What is a WhatsApp QR code?
A WhatsApp QR code encodes a special wa.me link that opens WhatsApp directly to a chat with your number — with an optional pre-filled message. The person scanning never has to save your contact or type anything; the chat opens ready to send.
How to create your WhatsApp QR code
- Enter your number in international format — country code, no leading zero, no spaces or symbols (e.g. a UK number starting
07...becomes447...). - Optionally add a pre-filled message so customers don't face a blank chat.
- Click Generate and download your code.
Getting the number format wrong is the single most common reason a WhatsApp QR code opens the wrong chat or fails — double-check the country code before generating.
How to scan a WhatsApp QR code
On both iPhone and Android, open the Camera app and point it at the code — a link appears, tapping it opens WhatsApp (or WhatsApp Web on desktop) directly to the chat, with any pre-filled message ready to send.
Common problems and troubleshooting
- Opens the wrong number or fails — recheck the international format; no "+", no leading "0", country code included.
- Scanner doesn't have WhatsApp — they'll be prompted to install it before the chat can open.
Security and privacy considerations
The code only contains your number and optional message — nothing is uploaded to or stored on our servers. Since anyone who scans it can start a chat with you, only display it somewhere you're comfortable receiving messages from.
Best practices
- Keep the pre-filled message short and specific — it saves the customer typing and tells you where they found you.
- Place the code somewhere it'll actually be scanned: a counter, table card, or packaging insert perform far better than a footer link.
Real-world use cases
Restaurant table cards for quick orders, storefront windows for customer questions, packaging inserts for post-purchase support, or business cards offering an instant-message alternative to a phone call.
Frequently asked questions
Does the scanner need WhatsApp installed?
Yes — scanning opens the WhatsApp app or WhatsApp Web directly.
Can I change the message later on the same code?
No, the message is baked into the code itself. Generate a new one to change it.
Does this work with WhatsApp Business too?
Yes, the link format is identical for personal and Business accounts.