WhatsApp Business API pricing overview

A concise summary of how WhatsApp Business API pricing works, so you can plan your messaging strategy and avoid surprises on your bill.

A conversation-based model

Meta charges per conversation rather than per message. There are a few key components to understand before getting started.

1. Service conversations (often free)

When a customer messages you first, a 24-hour service window opens during which you can reply freely.

• No charge for replies within the 24-hour service window.
• The Rasilni Professional plan includes 1,000 free service conversations per month worldwide.
• After 24 hours, you re-engage using an approved message template.

2. Message templates (marketing conversations)

Templates are pre-approved formats for proactive notifications outside the 24-hour window, reminders, confirmations, shipping updates, and promotions.

• Templates must be approved by Meta before use.
• Marketing conversations are charged per conversation.
• Rates vary by country and conversation category.

3. Country rate cards

Pricing is set by country-specific rate cards based on the recipient's country and conversation type.

• Rates differ significantly between countries.
• High-volume markets often have lower per-conversation rates.
• Current rate cards are published by Meta and updated periodically.

4. Conversation categories

• Service: customer-initiated; 1,000 free/month with your plan.
• Marketing: business-initiated promotions; charged per conversation.
• Utility: transactional, like order confirmations and delivery updates.
• Authentication: OTP and verification messages.

Pay as you go

Beyond your free tier, the API is flexible pay-as-you-go (with contract packages available for high volume). Meta charges per conversation by type and country; Rasilni adds your monthly plan fee on top, and everything is consolidated into a single monthly invoice.