How to make a WhatsApp QR code that opens a chat

What a WhatsApp QR code does

A WhatsApp QR code opens a chat with your number when scanned, so customers can message you without saving your contact first. You can also pre-fill the first message, for example “Hi, I'd like to book a table”, which saves typing and tells you why they got in touch.

How it works

The code contains a standard WhatsApp link in the form https://wa.me/<number>, optionally followed by ?text= and the encoded message. Scanning it opens WhatsApp (or WhatsApp Web on a computer) with the conversation ready to start.

Get the number format right

This is the most common reason a WhatsApp code fails. The number must be written in full international format, digits only:

Start with the country code, for example 91 for India or 1 for the US and Canada.
Do not include a plus sign, spaces, dashes or brackets.
Drop any leading zero from the local number.

Example: the Indian mobile number 98765 43210 becomes 919876543210.

Write a useful pre-filled message

Keep it short and specific to where the code appears. A poster for an event might say “Hi, I'd like to register for the workshop”; a product label might say “Hi, I need help with my order”. Using a different message per placement lets you see which one a customer scanned. Customers can still edit the text before sending.

Where it works well

Shop windows and counters, for enquiries and orders.
Flyers and posters for local services such as tutors, salons and repairs.
Product packaging, for customer support.
Business cards, next to a phone number.

Test and keep it professional

Scan the finished code with a phone that does not have your number saved and make sure the right chat opens. If you use a personal number, remember that anyone who scans the code can message you, so consider a separate WhatsApp Business number for public use. Create yours with the QRinst generator and check print quality with the QR checker.

WhatsApp Business versus a personal number

The code works with any number registered on WhatsApp, but for a shop or service a WhatsApp Business account is usually the better fit. It lets you set opening hours, a greeting message and quick replies, and it keeps customer chats apart from your personal ones.

Use a business number for anything printed on signs, packaging or flyers.
A personal number on a public code can be saved and messaged by strangers.
If several staff answer, check how your account handles multiple devices.

Common problems and fixes

"Phone number not on WhatsApp". The number has no WhatsApp account, or it has a typo. Scan the code with a spare phone and compare the number on screen.
The chat opens with the wrong person. A missing country code or a leading zero. Re-enter the number in full international format.
The message does not appear. Very long or oddly formatted text can be dropped. Keep it to a short sentence without unusual symbols.
Nothing happens on a desktop. Phones open the app directly. On a computer the link opens WhatsApp Web, which needs the person to be signed in.