How many variables can I use in the WhatsApp template body, and can I use variables in the footer?

Quick answer

There is no hard limit on the number of placeholders (variables) you can add in the body of a WhatsApp template, as long as the combined text + variables stays within 1024 characters.
No, WhatsApp does not allow variables (placeholders like {{1}}) in the footer section of a template.

1 — How many variables can I use in the body of the template?

1.1 What is a Variable?

A variable is a placeholder used to insert dynamic content into a template. They are written as {{1}}, {{2}}, {{3}}, and so on.

Example template:

Hi {{1}}, your order {{2}} from {{3}} has been shipped. Track it here: {{4}}

Filled message:

Hi Riya, your order #4812 from ZapKart has been shipped. Track here: zap.link/track4812

1.2 Common Use Cases

You can use {{1}}, {{2}}, {{3}}, ... as long as the total body (text + variables) stays within 1024 characters.

Variables are perfect for personalising messages at scale, such as:

Customer name
Order ID
Brand/store name
Tracking link
Date/time

1.3 Best Practices

Variables must be numbered sequentially: {{1}}, {{2}}, {{3}}, …
Do not skip or repeat variable numbers.
Always have a proper value mapped against the variables.
Always preview and populate variables during template submission for Meta approval.
Variables are allowed only in the body — not in the footer or button text.

1.4 Validation Rules

Templates with missing or out-of-sequence variables will be rejected.
Only 1 variable is allowed in the Header if you select "Text". Variables can't be added in the Header if you select an image, video, or document.

TipKeep variable usage minimal and meaningful — overloading templates with 10+ placeholders often hinders readability and increases the risk of rejection.

2 — Can I use variables in the footer?

2.1 What Is the Footer Used For?

The footer is an optional section meant only for static, supporting text, such as:

Legal disclaimers
Company names or taglines
Contact notes (e.g., "Customer Service" or "T&C apply")

2.2 Footer Limitations

Maximum 60 characters
No variables, formatting, or media allowed
Must be static text only

WarningIf you insert a variable in the footer, your template will be rejected by Meta during review.

2.3 Where Can I Use Variables?

Variables are allowed only in:

Body section → within the character limit of 1024 (includes variables and text).

Example: Hi {{1}}, your order {{2}} is ready.

Header → Only 1 variable in the header if you choose the "Text" option.
URL buttons → inside query strings.

Example: https://track.com/{{1}}

2.4 WhatsApp Template Sections — Variables & Limitations

Section	Variables Allowed?
Header	Limited — Only 1 allowed in Text header; media headers support file upload only (no variables).
Body	Yes — Within 1024 characters; variables must be sequential; supports formatting (bold, italics, emojis).
Footer	No — Max 60 characters; static text only (no variables, formatting, or media).

TipUse the footer for static trust-building text (e.g., "This is an automated message from ZapKart") while keeping all personalisation in the body.

Updated on: 18/01/2026