WhatsApp Welcome Message Sequence API: Ads Integration

Updated At: February 24, 2026
Read Time: 3 Minutes

To create a WhatsApp welcome message sequence, send a POST request to your account endpoint. Include your JSON object with text and quick replies. You need the right app permissions. To use it, link the new sequence ID to your ad.

​Getting leads from ads is hard. Fast replies help. You need a smart system.

The API has strict rules. You cannot delete a sequence linked to an active ad. You will get error code 4027012. You must pause the ad first. We learned this the hard way. This simple fix saves hours of stress.

 

Key Concepts Covered in This Guide

 

  • Core Topic Entity: WhatsApp Welcome Message Sequence API
  • Primary Problem Entity: Ad Click Drop-offs
  • Core Solution Entity: Automated Welcome Flow
  • Supporting Sub-Entities: Webhooks, JSON Object
  • Platform Mentioned: Meta Ads Manager
  • Desired Outcome: Instant Ad Engagement

 

WhatsApp Welcome Message Sequence API works with Click-to-WhatsApp ads integration to solve slow response times and achieve instant lead engagement.

 

Before you build your flow, you must understand how these ads capture leads. Reading WhatsApp Ads- Meta's New Feature Turns Discoveries into Conversations helps you match your ad strategy to your new welcome sequence.

What is the WhatsApp API Sequence Endpoint?

 

​The API endpoint manages your ad messages. You use it to build chat flows.

 

​You must send data to a specific URL. It uses your account ID.

 

  • Create or Change: Send a POST request.
  • View Lists: Send a GET request.
  • Remove: Send a DELETE request.

 

​You must send a JSON object. This object holds your core data. It holds your main text. It holds an autofill_message. It holds your ice_breakers (quick replies). Make sure your app has the whatsapp_business_management permission first. The API returns a sequence_id. Save this ID. You will need it later.

 

​Viewing Your Active Sequences

 

​You can check which flows run on active ads.

 

​Send a GET request to the endpoint. The API will return a list.

 

​This list shows every flow you made. It shows the name. It shows the sequence_id. It also shows a true or false tag. This tag is is_used_in_ad. If it says true, the flow is locked. You cannot delete it.

 

​How to Connect Welcome Messages to Ads

 

​Follow these steps to link your flow. Put your sequence ID to work.

 

​You have two ways to do this. Use the code method or the visual method.

 

  • Marketing API Method: Use the partner_app_welcome_message_flow_id field. Put your new sequence ID in the additional_data block.
  • Ads Manager Step 1: Go to the Ad Creative section. Select "Partner App".
  • Ads Manager Step 2: Click the dropdown menu. Pick your messaging app.
  • Ads Manager Step 3: Find "Message sequence". Select your new flow.
  • Ads Manager Step 4: Preview the chat and save it.

 

​Track Ad Clicks with Webhooks

 

​A webhook fires when a user clicks your ad. It tracks the lead.

 

​When a conversation starts, you get a ping. The WhatsApp webhook trigger sends data.

 

​Look for the messages array. It contains a referral object. This object tells you where the user came from. It shows the source_url. It shows the headline. It shows the ad body. It even shows the new ref field. Use this data to track your ad success.

 

​Fix WhatsApp API Error 4027012 and Others

 

​Many people fail to update their flows. They see red errors.

 

​Do not panic. Most errors are simple typos.

 

  • Error 4027012: The sequence is locked. It is linked to an active ad. Disconnect the sequence from the ad first. Then try to update or delete it.
  • Error 4027001: Invalid input data. You typed something wrong. Check your JSON format.
  • Error 4027005: Unable to create. Check your access token. You might lack permissions.
  • Error 4027010: Missing parameter. You forgot a required field. Check the docs.
  • Error 4027017: Could not load the sequence. It does not exist. Or, your token lacks access.

​Conclusion

 

​The WhatsApp Welcome Message Sequence API is a strong tool. It captures leads fast. Set up your endpoints right. Watch out for active ad locks. Connect your flows smoothly to your ads.

 

​Master your chat ads with WUSeller.We help you build smart ad flows without the hassle. Start for free today.

Frequently Asked Questions

​How do I create a WhatsApp welcome message sequence?

Send a POST request to the API. Use the welcome_message_sequences endpoint. Add your text and buttons in a JSON object. The system will return an ID for your new flow.

How to connect a welcome message to a WhatsApp ad?

Use the Meta Ads Manager. Go to Ad Creative. Select Partner App. Choose your sequence from the menu. You can also use the Marketing API if you write code.

​Why can't I delete my WhatsApp welcome sequence?

The sequence is locked by an active ad. You cannot delete or change a flow if an ad uses it. You must go to Ads Manager. Unlink it from the ad first.

​What is the endpoint for WhatsApp welcome messages?

The endpoint uses your account ID. It is /<WHATSAPP_BUSINESS_ACCOUNT_ID>/welcome_message_sequences. Use this URL for GET, POST, and DELETE calls.

How to fix WhatsApp API error 4027012?

Disconnect the sequence from the active ad. This error means your flow is in use. Go to your ad settings. Remove the sequence from the active ad. Now you can safely update it.