Too Long? Read This First ● A virtual number for WhatsApp is a cloud-based phone number that activates a WhatsApp account without a physical SIM card. ● With AiSensy, you can get a WhatsApp virtual number at ₹2,000 + GST per year, which is ₹166/month billed annually. It is an Indian mobile number used to procure and connect the WhatsApp Business API. ● AiSensy only provides Indian WhatsApp Virtual numbers, meaning numbers that start with country code +91. If you are looking for an international virtual WhatsApp number, we recommend using another virtual number provider. |
Your search for an affordable WhatsApp Virtual number ends here!
In this guide, we'll explain what a virtual number for WhatsApp is, how to get one, how much they cost & how to apply for the WhatsApp API using your indian WhatsApp virtual number.
Setting up the WhatsApp Business API for the first time? Start with our Ultimate Guide to WhatsApp Business API.
What Is a Virtual Phone Number for WhatsApp?
Depending on the number and the WhatsApp product you're using, a virtual WhatsApp number can be used for:
- Keeping personal and professional communication separate
- Setting up WhatsApp Business API
- 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
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However, not every virtual phone number for WhatsApp 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.
Does WhatsApp Accept Virtual Numbers in 2026?
Yes. WhatsApp does not require a SIM card. It requires a number that can receive the verification code, and a virtual number does exactly that.
WhatsApp has blocked large ranges of shared numbers that belong to disposable OTP (One Time Password) services. Many people met that block and concluded that virtual numbers had stopped working.
Dedicated virtual numbers still verify normally. Mobile-grade numbers receive the code by text message. Landline and toll-free numbers verify through the voice call option, where WhatsApp reads the code out to you.
Which Number Fits which WhatsApp Product?
WhatsApp has three products, and each one asks more of the number than the last.
| WhatsApp product | What you want to do | What to look for |
|---|---|---|
| Regular WhatsApp | Use a separate number for chats | A dedicated number that supports WhatsApp verification |
| WhatsApp Business app | Talk to customers from a business number | A dedicated number you can keep for the long term |
| WhatsApp Business Platform | Run broadcasts, chatbots, integrations and automated notifications | A number compatible with the platform, plus business verification |
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:
| Number type | What it is | What to check |
|---|---|---|
| Virtual mobile number | A cloud-based mobile number that works without a physical SIM. | Confirm it supports WhatsApp verification and stays dedicated to you. |
| VoIP number | A number that handles calls over the internet. | WhatsApp compatibility varies. Check eligibility and whether it can receive verification by SMS or call. |
| Temporary or disposable number | A short-term number that may be shared or recycled. | Avoid it for long-term business use. Losing the number can make account recovery difficult. |
| Business Platform-compatible number | A number eligible for the WhatsApp Business Platform, which supports broadcasts, automation, chatbots and integrations. | Confirm compatibility with your provider before buying. |
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.
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.
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: Match Your WhatsApp Virtual Number to Your Goal
Your goal decides which WhatsApp virtual number you buy, so start with one question: what will you use WhatsApp for?
| Your goal | WhatsApp product | Number you need |
|---|---|---|
| A second number for personal chats | Regular WhatsApp | Any dedicated virtual mobile number |
| A business number for one-to-one customer chats | WhatsApp Business app | A dedicated number you keep long term |
| Broadcasts, chatbots and automated notifications | WhatsApp Business API | An API-compatible number from an official provider |
Two terms to know:
- Dedicated number: a number that only you use.
- API-compatible number: a number an official provider can connect to the WhatsApp Business API.
Buying for the WhatsApp Business API? Skip to "How to Set Up WhatsApp With a Virtual Number" below for the exact AiSensy steps.
Step 2: Shortlist a Provider for Your Virtual Number
A provider is the company that issues your virtual number for WhatsApp. Where you buy depends on your goal:
- Personal chats: a consumer second-number app.
- WhatsApp Business app: a cloud telephony provider.
- WhatsApp Business API: an official WhatsApp Business Solution Provider, such as AiSensy.
