Is there any size limit on the media files attached in WhatsApp Template Messages?
Warning : WhatsApp enforces strict file size limits for media in template messages. Exceeding these limits will result in template rejection or API errors.
🗂 Supported Media Types & Size Limits
Media Type | Max File Size | Recommended Specs | Remarks |
|---|---|---|---|
Image (JPEG, PNG) | Up to 5 MB | Aspect ratio: 1.91:1 or 1:1 | Commonly used in header media |
Sticker (WebP) | Up to 500 KB | Square, 512x512 px recommended | For template headers only |
Video (MP4) | Up to 16 MB | H.264 codec, AAC audio | Accepted as header media |
Audio (AAC, MP4, AMR, OPUS) | Up to 16 MB | AAC/MP4 recommended | Limited to standalone messages, not headers |
Document (PDF, DOC, PPT, etc.) | Up to 100 MB | PDFs preferred for compatibility | Can be included in header |
⚠️ What Happens If You Exceed the Limit?
- Template Rejection: Meta will reject your submission during approval.
- API Error Response: The Cloud API will throw a media size error.
Example Error Response:
{
"error": {
"message": "Media file size too large",
"type": "OAuthException",
"code": 131051,
"error_subcode": 2494010,
"fbtrace_id": "AbCdEf123456"
}
}
✅ Best Practices
- Images & Stickers: Keep images under 5 MB, WebP under 500 KB.
- Videos: Compress to ≤16 MB using H.264/AAC.
- Documents: ≤100 MB, PDFs preferred.
- Audio: Ensure ≤16 MB and proper encoding (AAC recommended).
- Always preview: Test media before submitting the template.
🖼 Visual Infographic: WhatsApp Media Size Limits
📚 References
- Meta Developers – WhatsApp Cloud API: Media Reference
- Trengo – Conditions for WhatsApp Templates
- Clickatell – WhatsApp Media File Limits
- Netcore – WhatsApp Template Image Specs
Updated on: 21/09/2025