I'm not receiving the Meta verification code

You want to register an existing number with the WhatsApp Business API, but you aren't receiving the verification code needed for the setup? Here are possible reasons why the code isn't getting to you.

If the phone linked to the number is in Do Not Disturb or Flight Mode, the verification call will not go through. You can make sure the phone is able to receive calls by testing it with another phone before starting the verification process.

If the phone number you want to register for the WhatsApp Business API is connected to an answering machine, call queue, or hold message, you may not receive the verification call.

The verification call is automated, and the system cannot reliably distinguish between a real person and an answering machine. In many cases, the call will disconnect as soon as it detects a greeting or queue.

To avoid this, temporarily disable any greeting, call queue, or answering machine until you receive the verification call from Meta.

If you are registering an existing 0800 (toll-free) number with the WhatsApp Business API, the verification call from Meta will be sent to that number. The call typically comes from an international (English) number.

Please note that German 0800 numbers often cannot receive calls from abroad. If this is the case, the verification call will not go through.

Make sure your number can receive international calls. If you are unsure, contact your phone provider to confirm.

The same applies if you are registering a Superchat number with the WhatsApp Business API and have set up an 0800 number as call forwarding in Superchat.