How to Get a Virtual Number for WhatsApp: Top 7 Providers in 2025

Whatever the reason, a virtual number lets you use WhatsApp without tying it to your real phone number. No extra SIM cards, no hassle. But which provider should you choose?

Not all virtual number services work with WhatsApp, and some could even get your account flagged.

I spent more than 100 hours researching over 40 options to assist you select the most reliable, safe, and hassle-free service provider.

7 Best Virtual Number Providers for WhatsApp in 2025

I was able to create an extensive list of the 7 best virtual phone number providers, both free and premium so that you don't have to. Let's explore them one by one. 

1KrispCall

Most of the free virtual phone number for WhatsApp providers are hit-or-miss. Some numbers work at first, then mysteriously stop. Others never work with WhatsApp at all. But KrispCall? It just works.

Setting it up was a breeze. No rejected verifications, no shady number assignments, and no weird delays. The app itself is clean and easy to navigate, with all your calls, texts, and voicemails in one place. I didn't have to jump through hoops to get a number or worry about WhatsApp flagging it. If you're looking for a no-nonsense virtual number provider that actually delivers, KrispCall is a solid choice.

Features at a Glance:

• Supports multiple countries for virtual numbers.
• Unified inbox for calls, texts, and voicemails.
• Call forwarding and routing for business users.
• Works with CRM tools for seamless integration.

2Sonetel

Sonetel is another well-known provider of virtual phone number for WhatsApp with a customer base of over 200K. Sonetel provides you with a virtual number for any city in every nation on earth. If you use the chat feature on their website, Sonetel's virtual number is free. Additionally, Sonetel provides apps that allow you to forward incoming calls anywhere in the world for the price of a local call or answer them for free.

Features at a Glance:

• Free incoming calls (paid plan needed for SMS and WhatsApp).
• Global virtual numbers with coverage in 70+ countries.
• AI-powered customer service tools for business users.
• Web and mobile app for easy number management.

3Grasshopper

You can get virtual number for WhatsApp with numerous number alternatives from this well-known virtual phone number provider, including toll-free, vanity, and local numbers. Nevertheless, there is no possibility for foreign virtual phone numbers in this phone system.

Businesses can select the best plan with Grasshopper according to the number of virtual phone lines and extensions they require. Small businesses will benefit greatly from this feature since it eliminates the need to pay for unnecessary numbers. If the company expands, you can add more figures as needed.

VoIP (Voice over Internet Protocol) capabilities include call forwarding, texting, call recording, extensions, voicemail, and customizable greetings, which are included with all plans. 

Features at a Glance:

• Dedicated virtual numbers (local, toll-free, or vanity).
• Voicemail-to-text and call forwarding.
• Auto-attendant for a professional call experience.
• Mobile and desktop apps for seamless management.

4Google Voice

Google Voice is kind of like that friend who's been around forever, and you may not always think of them first, but when you do, they're always there. I've been using this for years now, and while it isn't the most exciting option out there, it's definitely one of the most convenient ways to go about getting a virtual number for WhatsApp.

It only took a few minutes to set up because it was tied to my Google account, so there was no added steps. The best part is that is free for personal use in the U.S. and is very smoothly integrated with other Google services. However, the bad part is it's not always international friendly, and Google can revoke numbers because of inactivity. If you are looking for a long-term WhatsApp virtual number, you may want to look elsewhere as a backup option.

Features at a Glance:

• Free U.S. phone number (for personal use).
• Call forwarding and voicemail transcription.
• Works across desktop and mobile.
• Easy integration with Gmail and Google Meet.

5Text Now

It is applications like TextNow that make one stop and wonder why everyone is not using it. I decided to give it a try because I needed a free virtual number for WhatsApp, and it worked quite well. If you are located in the U.S. or Canada, you can obtain a free phone number and use it just with WhatsApp, without spending one cent.

The setup was ridiculously simple. Download the app, sign up, and boom—instant number. The only catch is that it's ad-supported, so unless you want to see ads every time you open the app, you might need to pay for a premium plan. Also, if you don't use your number regularly, TextNow might take it back and reassign it. So if you're looking for a long-term WhatsApp solution, make sure to keep the number active.

Features at a Glance:

• Free U.S. and Canada numbers.
• Works on WiFi or mobile data.
• Voicemail, call forwarding, and messaging included.
• Optional paid plans to remove ads and get premium support.

