Open Message Templates and click New Template.
Under Setup:
Select the WhatsApp channel.
Enter a unique lowercase name using letters, numbers, and underscores, such as
order_shipped.Select one language.
Under Category, choose Utility.
Under Content:
Optionally add a text, image, video, document, or location header.
Write the message body and insert variables where needed.
Provide realistic sample values for every variable so Meta can review the template correctly.
Optionally add a footer and buttons such as Visit Website, Call Phone Number, or quick replies.
Check the WhatsApp preview.
Click Save Draft if you may leave the page. Otherwise, click Submit for Review, verify the summary, and confirm.
this is how the window will look when you submit it for review:
Wait for Meta to approve it. The template can be used in workflows and broadcasts after approval.
Example:
Hi {{1}}, your order {{2}} has been shipped. Expected delivery: {{3}} Track your order using the button below.
Button: Track order → your tracking URL
Sample values:
{{1}} = Riya {{2}} = SPUR-1042 {{3}} = 12 October 2026
The important policy point: Utility templates must relate to something the recipient initiated or expects—for example, an order update, appointment confirmation, support-ticket update, registration confirmation, or a requested report. Offers, discounts, product recommendations, event invitations, and cold outreach belong under Marketing, even if the wording sounds informational.
Before submitting, check that:
The transaction or customer request is clearly identified.
There is no promotional language.
Every variable has a realistic sample.
The body does not begin or end with a variable.
The selected language matches the message copy.
Links and buttons have a functional purpose.
The template name does not contain spaces or capital letters.
Meta makes the final category and approval decision, so it may recategorize or reject a template that does not clearly demonstrate its transactional context.