How to move your WhatsApp to WhatsApp Business without losing chats: 6 steps and what doesn't transfer
You can move your WhatsApp account to WhatsApp Business with the same number and keep your chat history and media. First, back up and save to the phone's address book any contacts you created inside WhatsApp, because those don't transfer yet. Follow the 6 steps in the simulator.
Updated: October 9, 2026
How do I move my WhatsApp to WhatsApp Business?
Back up, update WhatsApp, download WhatsApp Business, accept the terms, pick your same number, tap Continue and Allow to bring chats and media, verify with the 6-digit code and create your business profile.
Do I lose my chats when I switch to WhatsApp Business?
No: the app asks permission to access your chat history and media and brings them over. What you do lose are contacts created inside WhatsApp if you didn't save them to the phone's address book first.
Can I use WhatsApp and WhatsApp Business on the same phone?
Yes, but with different numbers. One number can't be on both apps at the same time.
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Before you start: checklist
The 6 steps
Tap each step or the highlighted button on the phone to move forward.
How to switch in 6 steps
Illustrative recreation based on the WhatsApp Help Center (checked October 9, 2026). Menus can vary by app version and country.
Number requirements
- A mobile or landline number you own that can receive SMS or calls.
- VoIP, toll-free, premium-rate and universal access numbers aren't accepted.
- Turn off call-blocking apps while you register.
- With a landline, tap Call me to get the code; extensions aren't accepted.
What transfers and what doesn't
| Transfers? | |
|---|---|
| Chat history and media | Yes, if you tap Allow |
| Contacts created inside WhatsApp | Not yet: save them to the phone's address book |
| Going back from Business to WhatsApp: catalog and collections | No |
You're on WhatsApp Business: what's next
- Complete your business profile.
- Turn on the greeting message and away message.
- Create your quick replies.
- Follow the complete WhatsApp Business guide.
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Sources
WhatsApp Help Center: move your account to WhatsApp Business · download the app · register · moving between the two apps. Checked October 9, 2026.
Frequently asked questions
Can I go back to regular WhatsApp?
Yes, you can move your account back, but business features like the catalog and collections don't transfer.
Does it work on iPhone and Android?
Yes, WhatsApp Business is available on Android and iPhone.
What if the code doesn't arrive?
Wait for the timer to finish (it can take up to 10 minutes) and request a call. Don't guess the code: you can get locked out for a while.
Will customers notice?
They keep messaging the same number; now they see your business profile.
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