---
title: "WhatsApp Message Template Examples: 40+ to Copy and Adapt"
description: "WhatsApp message template examples for marketing, utility and authentication: 40+ copy-paste templates with variables, buttons, Meta categories and approval tips."
canonical: "https://omnichannels.ai/blog/whatsapp-message-template-examples/"
language: "en"
updated: "2026-11-03"
publisher: "BroadNet Technologies"
brand: "OmniChannels.ai"
category: "whatsapp"
primaryQuery: "whatsapp message template examples"
keywords: ["whatsapp template examples", "whatsapp business template samples", "whatsapp utility template examples", "whatsapp marketing template examples", "whatsapp authentication template", "whatsapp template format", "whatsapp template variables", "whatsapp template rejected"]
published: "2026-11-03"
author: "OmniChannels.ai Editorial Team"
reviewer: "BroadNet Messaging Solutions Team"
readingMinutes: 11
answer: "A WhatsApp message template is a pre-approved message you can send outside the 24-hour customer service window. Each one belongs to a Meta category: marketing, utility or authentication. Good examples have one purpose, fixed text around every variable such as {{1}}, realistic sample values and, where useful, buttons. This guide gives 40+ templates grouped by category and industry. Meta decides the category and approval, so none is guaranteed."
takeaways: ["Every template carries a Meta category. Marketing is the default for mixed or unclear content, utility is for non-promotional updates about something the customer requested, and authentication is for one-time passcodes only.", "Meta's documented limits are 1,024 characters for the body, 60 for a text header and 60 for a footer, with button labels capped at 25 characters.", "A template cannot start or end with a variable, variables must be numbered in sequence, and you must supply a sample value for each one.", "A single promotional line can turn a utility template into a marketing one, so keep offers in separate marketing templates sent only to opted-in customers.", "Treat every example here as a starting point. Meta reviews the actual content, and approval is never guaranteed."]
faq: 
  - q: "What is a WhatsApp message template?"
    a: "A WhatsApp message template is a message format with fixed text and optional variables that Meta must approve before you can send it. Templates are required to start a conversation or to message a customer after the 24-hour customer service window has closed. Each template has a category, a language, a body and optional header, footer and buttons."
  - q: "How many characters can a WhatsApp template have?"
    a: "According to Meta's template components documentation, the body allows a maximum of 1,024 characters, a text header 60 characters and a footer 60 characters. Quick reply, URL and phone button labels are limited to 25 characters. Limits can change, so check Meta's documentation when you build or submit a template."
  - q: "Why was my WhatsApp template rejected?"
    a: "Common causes in Meta's documentation include variables that are not numbered in sequence, a template that starts or ends with a variable, missing sample values, requests for sensitive identifiers, abusive or spam-like content, and a body that duplicates an existing template. Fix the cause shown in WhatsApp Manager and resubmit, or request a review if you disagree."
  - q: "Can I send a promotion in a utility template?"
    a: "No. A utility template must be non-promotional. Since 9 April 2025 Meta approves a utility template it judges to be marketing as a marketing template instead of rejecting it, so you pay marketing rates and need marketing opt-in. Keep offers in a separate marketing template to avoid recategorization."
  - q: "How long does template approval take?"
    a: "Meta's documentation says a review can take up to 24 hours, and many templates are decided faster. Do not schedule a campaign against a template that is still pending. Submit templates a few days before launch so you have time to fix a rejection."
  - q: "Do I need opt-in to send a marketing template?"
    a: "Yes. Meta's opt-in rules require that the person gave you their number and permission to receive messages from your business, that you name the business they are opting in to, and that you give clear opt-out instructions. The opt-in can be collected by SMS, a website, an IVR call or on paper."
sources: 
  - title: "Template components, WhatsApp Business Platform, Meta for Developers"
    url: "https://developers.facebook.com/documentation/business-messaging/whatsapp/templates/components"
  - title: "Template review, Meta for Developers"
    url: "https://developers.facebook.com/documentation/business-messaging/whatsapp/templates/template-review"
  - title: "Template categorization, Meta for Developers"
    url: "https://developers.facebook.com/documentation/business-messaging/whatsapp/templates/template-categorization"
  - title: "Authentication templates, Meta for Developers"
    url: "https://developers.facebook.com/docs/whatsapp/business-management-api/authentication-templates"
  - title: "Obtaining user opt-in, Meta for Developers"
    url: "https://developers.facebook.com/documentation/business-messaging/whatsapp/getting-opt-in"
---

