Too Long? Read This First ● A virtual number for WhatsApp is a cloud-based phone number that doesn't require a physical SIM card. ● The right number depends on your use case. A number for regular WhatsApp may have different requirements from one used with WhatsApp Business or the WhatsApp Business Platform. ● Free and temporary numbers can be unreliable for long-term WhatsApp use because number ownership, verification, and account recovery can become difficult. ● For WhatsApp Business Platform, you need a compatible number and must complete the required business verification and onboarding process. ● With AiSensy, a WhatsApp virtual number costs ₹2,000 plus GST per year (₹166/month when billed annually). The number is an Indian mobile number and is used to procure and connect the WhatsApp Business Platform. ● The basic process is: choose the right type of number, purchase it, complete verification, then connect it to the WhatsApp service you want to use. |
A virtual number for WhatsApp is a cloud-based phone number that works without a physical SIM card.
It can help you keep your personal number separate from business communication, while businesses can use compatible virtual numbers to connect with WhatsApp Business and the WhatsApp Business Platform.
But getting the right virtual number depends on what you want to use WhatsApp for.
If you need a number for regular WhatsApp use, the setup can be different from getting a number for WhatsApp Business or the WhatsApp Business Platform (API).
In this guide, we'll explain what a virtual number for WhatsApp is, how to get one, how verification works, what free virtual numbers can and can't do, how much they cost, and how to choose the right provider.
If you're specifically looking for a virtual number to use with the WhatsApp Business Platform, our Ultimate Guide to WhatsApp Business API explains how the platform works and what you need to get started
What Is a Virtual Phone Number for WhatsApp?
A virtual phone number for WhatsApp is a phone number that exists digitally rather than through a physical SIM card.
Instead of being tied to a traditional SIM in your phone, the number is provisioned through a virtual-number or cloud-communication provider.
For businesses, a virtual number can provide a separate number for customer communication without exposing a personal mobile number.
Depending on the number and the WhatsApp product you're using, a virtual number can be used for:
- Keeping personal and professional communication separate
- Setting up WhatsApp Business
- Connecting a compatible number to the WhatsApp Business Platform
- Managing customer conversations at scale
- Running automated customer communication
- Connecting WhatsApp with business tools and workflows
However, not every virtual number works in the same way.
Some are designed for short-term verification, some are VoIP-based, and others are provisioned specifically for business communication and API use.
That's why it's important to understand what you need the number for before buying one.
Types of Virtual Numbers for WhatsApp
Not every virtual number works the same way.
The type you choose can affect whether you can verify it on WhatsApp, how long you can keep using it, and whether it's suitable for WhatsApp Business Platform.
Here are the most common types you'll come across:
1. Virtual Mobile Number
A virtual mobile number is a cloud-based phone number that doesn't require a physical SIM card.
It can be used remotely and, depending on the provider and setup, may support WhatsApp verification.
For businesses, a dedicated virtual mobile number can be useful when you want to separate your WhatsApp communication from a personal phone number.
2. VoIP Number
A VoIP number works through internet-based telephony rather than a traditional mobile network.
VoIP numbers can be useful for business communication, but WhatsApp compatibility can vary.
Before purchasing one, check whether the number can be used for the WhatsApp setup you need and whether it supports the required verification process.
3. Temporary or Disposable Number
A temporary virtual number is typically provided for a short period and may be used for one-time verification or short-term communication.
These numbers can be risky for WhatsApp because they may be shared, recycled, or unavailable later. If you lose access to the number, recovering the WhatsApp account associated with it can become difficult.
Temporary numbers are therefore not a good choice for long-term business communication.
4. WhatsApp Business Platform-Compatible Number
A WhatsApp Business Platform-compatible number is a number that can be connected to the platform for business messaging at scale.
Businesses can use this setup for:
- WhatsApp broadcasts
- Automated notifications
- Chatbots
- Customer support
- Click-to-WhatsApp Ads
- CRM and other business integrations
If you're setting up WhatsApp Business Platform, don't assume that every virtual or VoIP number will work. Confirm compatibility with your provider before purchasing.
