Get UK Virtual Phone Number for WhatsApp: 3 Methods
Abigail Lewis
Getting a UK WhatsApp number is more than just signing up-it’s a strategic move to connect with the UK market. Whether you’re managing a business, freelancing internationally, or working in a KPO, a local WhatsApp number boosts your credibility and makes communication easier. However, not all options are reliable, and picking the wrong one could lead to verification issues or unexpected costs. It can even lead to legal concerns and may even suspend your WhatsApp account. Your privacy can be compromised, and you may not be able to access all the WhatsApp features.
To make scenarios brighter and safer for you, I have spent over 10 hours digging through platforms, testing virtual number providers, and evaluating WhatsApp verification outcomes. This guide presents the most effective, reliable, and privacy-safe methods so you don’t waste time or money.
Zoho Voice is a cloud-based VoIP phone software that manages business calls from any device or location. This VoIP software has a softphone and web application and makes and receives calls from any device.
Methods to Get UK Number for WhatsApp
Here are the methods I have found helpful in getting a UK WhatsApp number:
Method 1: Use a UK SIM Card to Get UK WhatsApp Number
Buying a UK SIM card is a reliable way to acquire a UK WhatsApp number. You can purchase a prepaid SIM from providers like EE, O2, Vodafone, or Three, either online or at UK retail stores. Once inserted into your phone, activate the SIM and register it on WhatsApp.
While this method provides an authentic UK number, it requires a physical device and, depending on the vendor, may necessitate a UK address. This is ideal for frequent travelers, expatriates, or businesses needing a local UK contact.
Method 2: Use an Online Virtual Number Service (VoIP)
1) Zoho Voice
I needed a UK WhatsApp number for client communications, but local providers made the setup tedious and time-consuming. A colleague suggested I try out Zoho Voice. It lets me instantly purchase a UK virtual number, which I later linked to WhatsApp Business via a verified Twilio integration. The interface was intuitive, and Zoho’s rich documentation made the process smooth. My challenge was verifying the number for WhatsApp, but Zoho’s SIP trunking and clear call logs helped me troubleshoot verification failures effectively.
At one point, call forwarding broke due to an incorrect IVR setup – I resolved it by testing flow routes in Zoho’s sandbox and consulting their support forum. I also had to adjust caller ID formats to meet WhatsApp’s strict verification criteria. What stood out was the seamless call routing, number masking, and reliable VoIP quality. It was ideal for building a professional image while staying compliant with UK communication norms.
Steps:
Step 1) To start with, sign in to Zoho Voice, purchase voice credits from Zoho Store and buy a phone number.
Step 2) After purchasing the phone number, you can assign it directly to your WhatsApp agent. Alternatively, you can route the calls using IVR flow or Call Queue.
Step 3) Finally, add the contact to the Contact List and use Zoho Voice dial pad to access the calling feature.
15-Days Free Trial
2) Nextiva
I needed a UK number for client outreach on WhatsApp but didn’t want to use a second SIM card or give out my personal number. That’s when I came across Nextiva, and it solved the issue with ease. The process was straightforward – I selected a UK number through Nextiva’s platform and integrated it with WhatsApp seamlessly.
Although there was a slight delay in receiving the initial SMS verification from WhatsApp, I was able to resolve it quickly by opting for the voice call verification. What I appreciated most about Nextiva was its robust call management features, including forwarding, IVR, and the flexibility of its cloud-based system. These features offered a professional touch for managing calls and messages without the need for a physical UK address or ID. Nextiva also stood out because of its scalability – whether for personal use or business, it adapted well to my needs.
Steps:
Step 1) I signed up for an account on the Nextiva platform and browsed their available UK number options. The platform provided a variety of choices that suited my needs perfectly.
Step 2) I chose a flexible plan that allowed me to access a UK number immediately. Nextiva’s cloud-based system made the process smooth, and I had my number up and running quickly.
Step 3) After setting up my UK number, I opened WhatsApp and entered the number from Nextiva. When the SMS didn’t arrive, I switched to the voice call option, which quickly provided the verification code.
30-Days Free Trial
3) Avoxi
Setting up a UK WhatsApp number seemed simple, until I hit repeated verification issues with generic VoIP services. That’s when I turned to Avoxi after being referred by my friend. I quickly chose a UK virtual number, verified it through WhatsApp using Avoxi’s instant SMS and voice forwarding, and had it running the same day. Their call analytics also helped me measure the outreach performance.
One hiccup was time zone confusion when scheduling support, but once I adjusted my hours, their help was spot-on. Their expert guidance and professional etiquette helped me manage the secondary UK number for WhatsApp calling purposes.
Steps:
Step 1) Visit Avoxi’s UK Numbers page and select a UK virtual phone number based on your business needs (toll-free, geographic, etc.). Complete the signup and purchase process.
Step 2) Once activated, log into the Avoxi online dashboard to set up call forwarding, voicemail, and routing preferences. Ensure the number supports voice and SMS (needed for WhatsApp verification).
Step 3) Open the WhatsApp Business app and register using the Avoxi UK number. For verification, you can choose either SMS or a voice call. Avoxi’s system allows you to receive the code easily using the method selected.
Link: https://www.avoxi.com/uk-virtual-phone-numbers/
Method 3: Ask a UK-Based Friend or Relative
You can obtain a UK WhatsApp number by asking a UK-based friend or relative to register a new WhatsApp account using their number. After setup, they can transfer the credentials to you, allowing you to use them on your device. However, this method risks exposing their personal account to your communications. A safer alternative is using a dedicated virtual number from providers like Zoho Voice or Nextiva.
How to Get a UK WhatsApp Number from Outside the UK?
Yes, you can obtain a UK WhatsApp number even if you are not physically in the United Kingdom. This is possible through virtual phone number services, also known as VoIP providers, which offer UK numbers online regardless of your location.
However, you must keep in mind that not all virtual number providers support WhatsApp verification. It is necessary to select a provider that can reliably receive SMS or calls for WhatsApp’s verification process. Certain providers may impose a fee for obtaining and maintaining a UK virtual number.
How Secure Is Your Data When Using Third-Party UK Number Services?
When you use third-party UK number services, like virtual phone number providers, you’re sharing your personal data with external companies. How secure your information remains depends largely on the provider’s commitment to data protection laws and the safeguards they have in place.
In the UK, data security is governed primarily by the UK General Data Protection Regulation (UK GDPR) and the Data Protection Act 2018. These laws require that personal data be processed with appropriate security measures. It is important to ensure protection against unauthorized or unlawful processing, accidental loss, destruction, or damage. Providers are responsible for maintaining the confidentiality, integrity, and availability of the data they manage, a principle commonly known as the “CIA triad.”
FAQ
Conclusion
Securing a UK WhatsApp number is now simpler than ever-just ensure you make the right choice. Whether you’re aiming for seamless business operations, expanding your marketing reach, or staying connected with friends and family in the UK, having a UK-based number can enhance communication and credibility. Zoho Voice is a reliable VoIP service that you can use to purchase a UK number and access your WhatsApp account privately and safely.
Zoho Voice is a cloud-based VoIP phone software that manages business calls from any device or location. It also offers features like call blocking, live call monitoring, call transfers, and call queues.
