Small business

How to Create a WhatsApp QR Code for Your Business (Free)

A WhatsApp QR code opens a chat with you in one scan — with a ready-typed message like "Hi, I want to order". Here is how to make one for free and where to use it.

By MakeMyQROnline team Published 2 min read

Key takeaway

A WhatsApp QR code contains a wa.me link with your phone number in international format and, optionally, a pre-filled message. Scanning it opens a chat with you — no need to save your number. Make one free by choosing the WhatsApp type in a QR code generator, entering your number with country code and a message, then downloading it.

Step by step

  1. 1 Open the free QR code generator and choose the WhatsApp type.
  2. 2 Enter your number with country code (for India, 91 followed by your 10-digit number).
  3. 3 Add an optional message that appears pre-typed, for example "Hi! I'd like to book a table."
  4. 4 Style it with your colours, the phone icon or your own logo, and a "Chat with us" frame.
  5. 5 Download PNG, SVG or PDF and test-scan it on a phone that has WhatsApp.

How a WhatsApp QR code works

WhatsApp's official "click to chat" link has the format wa.me/<number>, where the number is in full international format without "+", spaces, brackets or leading zeros. Adding ?text= with a message pre-fills the chat box.

The QR code simply stores that link. When someone scans it, WhatsApp opens a chat with your number and your message ready to send — they only need to tap Send.

You enterThe code contains
91 98765 43210https://wa.me/919876543210
+44 7700 900123 and "Hi!"https://wa.me/447700900123?text=Hi!

WhatsApp Business: built-in QR vs your own

The WhatsApp Business app can show a QR code and short link for your business profile. Making your own with a generator adds what the built-in one doesn't: your brand colours, your logo, a printed label, and vector SVG or PDF files for sharp printing. Both open the same chat.

10 smart places to use a WhatsApp QR code

  1. Shop counters and billing desks — "Order on WhatsApp".
  2. Restaurant tables and takeaway bags — reorders and table bookings.
  3. Product packaging and labels — support and reorders.
  4. Visiting cards, next to a vCard QR code.
  5. Flyers, posters and newspaper inserts.
  6. Shop windows, for after-hours enquiries.
  7. Delivery vehicles and banners.
  8. Property signs for real-estate enquiries.
  9. Clinic and salon reception for appointments.
  10. Event stalls and exhibitions — "Get the brochure on WhatsApp".

Tips for more chats

  • Write the message in your customer's words: "Hi, I want today's menu" gets more replies than a blank chat.
  • Put a clear label in the frame — "Chat on WhatsApp" — and the number in text underneath for people who prefer to type.
  • Use different pre-filled messages on different flyers ("Hi from the Diwali flyer") to see which one brings in customers.
  • Set a greeting and away message in WhatsApp Business so every scan gets a quick reply.

Make yours now — free, no signup

Live preview, your colours and logo, PNG / SVG / PDF download.

Make my WhatsApp QR code

Frequently asked questions

Is a WhatsApp QR code free?

Yes. The wa.me link is free from WhatsApp, and a static WhatsApp QR code made on MakeMyQROnline is free, has no scan limit and never expires.

Can a WhatsApp QR code open a group?

For a group, use the group's invite link (Group info → Invite via link) with the Website QR type. Anyone with the link can ask to join, so share it carefully.

Does the person need to save my number?

No. Scanning opens a chat with you straight away, without saving the number to contacts.

Why does my WhatsApp QR code say the number is invalid?

The number must include the country code and must be registered on WhatsApp. Remove the leading zero and any "+", spaces or dashes.