Every WhatsApp template is reviewed by Meta before it can be sent. This article explains the statuses you'll see and what to do when a template is rejected.
Review timeline
Meta reviews every template before it can be sent — usually within 1–3 business days. Editing an already-approved template returns it to review, so it can't be sent again until Meta re-approves it.
Template statuses
Draft — saved but not yet submitted for review.
Pending — submitted and waiting on Meta's review.
Approved — cleared by Meta and available to send.
You can see each template's status next to its name in the list on Settings → Templates → WhatsApp Templates.
If a template is rejected
Meta rejects templates that don't meet its messaging rules — often for wording, category mismatch, or variable placement. Adjust the content (for example, pick the right category, keep variables inside the text rather than at the start or end), then submit it again for review.
Frequently asked questions
How long does WhatsApp approval take?
Usually 1–3 business days. The template stays in Pending until Meta finishes reviewing it.
Why did editing my approved template stop it from sending?
Any edit to an approved template sends it back to Meta for review, so it returns to Pending until it's approved again.