With AiSensy, an Indian virtual number costs ₹2,000 + GST (Goods and Services Tax) per year. The price covers the number only, and the number works only with the WhatsApp Business API.
Whichever provider you choose, confirm these five points:
- It offers numbers in your country.
- The number belongs to you alone.
- The number receives a WhatsApp code by text message or voice call.
- The plan states how long you keep the number.
- The price and inclusions are listed clearly.
You are done when: one provider meets every point for your product.
Step 3: Buy Your WhatsApp Virtual Number
Open the provider's site, select your country and choose a number. Then complete the payment.
Pick a permanent plan over a trial. A trial number returns to the provider when the trial ends, and the WhatsApp account linked to it goes with it.
You are done when: the WhatsApp virtual number shows as active in your provider dashboard.
Step 4: Verify Your Virtual Number on WhatsApp
Virtual number WhatsApp verification links the number to your account.
- Open WhatsApp or the WhatsApp Business app.
- Select your country code and enter the virtual number.
- Choose text message, or voice call for a landline or toll-free number.
- Open your provider dashboard and read the six-digit code.
- Enter the code in WhatsApp.
For the WhatsApp Business API, your provider guides this step during onboarding.
You are done when: WhatsApp opens your new account.
Step 5: Set Up Your Account and Keep the Number Active
Complete your profile, so customers recognise your business:
- Business name
- Business description
- Profile image
- Business category
- Customer support details
Then keep your provider plan renewed. An active virtual number for WhatsApp lets you recover the account whenever you need to.
How to Get a WhatsApp Business API Number With AiSensy
If your goal is marketing, automation, or support at scale, AiSensy's virtual number is provisioned for exactly that setup.
The number costs ₹2,000 + GST per year, which works out to ₹166/month billed annually. It is an Indian mobile number used to procure and connect the WhatsApp Business Platform.
Step 1: Purchase the virtual number
Buy the AiSensy virtual number and complete the payment.
Step 2: Complete KYC
Keep your business documents ready for the KYC process. Our guide to WhatsApp KYC verification lists exactly which documents Meta accepts and how long each stage takes.
Step 3: Book your onboarding call
After purchase, you receive instructions to schedule an onboarding call with the AiSensy team.
Step 4: Get your number activated
During onboarding, the team hands over the number and walks you through the WhatsApp Business Platform setup.
This stage also covers Facebook Business ID verification, which Meta requires before your number can send at full volume.
Step 5: Connect the number to WhatsApp Business Platform
Once approval completes, connect the number to your AiSensy account and start messaging customers at scale.
Two things are worth doing right after activation. Set a clear display name for your WhatsApp Business API account, then apply for the WhatsApp green tick so customers recognise the number as official.
How to Verify a Virtual Number on WhatsApp
Verification confirms that the virtual number for WhatsApp belongs to you. WhatsApp sends a six-digit code to the number by text message or voice call.
Before you buy a WhatsApp virtual number, check that:
- You have access to the number
- The number receives a text message or voice call code
- The number is free of any earlier WhatsApp registration
- The number is dedicated to you for the long term
- The number matches the WhatsApp product you plan to use
The WhatsApp Business API adds two more checks. You submit business documents for WhatsApp KYC verification, and Meta completes Facebook Business ID verification before your number sends at full volume.
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 teams running automated notifications 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. Our guide on how to recover abandoned carts with WhatsApp covers the timing and message sequence in full.
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, reached only 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.
Each of these needs 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.
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.
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
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
Q. Does WhatsApp still allow virtual numbers in 2026?
Yes. WhatsApp verifies the number rather than the SIM card, so any number that receives the SMS or voice code can register an account. WhatsApp has blocked ranges belonging to disposable OTP services, which is why shared and recycled numbers fail while dedicated virtual numbers continue to verify normally.
