Using a Phone Number Already Linked to WhatsApp App with WhatsApp Business API

If you're attempting to integrate WhatsApp Business API in eGrow using a phone number that's currently registered with the WhatsApp mobile or Business App, the integration will not succeed. Here's why—and what you can do to resolve it.

What’s the Issue?

• Meta does not allow a phone number to be used simultaneously with the WhatsApp Business API and the mobile WhatsApp or Business App. The number must be exclusively registered in one system at a time.

  Why This Restriction?

  Phone numbers already active on the WhatsApp or Business app cannot be reused immediately for API integration. The number must first be fully removed from the app to free it for API registration.

  Can I link my number back to the WhatsApp mobile app after connecting it to eGrow?
  No, once your number is linked to the WhatsApp Business API via eGrow, it cannot be used again in the WhatsApp or WhatsApp Business mobile apps. Meta does not allow the same number to be active on both platforms simultaneously.

  How to Prepare a Number for API Use.

  Option A: Remove the Number from the App

  1. Open WhatsApp (or Business App) on your device.

  2. Go to Settings → Account → Delete My Account.

  3. Confirm deletion by entering the full phone number in international format.

  4. Wait at least 5 minutes (some sources advise up to 3 minutes, others mention that few minutes suffice) for Meta’s backend to process and release the number.

  Once released, you can proceed to register the number through eGrow’s WhatsApp Business API setup.

  Option B (Preferred): Use a New, Unregistered Phone Number

  • Choose a number that has never been used with any WhatsApp app. This is the safest and easiest route—avoid complications or delays.

    Quick Reference Table

    Situation	What You Should Do
    Number currently in WhatsApp app	1. Delete account in-app → 2. Wait ~5 minutes → 3. Register via eGrow
    Prefer minimal disruption	Use a new number never used with WhatsApp
    Want to switch back to app later	Note: Switching back may take time or pose issues

    Summary Steps for eGrow Users

    1. Option 1: Use a fresh number not yet tied to any WhatsApp app.

    2. Option 2: If reusing a number:

       • Delete it from the WhatsApp app.

       • Wait a few minutes for Meta to clear it.

       • Proceed with API integration in eGrow.

         NB: Meta also provides free phone numbers starting with +1 that you can use for WhatsApp Business API. However, these numbers cannot be activated immediately — they require Meta to approve your Display Name during the registration process. This review usually takes 1–3 days before the number becomes usable.

    3. If you face any issues or delays post-deletion, feel free to reach out to eGrow Support for assistance.

    If you're unsure or hit a snag, don’t hesitate to contact our support team—we’re here to help you complete your integration smoothly!