Understanding Message Delivery Issues on WhatsApp

Uncover the reasons behind undelivered WhatsApp messages. From recipient inactivity to country restrictions, explore the common issues and possible solutions for a seamless messaging experience.

When you send a message on WhatsApp and it appears sent but not actually delivered, a few different things might be happening. Here's a simple breakdown of the most common reasons, along with some solutions you can try.

Common Reasons Your Message Wasn't Delivered

1. The recipient hasn't been online in the last 30 days, and we can't hold messages longer than that.

2. You've been blocked by the person you're trying to message.

3. The recipient is in a country where we can't deliver messages due to restrictions or sanctions.

4. Technical issues like invalid request parameters, integrity errors, or the recipient not accepting the latest Terms of Service and Privacy Policy. If it's the latter, have them click here to accept the terms.

5. Outdated WhatsApp version. Make sure the recipient is using at least the following versions to receive messages:

   • Android: 2.21.15.15

   • SMBA: 2.21.15.15

   • iOS: 2.21.170.4

   • SMBI: 2.21.170.4

   • KaiOS: 2.2130.10

   • Web: 2.2132.6

6. The recipient is part of an experiment.

7. To ensure a high-quality experience for users, we limit how many marketing messages people can receive.

What You Can Do

If your message hasn't been delivered, try these steps:

• Check if they can message you. Make sure the recipient can actually send a message to your WhatsApp business number.

• Ask if you're blocked. Have them check their blocked list to see if your number is there.

• Terms of Service. Make sure they've accepted the most recent terms by directing them to the appropriate settings in their app.

• Update WhatsApp. Encourage them to update their app to the latest version.

Country Restrictions

Certain countries and regions can't use the WhatsApp Business Platform due to sanctions. This includes:

• Not eligible for businesses: Cuba, Iran, North Korea, Syria, and parts of Ukraine (Crimea, Donetsk, Luhansk).

• Not eligible for users to receive messages: The same as above plus, users in Turkey can't receive messages sent via the API, though businesses in Turkey can still use the platform.