What is an Official Business Account?
An Official Business Account (OBA) is a WhatsApp number on the Business Platform that Meta has reviewed and confirmed as an authentic business. Customers see a verified badge next to the business name in chats and in the contact info. In Bangladesh this is still widely called the "green tick", although Meta now displays a blue check.
Meta's documentation (checked October 2026) lists five requirements:
- the business follows the WhatsApp Business Messaging Policy,
- it has been on the WhatsApp Business Platform for at least 30 days,
- the business portfolio has passed Meta Business Verification,
- two-step verification is turned on for the number,
- the number's display name is approved.
You submit the request in WhatsApp Manager or through your provider. Meta decides, and it can say no; after a rejection you must wait 30 days before asking again. Older guidance also asked for proof of notability, such as news coverage, but Meta's current page no longer lists it. Meta also offers a separate Meta Verified subscription in some markets, with its own terms.
Why does it matter for sellers in Bangladesh?
Fake pages copying real brands are common in f-commerce. A verified badge tells customers they are talking to the real shop before they send an advance or share an address. But most small sellers do not need it to grow. A clear display name, a verified business, a good quality rating and fast replies matter more day to day.
Example
A fashion brand with outlets in Dhaka and Chattogram has used the WhatsApp Business Platform for two months. It completes business verification, enables two-step verification, gets its display name approved and requests an OBA. After approval, customers see the badge beside the brand name in every chat.
Related terms
Meta Business Verification, WABA, quality rating.
See how SaleMag connects an official WhatsApp Business API number.
Frequently asked questions
Is the 'green tick' still green?
Meta now shows verified businesses on WhatsApp with a blue check. Many people in Bangladesh still call it the green tick.
Can a small Facebook shop get an OBA?
Yes, it can apply once it meets Meta's five requirements. Meta's current documentation does not list news coverage as a requirement, but approval is still Meta's decision.
What happens if Meta rejects my OBA request?
You must wait 30 days before submitting another request.
Does the verified badge improve delivery or limits?
The badge shows trust; messaging limits depend on verification, quality and volume. An OBA is not required to sell on WhatsApp.
About the author
WhatsApp & F-commerce automation, Dhaka
The Dhaka team that builds SaleMag, the AI sales inbox for WhatsApp, Messenger and Instagram used by online sellers in Bangladesh.