Which Type of Virtual Number Should You Choose?
The right choice depends on what you want to do with WhatsApp:
| Your goal | Number to consider |
|---|---|
| Keep your personal number separate | Dedicated virtual mobile number |
| Use internet-based business calling | VoIP number, if compatible with your WhatsApp setup |
| Complete short-term verification | Temporary number, with its limitations in mind |
| Run WhatsApp Business Platform at scale | WhatsApp Business Platform-compatible number |
For long-term business use, prioritize a number you can reliably access and retain rather than a temporary number chosen only because it's cheap or free.
Can You Use a Virtual Number on WhatsApp?
Yes, a virtual number can be used with WhatsApp in supported setups, but the requirements depend on which WhatsApp product you want to use.
1. Regular WhatsApp
If you're trying to create a regular WhatsApp account with a virtual number, the number needs to be accepted for WhatsApp verification and must be able to receive the required verification code or call.
Temporary, shared, or recycled numbers can create problems because you may not have reliable long-term access to the number.
2. WhatsApp Business App
Businesses can use WhatsApp Business to communicate with customers from a dedicated business number rather than their personal number.
The important consideration is still number ownership and verification. You should choose a number that you can reliably maintain and access over the long term.
3. WhatsApp Business Platform
The WhatsApp Business Platform is designed for businesses that need to communicate with customers at scale through features such as automation, broadcasts, chatbots, integrations, and customer-support workflows.
This is where a WhatsApp Business API-compatible virtual number becomes particularly useful.
With AiSensy's virtual number, for example, the number is specifically intended for procuring and connecting the WhatsApp Business Platform. It cannot be used to create a regular personal WhatsApp account or for other purposes outside that setup.
So, which virtual number do you need?
It completely depends on your goal:
| What you want to do | What to look for |
|---|---|
| Use a separate number for WhatsApp | A reliable number that supports WhatsApp verification |
| Use WhatsApp for business communication | A dedicated business number you can maintain |
| Automate customer conversations | A number compatible with the WhatsApp Business Platform |
| Run broadcasts, chatbots, integrations and automated notifications | A WhatsApp Business Platform/API-compatible number |
If your goal is WhatsApp Business Platform, don't simply buy the cheapest virtual number you can find.
Check whether the number is compatible with the platform, can complete the required verification, and can be retained for long-term business use.
After purchasing the virtual number, follow the steps below to take your WhatsApp API live with AiSensy.
How to Get a Virtual Number for WhatsApp
Getting a virtual number for WhatsApp usually involves choosing a provider, purchasing a number, verifying it with WhatsApp, and setting it up for the WhatsApp product you want to use.
The exact process depends on whether you need the number for regular WhatsApp, WhatsApp Business, or the WhatsApp Business Platform.
Step 1: Decide how you want to use the number
Before buying a virtual number, decide what you actually need it for.
If you only want a separate number for WhatsApp communication, you need a number that can complete WhatsApp's verification process.
If you're setting up WhatsApp Business Platform for your company, you need a number that is compatible with the platform and can be connected through an official provider.
For businesses, this decision matters because not every temporary or VoIP number is suitable for long-term WhatsApp Business use.
Step 2: Choose a reliable virtual number provider
Look for a provider that offers:
- A number in the country you need
- Reliable access to the number
- Support for the required verification method
- Clear ownership and retention terms
- WhatsApp Business Platform compatibility, if required
- Transparent pricing
- Support for KYC or business verification where applicable
Avoid choosing a provider based only on the lowest price. A number that stops working, gets recycled, or cannot complete verification can create bigger problems later.
Step 3: Purchase your virtual number
Once you've chosen a provider, select the country and number you need and complete the purchase.
Before paying, check whether the number is:
- Permanent or temporary
- Dedicated or shared
- Suitable for your intended WhatsApp setup
- Capable of receiving the required verification code or call
- Retainable for long-term business use
If you're buying the number specifically for WhatsApp Business Platform, confirm that the provider supports that use case before purchasing.
