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What is WhatsApp opt-in?

Opt-in is the customer's explicit agreement to receive messages from a business on WhatsApp, which Meta requires before a business sends any template message. Consent must be collected in a way that names WhatsApp and the type of messages, can be through a website form, an in-chat reply, a QR code, an ad or a checkout, and should be recorded with its source and date.

Updated 29 Aug 2026 · 1 min read

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On this page
  1. Why it matters
  2. In VGraple CRM
  3. Related terms

How a valid opt-in is collected and used

  1. 1Customer gives consent
  2. 2Source and date recorded
  3. 3Template send allowed
  4. 4Opt-out honoured
Meta requires consent before any business-initiated message

Why it matters

Opt-in is the policy foundation and the practical one: people who agreed to hear from you block less, read more and reply more, and blocks are what sink a number. Meta can ask for evidence of consent when reviewing a restricted account, and India's DPDP Act adds a legal reason to keep a record.

In VGraple CRM

Consent is a field on the contact with source and timestamp; it is set automatically by inbound messages (service consent), by keyword replies such as YES, by forms, widget conversations and click-to-WhatsApp ads, and it can be imported with a CSV column. Broadcast eligibility checks marketing consent separately from service consent.

Opt-out, Marketing opt-out preference, Suppressed recipient, and the opt-in guide.

Frequently asked questions

Is a customer messaging me first an opt-in?
For service messages about that conversation, yes. For marketing, Meta expects a clearer consent, such as a YES reply to an explicit question.
Can I import contacts who opted in elsewhere?
Yes, with the consent source and date in the CSV; keep the original record.
Does opt-in expire?
Meta sets no expiry, but sending to people who have not engaged for a long time raises block risk; re-confirm consent for old lists.
GlossaryWhat is WhatsApp opt-out?GlossaryWhat is the Meta marketing opt-out preference?GlossaryWhat is a suppressed recipient?Help CenterOpt-in, STOP/START and Marketing Preferences

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