URL
  • Facebook Page Link
  • Business Name (including any translations)
  • Facebook Business ID
  • WhatsApp Phone Number

Timelines for BSP-Assisted Applications

Depending on the BSP’s approach, they will either submit the Official Business Account application for you or provide step-by-step guidance. The timeline for completing the process can vary, typically ranging from 7 days to 3 weeks, which includes:

  • Document Preparation and Submission: 2–3 days
  • Meta’s Review Period: 5–7 days
  • Profile Setup (including two-step verification): 1–2 days
  • Final Notification of Approval or Rejection: 1–3 days

These durations may vary based on your specific BSP and how quickly your documentation is prepared and reviewed.

Best Practices for Leveraging the WhatsApp Blue Tick

Here are three tips to make the most of your WhatsApp Blue Tick.

Promote Your Verified Status

Use the Blue Tick in marketing materials to highlight your credibility. Customers are more likely to engage with verified businesses.

Ensure High-Quality Interactions

Maintain excellent customer service and adhere to platform policies. This helps preserve your verification status while building strong customer relationships.

Integrate WhatsApp Into Your Customer Journey

Leverage WhatsApp for support, sales, and engagement, making it a cornerstone of your customer journey.

FAQs About the WhatsApp Blue Tick

Does the Blue Tick offer more benefits than the Green Tick?

While the features remain the same, both WhatsApp Business App and WhatsApp Business Platform (API) users can obtain the WhatsApp Blue Tick.

How do I apply for the WhatsApp Blue Tick?

Use self-service tools in the app or partner with a Business Solution Provider like respond.io.

Is the Green Tick completely phased out?

Yes, the Blue Tick replaces the Green Tick as the new verification badge. Your existing verification will align seamlessly with the WhatsApp Blue Tick.

Further Reading

Román Filgueira
Content Writer
Román Filgueira, a University of Vigo graduate holding a Bachelor's in Foreign Languages, joined the respond.io team as a Content Writer in 2021. Román offers expert insights on best practices for using messaging apps to drive business growth.
Tags
mofu
Copied to Clipboard!