Step 4: Complete WhatsApp verification
Enter your virtual number when prompted by the WhatsApp setup process.
WhatsApp will send a verification code through the supported verification method. Enter the code to confirm that you have access to the number.
If verification fails, don't keep retrying randomly.
First check whether the number is supported, whether the provider can receive the verification message or call, and whether the number has already been registered with another WhatsApp account.
Step 5: Set up your WhatsApp account
Once your number is verified, complete your WhatsApp profile or business setup.
For a business account, this can include:
- Business name
- Business description
- Profile image
- Business category
- Customer-support details
If you're using the WhatsApp Business Platform, the next step is to connect the number to your business account and complete the required onboarding.
Step 6: Keep access to the number
Don't treat the number as a one-time OTP tool.
If you plan to use it for business communication, make sure you can retain access to the number and recover the account if necessary.
This is one of the biggest differences between a reliable business number and a temporary virtual number.
How to Get a WhatsApp Business API Number With AiSensy
If your goal is to use WhatsApp Business Platform for marketing, automation, customer support, or other business workflows, AiSensy's virtual number for WhatsApp is specifically designed for this setup.
With AiSensy, the virtual number costs ₹2,000 + GST per year, which works out to ₹166/month when billed annually.
The number is an Indian mobile number and is intended specifically for procuring and connecting the WhatsApp Business Platform.
It cannot be used to create a regular personal WhatsApp account.
Here's how the AiSensy setup works:
Step 1: Purchase the virtual number
Buy the AiSensy virtual number and complete the payment process.
Step 2: Complete KYC
Keep the required business documents ready for the KYC process.
Step 3: Book your onboarding call
After purchasing the number, you'll receive instructions to schedule your onboarding call with the AiSensy team.
Step 4: Get your number activated
During the onboarding process, the AiSensy team hands over the virtual number and guides you through the WhatsApp Business Platform setup.
Step 5: Connect your number to WhatsApp Business Platform
Once the setup and approval process is complete, connect the number to your AiSensy account and start using WhatsApp for business communication at scale.
[Buy a WhatsApp Virtual Number @ ₹166/month]
How to Verify a Virtual Number on WhatsApp
Verification is one of the most important steps when setting up a virtual number.
The number you purchase must be able to receive the verification method supported by your WhatsApp setup.
Depending on the setup, this can involve an SMS or voice call.
Before purchasing a virtual number, check that:
- You have access to the number
- The number can receive the required verification method
- The number isn't already being used by another WhatsApp account
- The number isn't a temporary or recycled number you're unlikely to retain
- The number is compatible with your intended WhatsApp setup
For WhatsApp Business Platform, there may also be additional business verification and onboarding requirements.
What if I don't receive the WhatsApp OTP?
If the verification code doesn't arrive, check the following:
1. Check the number format
Make sure you've selected the correct country code and entered the complete number correctly.
2. Check whether the provider supports WhatsApp verification
Some virtual-number services are not suitable for WhatsApp verification.
3. Try the available verification method
If SMS isn't working and voice verification is available for your setup, you may be able to use a verification call instead.
4. Check whether the number is already registered
A recycled or previously used number may already be associated with a WhatsApp account.
5. Contact your provider
If the number cannot receive the verification message or call, the provider needs to resolve the issue.
The safest approach is to choose a number you can reliably access and retain, rather than relying on a disposable number only for receiving an OTP.
Why Use a Virtual Number for WhatsApp?
A virtual number can be useful when you want a dedicated number for WhatsApp without tying your business communication to your personal phone number or physical SIM.
Here are some of the main reasons businesses use one:
1. Keep personal and business communication separate
A dedicated number lets you handle customer conversations without sharing your personal WhatsApp number with customers.
2. Give your business a dedicated number
A separate business number makes it easier to build a consistent communication channel that isn't dependent on an employee's personal number.
3. Support business communication at scale
When paired with the WhatsApp Business API, a compatible number can be used for automated notifications, broadcasts, chatbots, customer support, and other business workflows.
