WhatsApp Coexistence Embedded Signup: Issues, Causes & Fixes
Jhoan • Jul 9, 2025 • 7 min read
WhatsApp Coexistence is a new feature that lets businesses use the WhatsApp Business App and the WhatsApp Business API together on the same phone number. It’s a powerful upgrade for scaling communication, but since the rollout is recent and governed by Meta’s strict policies, many businesses run into roadblocks during setup and embedded signup.
This guide breaks down the most common problems, why they happen, and how to solve them.
1. Ineligible Phone Number
Problem: Error: “Your phone number isn’t eligible to connect to the WhatsApp Business Platform. More activity on the WhatsApp Business App is needed to help determine eligibility.”
Why it happens:
The number hasn’t been active on the Business App long enough.
Meta requires at least 7 days of consistent activity before allowing API use.
Numbers previously tied to an API account (WABA) may also be flagged.
How to fix it:
Use the app regularly for 7+ days (ideally 1–2 months).
Don’t delete and re-register the number (this resets eligibility).
If the number was linked to a WABA, delete that account, re-register in the app, and wait 1–2 months.
Contact Meta or your Solution Provider (e.g., Wcapi HQ) if the error persists.
2. Unsupported Country or Region
Problem: Signup blocked due to number from unsupported regions (e.g., EU, UK, Australia, Japan, Nigeria, South Korea).
Why it happens: Regional regulations and Meta’s service restrictions.
How to fix it:
Use a number from supported regions (e.g., India, US, Brazil, Indonesia, Mexico, Singapore).
Keep track of updates — Meta may expand availability.
If stuck in an unsupported region, continue with the Business App or use alternate channels until Coexistence is available.
3. Number Previously Used with API
Problem: Numbers linked to an old WABA account cannot be onboarded immediately.
Why it happens: Meta enforces a cooldown period of 1–2 months before re-use.
How to fix it:
Delete the old WABA account.
Re-register the number in the Business App.
Use the app actively for 1–2 months before retrying signup.
Avoid rushing reintegration — Meta may block the number.
4. Chat Sync Failures or Delays
Problem: Chats and contacts (up to 6 months of history) don’t sync fully or take too long.
Why it happens:
Large data volumes.
Weak internet connection.
Business App not kept open.
How to fix it:
Keep the Business App open and connected to stable internet.
Expect sync to take up to 6 hours for large histories.
Restart setup by rescanning the QR code (ensure app version 2.24.17+).
Contact your provider’s support if the issue continues.
5. QR Code Scanning Issues
Problem: QR code fails to appear or doesn’t scan.
Why it happens:
Outdated app version.
Wrong signup flow.
Camera/device problems.
Temporary Meta server issues.
How to fix it:
Update the Business App to v2.24.17+.
Follow the correct path: Settings → WhatsApp → Sign Up with Facebook.
Use a device with a working camera and proper lighting.
Retry or reach out to your Solution Provider for help.
6. Facebook Page Linking Errors
Problem: Can’t link WhatsApp to a Facebook Page.
Why it happens:
No Facebook Page or Business Manager account.
Missing admin permissions.
Account or regional restrictions.
How to fix it:
Create a Facebook Page (Settings → Business Tools → Facebook & Instagram).
Ensure admin access in both the Page and Business Manager.
Verify your Meta Business Account details (legal name, address, website).
Contact Meta or your provider if linking still fails.
7. Disabling Coexistence
Problem: No direct disable option in the API platform.
How to fix it:
In the Business App: Settings → Account → Business Platform → Disconnect.
Avoid uninstalling the app — it may cause re-onboarding issues.
Contact Meta or your provider if you can’t disconnect.
8. Unsupported Companion Devices
Problem: Messages from unsupported companions (e.g., Windows app, WearOS) don’t sync with the API.
Why it happens: Only WhatsApp Web and WhatsApp for Mac are currently supported.
How to fix it:
Re-link supported devices after onboarding.
If you use unsupported companions, messages may show placeholders — switch to a supported platform for syncing.
Watch for future updates as Meta expands device support.
9. Business Name Can’t Be Changed
Problem: Business name is locked after onboarding.
Why it happens: Meta enforces name consistency across platforms.
How to fix it:
Double-check and update your business name in both the Business App and Meta Business Manager before onboarding.
Post-onboarding changes may require Meta intervention (not guaranteed).
Quick Setup Checklist
✔ Use WhatsApp Business App v2.24.17+ ✔ Partner with trusted providers (e.g.,Wcapi Chat, Wati) ✔ Ensure your number has 7+ days of activity and is from a supported country ✔ Back up important data manually before setup (only 6 months of history is synced)
Final Thoughts
WhatsApp Coexistence makes it easier for businesses to move from the Business App to the API without changing numbers. To onboard smoothly, ensure your app is up to date, your number is eligible, and your Meta Business account is properly set up. With these steps in place, you’ll avoid the most common signup headaches.
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