Q. Can I get a virtual number for WhatsApp for free?
Free options exist, with real limits. Public OTP receiving sites use shared numbers that have been registered many times already, so verification usually fails and incoming codes are visible to anyone on the page. Free trials from paid providers give you a dedicated number that verifies, but you lose the number and the WhatsApp account attached to it once the trial ends. With AiSensy, an Indian virtual number costs ₹2,000 + GST per year.
Q. How do I get a US virtual number for WhatsApp?
Choose a provider that issues US mobile-grade numbers rather than landline or toll-free numbers, since mobile ranges receive the WhatsApp SMS code reliably. Buy a dedicated number, enter it during WhatsApp registration with the +1 country code, then collect the six-digit code from your provider dashboard. If SMS does not arrive, use the voice call option instead.
Q. How do I get a foreign number for WhatsApp?
Choose a provider that issues numbers in the country you want, buy a dedicated number in that range, then enter it during WhatsApp registration with the matching country code. One caution applies for business use: a foreign country code lowers answer rates with local customers, so match the code to the market you actually sell in.
Q. How can I buy a WhatsApp virtual number in India?
Buy from a provider that issues Indian mobile numbers and supports your intended WhatsApp setup. Check four things before paying: whether the number is dedicated to you, which verification method it receives, how long you keep it, and what KYC documents are required. With AiSensy, the Indian virtual number costs ₹2,000 + GST per year and is purchased as part of the WhatsApp Business Platform setup, with onboarding handled by the team.
Q. What is the cost of a WhatsApp virtual number?
Cost depends on the country, the number type, and whether you need it for regular WhatsApp or the WhatsApp Business Platform. Consumer second-number apps run from roughly $1 to $10 per month. With AiSensy, an Indian virtual number for the WhatsApp Business Platform costs ₹2,000 + GST per year, which works out to approximately ₹166/month billed annually.
Q. Do I need GST to buy a virtual number for WhatsApp?
You do not need a GST registration of your own to buy one. GST is charged on top of the price, so an AiSensy virtual number at ₹2,000 per year is billed as ₹2,000 plus applicable GST. Business documents are a separate requirement and come up during KYC, not at purchase.
Q. Which providers offer virtual phone number services for WhatsApp?
Providers fall into three groups. Consumer second-number apps sell numbers for personal WhatsApp. Cloud telephony platforms sell business VoIP lines. Official WhatsApp Business Solution Providers, including AiSensy, supply numbers built to connect to the WhatsApp Business Platform. Pick the group that matches your goal, because a consumer app number will not pass platform onboarding.
Q. Can WhatsApp give me a virtual number?
No. WhatsApp does not issue phone numbers. It only verifies numbers you bring to it. Get the number from a virtual number provider or an official WhatsApp Business Solution Provider, then verify it inside WhatsApp. AiSensy supplies an Indian number provisioned for the WhatsApp Business Platform.
Q. Can I use a virtual number for personal WhatsApp?
Most dedicated virtual mobile numbers work for personal WhatsApp, since WhatsApp verifies the number rather than the SIM behind it. Shared and temporary numbers are the ones that fail. AiSensy's virtual number is provisioned for the WhatsApp Business Platform, so it procures and connects the platform rather than registering a personal or WhatsApp Business app account.
Q. Can I run two WhatsApp accounts on one phone with a virtual number?
Yes. Install WhatsApp on your personal number and WhatsApp Business on the virtual number, and both run side by side as separate apps. Newer WhatsApp versions also support account switching inside a single app. Either way, each account needs its own number.
Q. Can I use the same number for WhatsApp and WhatsApp Business?
No. A number registers on one app at a time, so the same number cannot run both WhatsApp and WhatsApp Business simultaneously. This is why businesses buy a second number, keeping the personal account on the original SIM and the business account on a virtual number.
Q. Can I move my existing WhatsApp account to a virtual number?
Yes. WhatsApp includes a Change Number feature that carries your chats, groups, and settings across to a new number. Verify the virtual number first, then run the change from Settings, Account, Change Number. Notify your contacts, because your old number stops receiving your messages afterwards.