4. Maintain access without relying on one physical device
Because the number is provisioned virtually, businesses can manage their WhatsApp setup without depending on a physical SIM in a particular phone.
The benefits you get ultimately depend on the type of virtual number you choose and how you plan to use it.
How Much Does a Virtual Number for WhatsApp Cost?
The cost of a virtual number for WhatsApp varies depending on the country, number type, provider, verification support, and whether you need it for regular WhatsApp or the WhatsApp Business Platform.
Temporary or basic virtual numbers may cost less, while dedicated numbers with long-term access, business onboarding, or WhatsApp Business Platform support can cost more.
Before comparing prices, check what is included in the plan:
- Number rental or annual subscription
- SMS or voice verification support
- Number ownership and retention
- WhatsApp Business Platform compatibility
- KYC and onboarding support
- Business messaging or API setup
How much does an AiSensy virtual number cost?
With AiSensy, an Indian virtual number for WhatsApp Business Platform costs ₹2,000 + GST per year, which works out to approximately ₹166/month when billed annually.
The number is intended specifically for connecting to the WhatsApp Business Platform. AiSensy also provides onboarding support to help businesses complete the setup.
Important: The cost of the virtual number is separate from any other WhatsApp Business Platform or messaging charges that may apply to your business.
How to Choose a Virtual Number Provider for WhatsApp
Choosing a virtual number isn't just about finding the cheapest option.
The number needs to work for your intended WhatsApp setup and remain accessible for as long as you need it.
Before buying, check these factors:
1. WhatsApp compatibility
Make sure the number supports the WhatsApp product you want to use, whether that's regular WhatsApp, WhatsApp Business, or the WhatsApp Business Platform.
2. Verification support
Check whether the number can receive the verification method required for your setup, such as SMS or a voice call where supported.
3. Number ownership and retention
Choose a provider that clearly explains how long you can keep the number and what happens if you stop paying or cancel the service.
Losing access to the number can make account recovery difficult.
4. Dedicated vs shared numbers
A dedicated number gives you more control than a number shared between multiple users or customers.
Avoid temporary or recycled numbers for important business accounts.
5. Country and local presence
If you're communicating with customers in a specific market, consider a number with the appropriate country code.
For businesses targeting Indian customers, an Indian number can provide a more familiar local presence.
6. WhatsApp Business Platform compatibility
If your goal is automation, broadcasts, chatbots, customer support, or other WhatsApp Business Platform workflows, confirm that the provider supports the platform before purchasing the number.
7. Pricing and support
Look beyond the advertised monthly or annual price. Check what's included in the subscription, whether onboarding or KYC support is available, and what happens if you face verification or account-setup issues.
In short, choose a number you can verify, access, and retain - not simply the cheapest number available.
If you're looking for an Indian virtual number specifically for WhatsApp Business Platform, AiSensy offers one with onboarding support and a yearly plan.
Who should buy a virtual number for WhatsApp?
Businesses buy a virtual number for WhatsApp when they want the WhatsApp Business API without tying it to a personal SIM.
The most common cases are D2C brands recovering abandoned carts, edtech companies chasing incomplete applications, and any team that wants automated notifications running on a number nobody has to carry in their pocket.
1. D2C and ecommerce: recovering abandoned carts
Skullcandy runs abandoned cart recovery on WhatsApp with AiSensy and reduced abandoned carts by 45 to 60%.
The Hatke, an online phone accessories store, cut abandoned carts by 40% and reported 21x ROI on the channel.
The setup is the same in both cases: a virtual number connected to the WhatsApp Business API, with an automated reminder sent 15 to 20 minutes after a customer leaves items in the cart.
2. Edtech and education: recovering dropped applications
NMIMS, a university with over 17,000 students, recovered 45 to 60% of dropped-off applications using WhatsApp reminders through AiSensy.
PhysicsWallah drove 3x more leads on the same channel.
3. Retail and manufacturing: reaching customers who never saved your number
Cosco, one of India's largest sports equipment manufacturers, could only reach 35% of its audience through email and the WhatsApp Business app, which caps broadcasts at 256 contacts.
