How to Create WhatsApp Message Templates in GoHighLevel
By Marnix Geerkens. Published 2024-08-06. Updated 2026-06-02.
GoHighLevel's WhatsApp template builder lives in Settings under WhatsApp. You name the template, pick a category and language, then build the message with an optional header (image, video, document, or location), a body with custom variables, and an optional footer. Templates go through Meta approval before they can be sent, but once approved they work in bulk actions and automations.
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Summary. WhatsApp message templates in GoHighLevel let you send pre-approved messages to contacts even outside an active conversation window. The builder supports text-only templates as well as richer formats with images, short videos, documents, or a map pin for locations. Custom variables pull in contact data like first name or account details automatically. Approved templates can be triggered manually in conversations, through bulk actions, or as actions inside a workflow.
Steps
Navigate to WhatsApp template settings
Inside your sub-account, go to Settings, then click WhatsApp on the left. Select Templates, then click Create Template.
Name the template and choose category and language
Give the template a clear internal name. Select a category such as Marketing or Utility. Choose the language your message will be written in. These fields are required before you can continue.
Add a header (optional)
Toggle on the header if you want to include an image, video, document, or location. Images and short videos (under 16 MB) work well for product showcases. Location headers require a latitude, longitude, name, and address, which you can get from Google Maps by right-clicking a spot.
Write the body text with variables
Type your main message in the body field. Click Add Variable to insert dynamic fields such as contact first name or account name. A preview on the right shows how the final message will look with sample values filled in.
Add a footer (optional)
The footer appears in a smaller font below the body text. Use it for a sign-off line or a note about the message origin. It is optional and can be left blank.
Submit for Meta approval
Click Create (or Save) to submit the template. Meta reviews it before it can be sent. Approval typically takes a short time. Once approved, the template appears in your list and is available for use.
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Frequently asked questions
Why do WhatsApp templates need Meta approval?
Meta requires all templates to be reviewed to prevent spam and ensure message quality standards are met.
Can I use a template inside a GoHighLevel automation?
Yes. Use the Send WhatsApp Message action in a workflow and select any approved template.
How do I add a location to a WhatsApp template?
Right-click on Google Maps to copy the latitude and longitude, then paste those values along with the location name and address into the template builder.