WhatsApp Templates for Outbound Messages — Setup and Approval

<h2>The 24-Hour Window</h2><p>With Cloud API, you can send messages to customers who have messaged you within the last 24 hours for <strong>free</strong>. Outside of this window, you need to use an <em>approved template</em> — this prevents WhatsApp from becoming a spam vehicle.</p><h3>Creating Templates</h3><ol><li>In Meta Business Manager → WhatsApp Manager → <strong>Message Templates</strong></li><li>Click "Create" → choose category:<ul><li><strong>Marketing</strong> — promotions, offers (€0.07/chat)</li><li><strong>Utility</strong> — appointments, reminders, status updates (€0.05/chat)</li><li><strong>Authentication</strong> — OTP/codes (€0.02/chat)</li></ul></li><li>Write the body with variables <code>{{1}}</code>, <code>{{2}}</code>, etc.</li><li>Add an optional header (text/image) + footer + buttons</li><li>Submit for review — Meta will approve or reject within 24-48 hours</li></ol><h3>Examples — Copy and Adapt</h3><h4>Quote Sent</h4><pre>Hi {{1}}, your quote for {{2}} is ready! View it here: {{3}} Valid until {{4}}. Questions? Just reply here.</pre><h4>Appointment Reminder</h4><pre>Hi {{1}}, a quick reminder: tomorrow {{2}} at {{3}}. See you then! Reply with "Reschedule" if it doesn't fit.</pre><h4>Review Request After Project</h4><pre>{{1}}, thanks for letting us work on your {{2}}. Got 30 seconds to review us on Google? → {{3}}</pre><h3>Tips for Fast Approval</h3><ul><li>Avoid using ALL-CAPS</li><li>No "click here" — use a concrete CTA</li><li>No URL shorteners (bit.ly, goo.gl)</li><li>Variables can be up to 50% of the message</li></ul>