Quick Start

1. Auth

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Note:

For more information on:

• Use of API key, see the Authentication page.
• Usage quotas, request limits, and subscription tiers, see the Limits page.

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Note:

The HeyGen API is available as a standalone service, separate from the HeyGen App.

• Your HeyGen App plan - Free, Creator, Team, or Enterprise - controls what you can access in the HeyGen web application.
• All HeyGen App users automatically receive Free Trial API access, which includes Video Generation, Video Translation endpoints.
• For higher usage, the API offers three paid subscription tiers: Pro, Scale, and Enterprise.

2. Pick your path

Three main ways to use the API. Choose one and hit the endpoint.

Option A: Video Agent (prompt → video)

Flow: One prompt → one video. No avatar or template needed.

• Use when: You want the fastest path from text to video.
• Endpoint: POST https://api.heygen.com/v1/video_agent/generate
• Body: { "prompt": "Describe your video..." }
• Docs: Create with Video Agent

curl -X POST "https://api.heygen.com/v1/video_agent/generate" \
  -H "X-API-KEY: $HEYGEN_API_KEY" \
  -H "Content-Type: application/json" \
  -d '{"prompt": "A presenter explaining our product launch in 30 seconds"}'

Option B: Video Translate (video → translated video)

Flow: Upload or reference a video → get back the same video in another language.

• Use when: You have an existing video and need a translated version.
• Endpoint: POST https://api.heygen.com/v1/video_translate/translate
• You need: Source video + target language. See supported languages.

Option C: Use Digital Twin or Photo Avatar

Flow: You need an avatar first, then use its ID to generate videos.

1. Create an avatar (once), either:
   • Web: HeyGen App → create Photo Avatar or Digital Twin, or
   • API: Create Photo Avatar / Create Digital Twin
2. Get the avatar ID from the app or API response.
3. Generate video using that ID (e.g. Create a Video with avatar_id and your script).

• Use when: You want a specific look/persona (photo avatar or digital twin) in every video.

Summary

Next

• API Reference – all endpoints
• Postman collection – ready-made requests
• Limits & pricing