What are templates?
In the official WhatsApp API, you can only send messages freely while the 24-hour conversation window is open (i.e., when the customer has recently sent you a message). Outside this window, the only way to start a conversation is through templates — pre-defined messages that must be approved by Meta before they can be sent.Categories
Each template needs a category that defines the type of communication. Choosing the wrong category can get your template rejected by Meta.Template structure
Every template is composed of components. Each component has a role:Placeholders
You can use dynamic variables in text with{{1}}, {{2}}, etc. When creating the template, you must send real examples for each placeholder — Meta uses these examples during review.
Template flow
The API organizes templates by business (WABA — WhatsApp Business Account). Each business has its own templates, approval history, and limits.1
Identify your WABA
Use the list WABAs endpoint to get the correct
businessId for your token.2
Create the template
Choose the category, build the components with placeholders and examples, and submit for approval.
3
Wait for approval
Meta reviews the template and returns a status:
PENDING, APPROVED, or REJECTED.4
Send messages
With an approved template, you can use it to start conversations with customers outside the 24h window.