In short
How do I remove a WhatsApp account restriction?
You don't need to do anything. WhatsApp says that if you see “Your account is currently restricted” or “Your account may be restricted soon”, the restriction ends automatically after the set time, and you get a notification in WhatsApp when it does.
Why WhatsApp restricts accounts
WhatsApp says a restriction can mean that recent activity on your account shows signs of spam, automated or bulk messaging that breaks its Terms of Service.
WhatsApp also warns that users who try to send spam, automated or bulk messages may have their accounts banned.
What you can't do while restricted
- Start new chats or calls with people you haven't talked to before
- Create new groups or add new members to groups
- Use linked devices: you may also be logged out of some secondary devices
What you can still do
- Keep messaging and calling the people and groups you've talked to before
- Wait it out: the restriction ends automatically, and WhatsApp notifies you when it does
See how long is left
- 1Tap New chat.
- 2Choose someone you haven't chatted with before.
- 3If your account is still restricted, a pop-up shows how much time is left.
If you see a different message
- “This account can't use WhatsApp”: that's a ban, not a restriction. See WhatsApp account banned.
- “Account locked due to inactivity”: register your phone number on WhatsApp again as soon as possible. Otherwise WhatsApp says the account and all its data may be deleted.
- Your business lost its verified badge: WhatsApp says that alone isn't an account restriction and doesn't limit how you use WhatsApp.
What doesn't help
- Paying someone who promises to lift the restriction: it ends on its own after the set time
- Sending bulk or automated messages to catch up: WhatsApp warns this can get the account banned
- Switching to an unofficial WhatsApp app: using one can lead to a temporary ban
Frequently asked questions
How long does a WhatsApp restriction last?
WhatsApp doesn't publish one fixed length. To see the time left, tap New chat and choose someone you haven't chatted with before: while the account is restricted, a pop-up shows how much time remains.
Can I request a review of a restriction?
WhatsApp's page on restricted accounts says you don't need to take any action, because the restriction ends automatically. Review requests are for banned accounts, from the ban message in the app.
Can I still talk to my contacts?
Yes, with the people and groups you've already chatted with or called. What's limited is starting new chats and calls, creating groups, adding group members and using linked devices.
Official sources
The platforms' own help and policy pages. We are not affiliated with them.