On the official API through a virtual number, Cosco reached its full customer base and drove 3x more conversions.
If you want to buy a WhatsApp number for any of these, you need two things: a virtual number, and an official WhatsApp Business API provider to connect it to. AiSensy sells both together, at ₹166/month, billed annually at ₹2,000 plus GST.
Why choose AiSensy for a WhatsApp virtual phone number?
If you want a reliable and affordable platform to get a WhatsApp virtual number and access the official WhatsApp Business API, AiSensy is a trusted choice for businesses of all sizes.
- Official WhatsApp Business API Partner
- Fast onboarding with quick API activation
- Dedicated support for easy setup & verification
- Transparent pricing starting at just ₹166/month
- Trusted by 210,000+ businesses globally
- Easy WhatsApp automation, broadcasts, and customer support management
- No technical expertise required to get started
How to use a WhatsApp virtual phone number for your business
There are so many more ways WhatsApp can benefit your business. Check out some more amazing Use Cases of WhatsApp for your business:
1. Shoot Promotional WhatsApp Broadcasts to Unlimited users in one go
Send non-transactional messages like discount offers, promotions on festivals, product launch messages, season-end-sale & much more to boost your business’ sales & conversions.
Add clickable CTA & Quick Reply Buttons to make your promotional messages more actionable with AiSensy.
See these WhatsApp promotional message examples for ideas you can use in your next campaign.
Read: 14 WhatsApp Promotional messages examples
2. Automate notifications on WhatsApp
Use WhatsApp for Business to automate notifications for multiple events like orders, shipping, delivery, abandoned carts & more to users via integration.
Basically, you can set up automated notifications that will be sent to a user's WhatsApp whenever they trigger an event. E.g. order confirmation notifications/delivery updates.
Now, whenever a user buys a product, they will receive a confirmation on WhatsApp. Similarly, if they add an item to their cart & don't check out, they'll receive an Abandoned Cart notification reminding them to complete their purchase.
3. Run Direct to WhatsApp Ads
A major benefit here is that when a user lands on your WhatsApp, you'll instantly get their name & Mobile number (without having them fill out tiring forms).
You have a 3x better chance of converting a user by getting them on WhatsApp than on your landing page.
4. Integrate WhatsApp Chatbot to automate Sales & Support
A WhatsApp Chatbot responds like a human agent, understanding & responding to queries instantly.
Also, it can show personalized recommendations, helping users find the right product & complete sales without human intervention.
You can easily create WhatsApp Chatbot in 10 minutes without coding expertise with AiSensy's Chatbot flow builder.
There are so many more ways WhatsApp can benefit your business.
Check out some more amazing Use Cases of WhatsApp for your business.
Conclusion
A WhatsApp Virtual number is the safest thing you can purchase to protect your privacy, increase your accessibility & message your audiences globally.
Whether you're a startup or an enterprise, choosing the right virtual number for WhatsApp Business API ensures effective communication, automation, and scalability for your business.
We hope you got to know how to get a WhatsApp Virtual number from this blog.
If you liked it, share it with those you feel will benefit from this information.
Get started with AiSensy today and buy your WhatsApp virtual number to automate your business communication effortlessly.
Below are a few resources which we believe you'll find useful👇
Ultimate Guide to WhatsApp Business API
Top 10 WhatsApp Business API Benefits every Marketer must know
WhatsApp for Business: 10 Effective tools & strategies
Top 12 WhatsApp Business API Use Cases
WhatsApp Virtual Number FAQs
You can get a virtual number from a virtual-number or business communication provider that supports your intended WhatsApp setup. Before purchasing, check the number's WhatsApp compatibility, verification method, long-term retention, and any KYC requirements.
If you need a number specifically for the WhatsApp Business Platform, choose a provider that supports the required business onboarding. With AiSensy, the Indian virtual number is purchased as part of the WhatsApp Business Platform setup and the team guides you through onboarding.
