How to create a WhatsApp QR code
- Enter your phone number in international format with the country code, e.g.
+44 7700 900123. Spaces, dashes and the + sign are removed automatically. - Optionally type a message that appears pre-filled in the chat, such as “Hi, I would like to book a table.”
- Download the code and put it on flyers, menus, packaging, business cards or your shop window.
How the WhatsApp link works
The code contains a click-to-chat link in WhatsApp's official wa.me format. When someone scans it, WhatsApp opens a chat with your number; if WhatsApp is not installed, the link opens in the browser instead.
| You enter | Link in the QR code |
|---|---|
+44 7700 900123 | https://wa.me/447700900123 |
0044 7700 900123 | https://wa.me/447700900123 |
| Number and message “Hello!” | https://wa.me/447700900123?text=Hello! |
| Only the message | https://wa.me/?text=Hello! – the person chooses whom to send it to |
Leave out the leading 0 of the national number: a UK mobile written as 07700 900123 becomes +44 7700 900123.
Ideas for WhatsApp QR codes
- Restaurants and cafés: reservations and take-away orders from the menu or the window.
- Shops and online stores: customer service on packaging, receipts and delivery notes.
- Real estate and car sales: a sign that starts a chat about exactly this offer, with the reference in the message.
- Events and classes: registrations and questions from posters and flyers.
- Service providers: a quick way to request a quote from your van, business card or invoice.
Frequently asked questions
Does the other person need to save my number?
No. Scanning the code opens a chat with you directly, without adding you to their contacts.
Does it work with WhatsApp Business?
Yes. wa.me links open chats with personal and business accounts alike.
Can I change the message later?
The message is stored in the code, so a new message needs a new code. People can always edit the text before they send it.
Why does the code open a web page instead of WhatsApp?
That happens when WhatsApp is not installed on the phone that scanned the code. The page offers to download WhatsApp or to continue in WhatsApp Web.