6Hushed

Hushed provides total command over your temporary phone number for WhatsApp. I tried it and it was very smooth. Buy a number, WhatsApp verification, and there you go.

One thing that I really liked was that you can delete and swap numbers anytime. If you use WhatsApp for business or just temporary conversations, it's really convenient – zero long term commitments, no headaches. 

Features at a Glance:

• Temporary or long-term virtual numbers.
• Works in 60+ countries.
• Private messaging and calling included.
• Pay-as-you-go or subscription plans.

7VirtualPhone

VirtualPhone is like the greatest assistant, it just works- quietly and efficiently. And sometimes, that's exactly what you need. I tested it out because I wanted to see if the number would actually work for setting up a virtual number for WhatsApp business since usually the sketchy workarounds get flagged by WhatsApp. But VirtualPhone came through. I was able to get a number running within minutes without any weird loopholes. 

Features at a Glance:

• Toll-free and local numbers that don't feel disposable.
• Instant activation.
• Built for businesses but works just as well for personal use.
• Calls and messages are routed smoothly across devices.

What Is a Virtual Number?

A virtual number is comparable to a physical phone number. The sole distinction is that it is not connected to landline or traditional PSTN networks. It is also commonly referred to as an access number or direct inward dialing. 

A virtual phone number allows you to talk to anyone at any time using the internet. Therefore, it makes sense that the popularity of online phone numbers is growing. A layer of secrecy and various communication choices are provided by virtual phone numbers, which are important considerations for many professionals.

Telephone numbers linked to a landline or smartphone should not be compared to virtual phone numbers. These numbers come from the cloud and are associated with an existing number that you already possess. Because of this, using a virtual phone is also known as cloud telephony.

Whether you're working from home or touring the world, virtual phone numbers allow you to stay in touch without feeling constrained by a specific place or gadget.

Is It Legal or Safe to Use a Virtual Number on Whatsapp?

Short answer? Yes—mostly. But there are some caveats.

Virtual numbers are perfectly legal in most countries, as long as you're using them for legitimate purposes (like keeping your personal number private or running a business). Many companies, including Google Voice and Sonetel, offer them as a mainstream service.

Now, the safety part. A virtual number is only as secure as the provider you choose. Stick with reputable services that offer encryption and privacy controls—because shady providers might recycle numbers, making it possible for someone else to access your old messages.

And WhatsApp? It allows virtual numbers, but it prefers real SIM-based ones. If too many people register accounts using the same provider, WhatsApp might flag or ban certain numbers. So, choose wisely, verify your number quickly, and avoid frequent switching.

Conclusion

A virtual number for WhatsApp gives you control over your privacy, your business, and how you communicate. It's a small shift that creates a big impact. But you need to choose the right provider to stay safe. You can use any of the above-mentioned providers for legitimate use. 

And if staying connected goes beyond just a phone number, you can always rely on AirDroid to be your digital watchdog.

You'll always know what's happening on your kid's device without hovering. AirDroid Parental Control gives you visibility without intrusion. Real-time screen mirroring, activity tracking, and seamless device management keep you informed, so you can guide, not guess.

The world is going digital and privacy matters. Connection matters, too. Now, you have the tools to balance both.

FAQS

Can I Use a Virtual Number for Whatsapp on Multiple Devices?

Elsa

WhatsApp binds one number to one device at a time. At the same time, it is not so with WhatsApp Web or multi-device support when you can have a conversation on several devices without changing numbers.

What Is the Difference Between a Virtual Number and a Burner Phone?

Elsa

A virtual number is an online-operated number without the use of any physical SIM card, whereas a burner phone is a short-lived disposable phone that includes a SIM card.  Virtual numbers offer flexibility, whereas burner phones prioritize anonymity.

Will Whatsapp Ban My Account If I Use a Virtual Number?

Elsa

WhatsApp may flag virtual numbers if they’re frequently reported or violate policies. Make sure you are using a reputable provider and adhering to WhatsApp's terms to avoid risking suspension.

How Do I Get a Free Virtual Number for Whatsapp?

Elsa

Some apps, like TextNow or Google Voice, give out virtual numbers for free, but this usually depends on an issue of availability. Some services offer a free trial, while others can just be availed of through a subscription.