How do I get customers to opt in on WhatsApp?
Meta's rules, and simple ways to collect opt-in that customers actually say yes to.
Before a business messages someone first on WhatsApp, Meta requires that person's opt-in: a clear statement that they agree to receive messages from your business, by name. You can collect it on your website, by SMS, on a call or in person, as long as it's clear, and you must honour opt-outs.
- Say clearly that they'll get WhatsApp messages from your business, by name.
- Website, SMS, phone (IVR) or in person all work.
- Ask separately for offers if you can: it reduces blocks.
- Make opting out easy, and honour it.
Sources: Meta: getting opt-in. Checked 9 October 2026.
What Meta requires
- The person must clearly agree to receive messages from your business.
- The opt-in must name your business.
- You must follow the law where you operate.
- You should explain how to opt out of each kind of message, and honour opt-outs.
Where to collect it
- At booking: a tick box on your booking form: "Send me booking updates on WhatsApp from Sri Clinic."
- At the counter: a line on the bill or a sign with a QR code that opens a chat.
- On your website: a click-to-chat link. A customer who messages you first has started the conversation, and you can reply within 24 hours.
- On the phone: ask, and record the answer.
Separate updates from offers
People happily accept booking reminders but block unwanted offers. Ask for offers separately, and send them only to those who said yes. That protects your number's quality rating.
Make it easy
Free tool: build a WhatsApp click-to-chat link and QR code.
More answers
How do I reduce no-shows with WhatsApp reminders?
Send a WhatsApp reminder before each appointment that the customer can answer in one reply, to confirm or to reschedule, and act on the reply straight away so the freed slot can be rebooked. Use an approved utility template and send it only to customers who agreed to booking updates.
Read the answer How toHow do I auto-reply on WhatsApp after business hours?
On the free WhatsApp Business app, set an away message under business tools to send a fixed reply outside your hours. If you want the question actually answered and the booking made after hours, you need software on the WhatsApp Business API, such as an AI front desk that replies from your own information.
Read the answerKeep every customer smiling.
WAnee answers, books and reminds on WhatsApp and Instagram, from your own information.