What should my WhatsApp welcome message say?
Updated 30 September 2026
Say who you are, when you are open and how to order, in three or four lines with your menu link. The Business app sends it when a customer first writes, and again after 14 days of silence.
- Set it in the Business app under Tools > Greeting message. It needs an internet connection to send.
- Use an away message for closed hours. The “outside of business hours” option works once you have set your hours.
- Give the customer a next step. Meta advises against open-ended welcome messages, and on the API reply buttons offer up to 3 choices.
- If a bot sends it, show a way to reach a person. WhatsApp's policy requires a clear route, such as a phone number.
A welcome that opens your menu
On Menuthere, a customer who sends “Hi” to your number gets an Order Now button that opens your menu already signed in, so the welcome is the start of an order.
Build it in four lines
- 1
Welcome
“Hi, welcome to (your restaurant name).”
- 2
Hours
“We are open (days), (opening time) to (closing time).”
- 3
How to order
“Send your items here, or order from our menu: (menu link).”
- 4
What you need
“Tell us pickup or delivery, and your address or pickup time.”
Next questions
Sources (4)
- How to use greeting messages, WhatsApp Help Center, read 30 September 2026
- How to use away messages, WhatsApp Help Center, read 30 September 2026
- Service messages, Meta for Developers, updated 21 May 2026
- WhatsApp Business Messaging Policy, WhatsApp, last updated 23 September 2026