# WhatsApp Message Template Examples: 40+ to Copy and Adapt

Canonical: https://omnichannels.ai/blog/whatsapp-message-template-examples/
Language: en
Publisher: OmniChannels.ai by BroadNet Technologies

This guide is for marketers, support leads and developers who need WhatsApp message templates they can adapt today. You get more than 40 examples grouped by Meta category and industry, the rules that decide approval, and a before-and-after fix. It is not a promise of approval: Meta reviews the content you actually submit.

## What is a WhatsApp message template?

A WhatsApp message template is a message format with fixed text and optional variables that Meta approves in advance, so a business can message customers outside the 24-hour [customer service window](/glossary/customer-service-window/). Inside the window you can send free-form messages; outside it, only approved templates.

Each template has a name, a language, a category, a body, and optionally a header, footer and buttons. Meta states these limits in its components documentation:

| Component | Limit |
|---|---|
| Body | 1,024 characters, required |
| Text header | 60 characters, one variable |
| Footer | 60 characters |
| Button label (quick reply, URL, phone) | 25 characters |
| URL buttons | Up to 2, one variable at the end of the URL |
| Phone number button | One per template |
| Copy code button | One per template |

Preview how a draft looks with our [WhatsApp template preview](/tools/whatsapp-template-preview/), and see all three categories explained in [our template categories guide](/blog/whatsapp-template-categories-approval/).

## How should you read the examples?

Each example shows the category, the body with variables written as {{1}}, {{2}} and a button suggestion. Replace the bracketed ideas with your own data and always submit realistic sample values, for example a real-looking order number rather than "test".

Three conventions apply to all of them:

- **Category is a label, not a choice.** Meta decides the final category from the content.
- **One purpose per template.** Offers never ride along in utility templates.
- **Marketing templates need opt-in.** Include an opt-out path such as a "Stop promotions" quick reply.

## What are the rules for writing templates that get approved?

Approval comes from a clear purpose, correct category and clean formatting. Meta's review documentation lists the following checks.

1. Number variables in sequence ({{1}}, {{2}}, {{3}}) with no gaps.
2. Do not start or end the body with a variable. Open with a greeting word and close with a sentence.
3. Do not put special characters such as #, $ or % inside a variable.
4. Give a sample value for every variable.
5. Do not request sensitive identifiers. Asking for the last four digits of a number is allowed.
6. Do not copy the body and footer of an existing template.
7. Keep a sensible ratio of text to variables so the reviewer understands the message.
8. Write each language as its own template. Meta does not translate templates for you.

Review decisions can take up to 24 hours according to Meta, so submit early.

## Which utility template examples work?

Utility templates are non-promotional updates tied to an order, booking, account or transaction the customer started. They suit confirmations, reminders and status changes.

### Retail and e-commerce (utility)

1. **Order confirmation.** "Hi {{1}}, thank you for your order {{2}}. We will message you when it ships." Button: URL "View order".
2. **Shipped.** "Hi {{1}}, your order {{2}} has shipped with {{3}}. Estimated delivery is {{4}}. Use the button to track it." Button: URL "Track order".
3. **Out for delivery.** "Hi {{1}}, your order {{2}} is out for delivery today. Please keep your phone nearby." Button: phone "Call courier".
4. **Delivery attempt failed.** "Hi {{1}}, we could not deliver order {{2}} today. Choose a new delivery time below." Buttons: quick replies "Tomorrow morning", "Tomorrow evening".
5. **Cash on delivery confirmation.** "Hi {{1}}, please confirm your cash on delivery order {{2}} for delivery on {{3}}." Buttons: quick replies "Confirm", "Cancel". See [COD confirmation on WhatsApp](/blog/cod-order-confirmation-whatsapp/).
6. **Refund processed.** "Hi {{1}}, your refund for order {{2}} has been processed. It may take a few business days to appear with your bank."
7. **Payment received.** "Hi {{1}}, we received your payment for invoice {{2}}. Your receipt is attached." Header: document.

