How to get the WhatsApp green tick in 2026
The WhatsApp green tick — officially the 'Official Business Account' badge — is the small verified icon next to a business name on WhatsApp. It signals to customers that Meta has verified the brand, and it measurably improves open rates, reply rates and trust. Unlike Meta's blue ticks on Facebook and Instagram, you can't just pay for it.
This guide walks you through the exact eligibility criteria Meta uses, the documents you need to prepare, the application flow inside Meta Business Manager, common rejection reasons, and how long approval really takes (hint: most articles online are out of date).
What the green tick actually is
Officially called the Official Business Account (OBA) badge, the green tick appears next to your business display name in WhatsApp chats. It tells customers Meta has independently verified your brand — that you are who you say you are. There are two account tiers without the tick: Unverified Business Account and Business Account. OBA is the third, highest tier.
Eligibility — what Meta looks for
Meta evaluates 'notability' — whether your brand has significant external recognition. Strong signals: featured in 3+ major independent news outlets, a Wikipedia page, recognised trademark, large social following, well-known D2C brand. Weak signals: only owned channels (your own blog, social), thin web presence, generic business name. A registered business alone is not enough.
Prerequisites before you apply
1) WhatsApp Business API account active. 2) Meta business verification complete (Business Manager → Security Center). 3) Display name approved and matches your trademark or registered brand. 4) At least one approved message template sent. 5) Public web presence with your brand name (website + active social).
How to apply for the green tick
Inside Meta Business Manager → WhatsApp Manager → Phone Numbers → click your number → Settings → Profile → 'Request verification'. You'll be asked to provide 3 publicly accessible news article URLs that mention your brand (no press releases, no paid content, must be from major independent outlets). Submit and wait.
How long approval takes
Meta states 'up to 30 days' but realistic timelines in 2026 are 2–8 weeks. First-time applications from less notable brands often get rejected; you can re-apply after 30 days. Persistent, well-documented brands usually get approved on the second or third attempt.
Common rejection reasons (and fixes)
Not enough notable press → publish or earn coverage in independent outlets first. Display name doesn't match trademark → fix in WhatsApp Manager before re-applying. Press articles are sponsored content → swap for genuine editorial. New domain age → wait, build coverage, retry. LandinChat customers get help structuring the application as part of onboarding.
Frequently asked questions
Can you pay to get the WhatsApp green tick?
No. Unlike Meta's paid verification on Instagram and Facebook, the WhatsApp green tick can only be earned through notability and the OBA application.
How long does WhatsApp green tick approval take?
Meta says up to 30 days; in practice 2–8 weeks. Less notable brands often need 2–3 attempts.
Do I need the green tick to use the WhatsApp Business API?
No. The API works fully without it. The green tick just adds a verified brand badge for trust.
What documents do I need for the green tick?
Three URLs to independent news articles featuring your brand, plus completed Meta business verification documents (incorporation certificate, business address proof).
Can a BSP guarantee the green tick?
No reputable BSP can guarantee it — Meta makes the final call based on notability. LandinChat helps you prepare the strongest possible application.
Ready to put this into practice?
LandinChat is the official Meta Tech Partner powering WhatsApp marketing for 500+ businesses worldwide. Broadcasts, chatbot, shared inbox, integrations — one flat plan.
See pricing