> ## Documentation Index
> Fetch the complete documentation index at: https://docs.trama.so/llms.txt
> Use this file to discover all available pages before exploring further.
# Connect WhatsApp
> This is the initial setup for the number where your Trama agent will live. The process happens inside Trama, but the pop-up window you see belongs to…
This is the initial setup for the number where your Trama agent will live. The process happens inside Trama, but the pop-up window you see belongs to Meta. You'll log in with Facebook, choose or create your Business Portfolio, and verify the number by SMS or call.
## What you need
* A new phone number (recommended) or an existing number you want to dedicate to the agent
* A personal Facebook account (for verification)
* Ability to receive an SMS or call on that number at that moment
* 10-15 minutes
## Before you start
* **Use a dedicated number.** It's the simplest approach. You avoid disrupting your current WhatsApp and the agent stays isolated from your daily operation.
* **You don't need another permanent device.** The SIM or eSIM is only used to receive the verification code. Afterwards, the number stays connected to Meta's cloud.
* **If you already use that number on WhatsApp or WhatsApp Business, prepare to migrate it.** Meta may ask you to unlink it from the app before completing the connection. If you don't want to touch your current number, use a new one.
* **Have your basic business details handy.** Business name, website or Instagram, and category. Meta usually asks for them during onboarding.
## Step by step
**1. Get a new number**
Buy a new prepaid SIM from any carrier. The cheapest one you can find. You only need it to receive a verification code. After that, you don't need the physical SIM anymore (the number lives in the cloud).
SIM cost: approximately \$2-3 USD.
**2. Activate the SIM**
Put it in any phone, make sure it can receive an SMS, and remove it. You don't need to install it in your main phone.
**3. Go to Trama and click "Connect WhatsApp"**
From the Trama platform, click "Connect WhatsApp". A Meta pop-up window will open. If your browser blocks pop-ups, enable them and try again.
**4. Log in with Facebook**
Meta asks you to log in with your personal Facebook account. This doesn't post anything to your profile. It's only used to confirm your identity and let you manage your business assets.
**5. Create or choose your Business Portfolio**
If you already have a Meta business account, choose it. If you don't have one, Meta guides you to create it right then. It's free.
At this point you'll typically see fields like:
* Business name
* Website or business profile
* Country or time zone
* Business category
**6. Create the WhatsApp Business account**
Meta will ask you to confirm the display name for the WhatsApp account and some basic company details. That name is what gets associated with the agent's number.
Practical tip: use a clear name that's recognizable to travelers, for example `Roma Travels` or `Roma Travel Agency`.
**7. Enter the number**
Type the number with country code. For the US, it's typically `+1`. Double-check it before continuing. If the number was already in another WhatsApp Business Platform account, Meta may stop you until it's been released.
**8. Choose how to receive the code**
Meta usually offers verification by SMS or by call. Choose whichever option is easier for you at that moment. If the SMS doesn't arrive quickly, wait a bit before resending to avoid blocking the attempt.
**9. Enter the verification code**
Enter the 6-digit code Meta sent you. If everything goes well, the number gets linked and Trama completes the connection automatically.
**10. Return to Trama and wait for confirmation**
When the Meta window closes or shows that the process is complete, go back to Trama. The platform should show you the connected number, ready to start receiving conversations.
## What you'll see inside the Meta window
Although it may vary slightly depending on your country or if you already have assets created, the flow is usually this:
1. Facebook login.
2. Permissions screen for Trama to manage the WhatsApp connection.
3. Selection or creation of the Business Portfolio.
4. WhatsApp Business account registration.
5. Number entry and verification.
6. Final confirmation screen.
If any screen doesn't match exactly, that's fine. The important thing is to follow the flow until Meta confirms the number and you return to Trama.