### Appointments, clinics and services (utility)

8. **Booking confirmed.** "Hi {{1}}, your appointment with {{2}} is confirmed for {{3}} at {{4}}." Buttons: quick replies "Reschedule", "Cancel".
9. **Reminder.** "Hi {{1}}, this is a reminder of your appointment tomorrow at {{2}}. Please arrive 10 minutes early." Button: URL "Get directions".
10. **Rescheduled.** "Hi {{1}}, your appointment has been moved to {{2}} at {{3}}. Reply below if this does not suit you." Button: quick reply "Need another time".
11. **Results ready.** "Hi {{1}}, your documents are ready. Open the secure link to view them." Button: URL "Open documents".
12. **Service visit window.** "Hi {{1}}, our technician {{2}} will visit between {{3}} and {{4}}."

For health and insurance data, send a link to a secure page rather than details in the message; see [healthcare patient messaging](/blog/healthcare-patient-messaging/) and [appointment reminders](/blog/appointment-reminders-whatsapp-sms/).

### Banking, support and account notices (utility)

13. **Ticket created.** "Hi {{1}}, we received your request {{2}}. An agent will reply within {{3}}."
14. **Ticket resolved.** "Hi {{1}}, request {{2}} is marked as resolved. If anything is still wrong, reply to this message." Button: quick reply "Still need help".
15. **Security alert.** "Hi {{1}}, a new sign-in to your account was detected on {{2}}. If this was not you, secure your account now." Button: URL "Secure account".
16. **Card or account notice.** "Hi {{1}}, your {{2}} will expire on {{3}}. Update your details through the official app."
17. **Renewal notice.** "Hi {{1}}, your subscription renews on {{2}}. You can manage it from your account." Button: URL "Manage subscription".
18. **Booking change (travel and hotels).** "Hi {{1}}, your booking {{2}} has a new check-in time of {{3}}." Button: URL "View booking".
19. **Delay notice.** "Hi {{1}}, your booking {{2}} is delayed. New time: {{3}}. We apologise for the change."

## Which marketing template examples work?

Marketing templates cover promotions, product news, re-engagement and relationship messages. Meta classifies anything promotional, mixed or unclear as marketing, and you need opt-in from every recipient.

### Retail and e-commerce (marketing)

20. **Welcome after opt-in.** "Hi {{1}}, welcome to {{2}}. You will get new arrivals and offers here. Reply below any time to stop." Button: quick reply "Stop promotions".
21. **New arrivals.** "Hi {{1}}, our new {{2}} collection is in store and online. Take a look." Header: image. Button: URL "Shop now".
22. **Flash sale.** "Hi {{1}}, our sale on {{2}} ends {{3}}. Use code {{4}} at checkout." Button: URL "Shop the sale".
23. **Abandoned cart.** "Hi {{1}}, you left {{2}} in your basket. Your cart is saved if you want to finish your order." Button: URL "Return to cart". See [WhatsApp abandoned cart recovery](/blog/whatsapp-abandoned-cart-recovery/).
24. **Back in stock.** "Hi {{1}}, {{2}} is back in stock. Quantities are limited." Button: URL "View item".
25. **Birthday offer.** "Happy birthday {{1}}. Enjoy {{2}} on your next order this month." Button: URL "Claim offer".
26. **Win-back.** "Hi {{1}}, it has been a while. Here is something for your next visit: {{2}}." Buttons: URL "See offer", quick reply "Stop promotions".
27. **Loyalty reminder.** "Hi {{1}}, you have {{2}} points that expire on {{3}}. Redeem them before then." Button: URL "Redeem points".

