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WhatsApp API Pricing【2025 Guide】
Calculating WhatsApp Business API costs can be tricky, but understanding the pricing model is crucial for avoiding unnecessary expenses. In this blog post, we’ll break down the WhatsApp Business API pricing, the additional costs you’ll face, and how to manage them effectively.
Is WhatsApp Business API Free?
The WhatsApp Business App is free, but the WhatsApp Business Platform (WhatsApp API) comes with costs. Here’s a breakdown of the messaging charges.
WhatsApp Conversation Rates Explained
WhatsApp uses a conversation-based pricing model, where you’re charged per conversation, not per message. The key element of this model is the 24-hour customer service window, which encourages fast responses and better customer experience.
– These start when a customer sends the first message.
– The first 1,000 user-initiated conversations per month are free (subject to Meta’s policy).
– After the free tier, a standard charge applies when the business responds.
– Once the conversation begins, you can send unlimited replies within the 24-hour window with no additional charges.
– If you reach out to the customer first, or reply after the 24-hour window ends, you must use a pre-approved message template.
– Charges apply depending on the template category, such as:
– Utility – e.g., order status, reminders
– Authentication – e.g., one-time passwords
– Marketing – e.g., promos, product announcements
This pricing model helps businesses manage customer engagement more efficiently while encouraging timely communication.
1) Factors Affecting WhatsApp Conversation Charges
| Factor | Description |
|---|---|
| User vs Business-Initiated Conversations | User-initiated conversations are generally cheaper than business-initiated ones, encouraging efficient customer support. |
| Initiated Conversation Category | Conversation charges depend on the message template category used. If a business uses templates from multiple categories, separate charges apply for each. |
| Customer Country Code | Pricing varies based on the customer’s country code and network prefix. |
2) WhatsApp Message Charges by Meta
| Conversation Type | Pricing |
|---|---|
| User-Initiated Conversations | $0.008 to $0.05 per conversation (depending on the country) |
| Business-Initiated Conversations | Higher charges, depends on the template used. Marketing templates are more expensive than service or utility templates. |
3) Save Costs with Free Entry Points
| Free Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Free Conversations | Conversations initiated through click-to-WhatsApp ads or Facebook Page call-to-action buttons are free during the extended 72-hour window. These messages remain free, including template messages. |
| 1,000 Free Service Conversations | Each WhatsApp Business Account (WABA) gets 1,000 free service conversations per month, shared across multiple numbers linked to the same WABA account. |
Who Needs WhatsApp API?
WhatsApp API is ideal for businesses that require large-scale messaging or want to reduce the risk of being banned. Industries that benefit from WhatsApp API include:
- Businesses requiring large-scale broadcasting: to many customers.
- Companies aiming to improve brand visibility: WhatsApp API allows displaying the business name, making it easier for customers to recognize the brand.
Summary of WhatsApp API Pricing
WhatsApp API has costs.- Charges are based on user-initiated vs. business-initiated conversations.
- WhatsApp API is conversation-based, with a 24-hour customer service window.
- User-initiated conversations are cheaper, and charges are based on message template categories.
- Free entry points (click-to-WhatsApp ads, Facebook CTAs) and 1,000 free service conversations per month help save on costs.
- Marketing templates are generally more expensive than service or utility templates.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Does WhatsApp Business API have a 24-hour restriction?
Yes, WhatsApp Business API operates on a 24-hour customer service window. If a business does not respond within this window, a new conversation will incur additional charges. This makes it less suitable for businesses needing follow-up after the 24-hour window.
2. Can WhatsApp Business API make voice calls?
No, the WhatsApp Business API does not support voice or video calls. It is primarily used for messaging services. Voice and video calls are available with WhatsApp Business through a separate feature called WhatsApp Business Calls.
3. How can I apply for WhatsApp Business API?
You can apply for the WhatsApp Business API through a Business Solution Provider (BSP) such as ChatsHero. The application process includes verification via Meta’s Business Manager, and approval must be granted before using the API.
4. Is WhatsApp API suitable for bulk messaging?
Yes, Whatsapp API allows businesses to send bulk messages. However, these messages must comply with Meta's guidelines and undergo a review process. Frequent or unsolicited messaging may lead to account restrictions.