How to migrate from WhatsApp Business App to Klaviyo
Learn how to migrate from WhatsApp Business App to Klaviyo.
If your WhatsApp number is associated with a WhatsApp Business App, then migrating to Klaviyo means you'll be moving to the WhatsApp Business API. Klaviyo can migrate your number, but you will be losing these 2 things:
- Access to the WhatsApp Business App UI on mobile.
- Chat history in the app (unless exported manually).
How is the WhatsApp Business API different from the WhatsApp Business App?
The WhatsApp Business App is designed for small businesses and runs on a phone, just like the regular WhatsApp app. It works best for 1 or 2 people managing customer chats directly. While it’s simple to use, it offers only limited automation and does not support advanced integrations.
The WhatsApp Business API (which Klaviyo uses) is built for medium to large businesses. It doesn’t run as a mobile app; instead, it connects to platforms like Klaviyo through the Cloud API. This setup supports automation, integrations, and scaling to larger support or marketing teams. The API is also required for sending template messages, such as order updates, reminders, or promotions.
Before you begin
Before you begin migration, make sure:
- You have access to your WhatsApp Business App.
- You can receive a text message or phone call at the number you want to migrate during setup.
- You’ve exported your chat history if you want to keep it.
- You can log in to Facebook and have admin access to your Meta Business Portfolio. If you don’t have a portfolio, you can create one during setup.
Chat history will not transfer over to WhatsApp API and will be deleted once you deactivate your WhatsApp Business App. Chat history cannot be imported into Klaviyo, but it is recommended to export it for record keeping purposes.
Migrate from WhatsApp Business App
Disable two-step verification
Before deactivating your WhatsApp Business App, turn off two-step verification for your phone number. Follow WhatsApp’s instructions for managing two-step verification.
Deactivate your WhatsApp Business App
Deactivate your current WhatsApp Business App so that your number is free to transfer to WhatsApp API. See Meta’s article on deactivating your account.
Connect your WhatsApp account to Klaviyo
- In Klaviyo, go to Settings > WhatsApp.
- Click Try WhatsApp for free.
- Select I'm using the WhatsApp Business App. If you see Yes, I currently use WhatsApp for business instead, select it and click Continue.
- Follow the preparation prompts, then click Connect to WhatsApp to open Meta’s setup window.
- Follow the instructions in Meta’s setup window. Keep the window open until you finish:
- Create a new WhatsApp Business Account.
- Use the same display name.
- Add the phone number you would like to migrate.
- Verify your phone number using the code sent by text message or phone call.
- Click Finish in Meta’s setup window and wait for Klaviyo to confirm the connection. If Klaviyo shows a Done button, click it to complete the setup.
Next steps
Congratulations! You have migrated to Klaviyo.
Learn how to import your WhatsApp contacts or see how to set up a flow.