### Services, real estate, education and events (marketing)

28. **Event invitation.** "Hi {{1}}, you are invited to {{2}} on {{3}}. Reserve your place below." Buttons: quick replies "I will attend", "Not this time".
29. **Webinar reminder.** "Hi {{1}}, our session on {{2}} starts at {{3}}. Join here when it begins." Button: URL "Join session".
30. **New listing.** "Hi {{1}}, a new property matching your search just listed in {{2}}. See photos and details." Header: image. Buttons: URL "View listing", quick reply "Book a viewing". See [real estate lead follow-up](/blog/real-estate-lead-follow-up-whatsapp/).
31. **Clinic check-up recall.** "Hi {{1}}, it is time for your routine {{2}}. Book a slot that suits you." Button: URL "Book now".
32. **Course enrolment.** "Hi {{1}}, enrolment for {{2}} is open until {{3}}." Buttons: URL "View course", phone "Call admissions".
33. **Restaurant offer.** "Hi {{1}}, enjoy {{2}} at {{3}} this week. Reserve a table below." Button: URL "Reserve".
34. **Ramadan and Eid greetings.** "Ramadan Kareem {{1}}. This month we are open {{2}}, and our special menu is available now." Button: URL "See menu". See [Ramadan campaigns in the GCC](/blog/ramadan-messaging-campaigns-gcc/).
35. **Feedback request.** "Hi {{1}}, how was your visit to {{2}}? Your answer helps us improve." Buttons: quick replies "Great", "Okay", "Poor". Meta can treat feedback requests as marketing when they are not tied to a service update, so submit as marketing unless advised otherwise.
36. **Referral.** "Hi {{1}}, share your link {{2}} with a friend and you both get a reward." Button: URL "Share link".

Where offers have a deadline or a copyable discount code, Meta offers limited-time offer and copy-code components; check the components documentation before using them.

## What do authentication templates look like?

Authentication templates are for one-time passcodes only and use Meta's fixed text. You cannot add URLs, media or emojis, and the code parameter is limited to 15 characters. According to Meta, you add a copy-code, one-tap or zero-tap button and may add an optional security line and expiry line.

37. **Login code (Meta's preset text, so the variable-position rule above does not apply).** "{{1}} is your verification code." Optional: "For your security, do not share this code." Button: copy code.
38. **One-tap autofill.** Same preset text with a one-tap button for the Android app.
39. **Zero-tap.** Same preset text; the app completes verification without the user tapping. It needs Android app work.
40. **Code with expiry.** Preset text with "This code expires in {{2}} minutes."

For design and fallback to SMS, read our [OTP authentication guide](/blog/otp-authentication-messages-guide/) and [WhatsApp OTP vs SMS OTP](/blog/whatsapp-otp-vs-sms-otp/).

## How do you fix a template that Meta rejects or recategorizes?

Start with the reason shown in WhatsApp Manager, then compare your draft with the rules above. A worked example shows the typical repair.

**Draft submitted as utility:** "{{1}} your order {{2}} is ready! Save 20% on your next order with code SAVE20. Shop now at {{3}}"

Problems: it starts and ends with a variable, it mixes an update with a promotion, and the URL sits in the body.

**Repaired utility template:** "Hi {{1}}, your order {{2}} is ready for collection. Show this message at the counter." Button: URL "View order".

**Separate marketing template:** "Hi {{1}}, thanks for your order. Use code {{2}} on your next purchase before {{3}}." Button: URL "Shop now". Send it only to opted-in customers.

If Meta changes a category after approval, you can request a review in WhatsApp Manager; the steps are in [our approval guide](/blog/whatsapp-template-categories-approval/).

## Which mistakes and limits should you plan for?

- **Pretending marketing is utility.** Repeated misuse can lead to rate limiting and restrictions, according to Meta's categorization documentation.
- **Over-using variables.** Bodies that are mostly placeholders are hard to review.
- **Sensitive data.** Never put full card numbers, passwords or medical details in a message.
- **No opt-out.** Marketing messages need clear opt-out instructions under Meta's opt-in rules.
- **Ignoring frequency.** Meta may cap how many marketing templates a person receives, and error 131049 reports a blocked delivery; see our [broadcast guide](/blog/whatsapp-broadcast-message-guide/).
- **Skipping local law.** Consent and content rules differ by country. This guide is not legal advice.

## How OmniChannels.ai helps

OmniChannels.ai lets you build WhatsApp templates for marketing, utility and authentication with variables, media and buttons, preview them on a phone layout and track approval status. Approved templates go straight into [campaigns](/platform/campaigns/) or automated flows, and our team can prepare WhatsApp Business onboarding with you. Browse more ideas in our [template library](/templates/) and the [message templates tool](/tools/message-templates/), then book a demo to see it with your own use cases.