KYC requirements depend on the provider and the type of WhatsApp setup you're using. For an Indian virtual number intended for the WhatsApp Business Platform, you may need to provide business or identity documents during onboarding.
Check the provider's current KYC requirements before purchasing.
The cost depends on the country, number type, provider, verification support, and whether you need the number for regular WhatsApp or the WhatsApp Business Platform.
With AiSensy, an Indian virtual number for WhatsApp Business Platform costs ₹2,000 + GST per year, which works out to approximately ₹166/month when billed annually.
There is generally no meaningful difference between the two terms. Both refer to a phone number provisioned digitally rather than through a traditional physical SIM.
However, how the number can be used depends on the provider, number type, and WhatsApp setup. Some numbers may support WhatsApp verification, while others are specifically provisioned for WhatsApp Business Platform.
Different virtual-number and business communication providers offer numbers that may support WhatsApp.
Before buying, check whether the number is compatible with the WhatsApp setup you need, supports the required verification method, and can be retained for long-term use.
If you need the WhatsApp Business Platform, also confirm that the provider supports that setup. AiSensy offers an Indian virtual number specifically for connecting to the WhatsApp Business Platform, with onboarding support.
Some services offer free or temporary virtual numbers, but they may come with limitations such as shared numbers, unreliable verification, number recycling, or limited long-term access.
If you're setting up WhatsApp for business, a dedicated number that you can reliably access and retain is generally a better option.
With AiSensy, an Indian virtual number for WhatsApp Business Platform costs ₹2,000 + GST per year.
A virtual number can be safe to use when it comes from a reliable provider and you can maintain access to the number long term.
Before purchasing, check how the number is provisioned, whether it supports your intended WhatsApp setup, how verification works, and whether you can retain the number for account recovery and ongoing use.
If you're using the WhatsApp Business Platform, also make sure the provider supports the required business onboarding and verification process.
It depends on the type of virtual number and the provider. Some virtual numbers may support WhatsApp verification, while others are specifically provisioned for WhatsApp Business Platform.
AiSensy's virtual number is specifically designed for WhatsApp Business Platform and cannot be used for personal WhatsApp or the regular WhatsApp Business app.
The timeline depends on the provider, verification requirements, and the WhatsApp setup you're using.
With AiSensy, the virtual number is handed over during the onboarding call, and the team guides you through the WhatsApp Business Platform setup and approval process.
Not necessarily. The amount of technical setup depends on the provider and how you plan to use the number.
If you're connecting the number to the WhatsApp Business Platform, there may be onboarding and business verification steps to complete. With AiSensy, the team guides you through the WhatsApp Business Platform setup during onboarding.
A compatible virtual number can be connected to the WhatsApp Business Platform and used for business communication at scale.
Businesses can use it for promotional broadcasts, automated order and delivery notifications, abandoned-cart messages, Click-to-WhatsApp Ads, customer support, chatbots and automation, and CRM and other business integrations.
No. WhatsApp does not issue virtual phone numbers.
You need to obtain a number from a virtual-number or business communication provider and then check whether it is compatible with the WhatsApp setup you want to use.
If you need a number specifically for the WhatsApp Business Platform, choose a provider that supports the required business onboarding and number setup. AiSensy offers an Indian virtual number specifically for connecting to the WhatsApp Business Platform.
A virtual number is not inherently illegal. However, the provider, number provisioning, and how you use the number must comply with applicable telecom requirements and WhatsApp policies.
If you're buying a number for business use in India, choose a compliant provider and complete any required KYC or business verification.
No. WhatsApp requires a phone number for account verification.
Depending on the setup and provider, a compatible virtual number may be used instead of a traditional physical SIM number.
For WhatsApp, the important difference isn't simply whether the number is virtual or physical. A virtual number is provisioned digitally through a cloud or telecom provider instead of through a traditional physical SIM. A regular phone number is typically issued through a mobile operator and linked to a physical SIM or eSIM.
What matters is whether the number is compatible with the WhatsApp product you want to use and whether you can reliably access and retain it.