Do I need a WhatsApp Business account to use a QR code?

No. Any WhatsApp or WhatsApp Business number that can receive chats will work. The QR code simply opens a chat to that number (with an optional pre-filled message).

Why can't I type a + in the phone number?

WhatsApp wa.me links use the international number without a plus sign. Enter the country code and number as digits only, for example 447700900123 for a UK mobile.

Is my number or message sent to your servers?

No. The QR code is generated entirely in your browser. We never upload the phone number, message, or QR image.

What happens when someone scans the code?

Their phone opens WhatsApp (or prompts them to) with a chat ready to your number. If you added a message, it appears in the compose box so they can send it in one tap.

Can I use my personal number?

Yes, but many businesses prefer a dedicated WhatsApp Business number so work chats stay separate. You can get a UK or Australian number from gosimless in minutes.

How long can the pre-filled message be?

The full wa.me URL (including encoded text) must stay within 2048 characters so it works reliably in browsers and when shared. The form shows how much URL space you have left.

Can I embed the WhatsApp link on my website?

Yes. After you generate, open the Link tab to copy ready-made HTML for a click-to-chat anchor (wa.me). Paste it into your website, landing page, or email signature. You can also copy the plain URL if you prefer to style the button yourself.

Can I track scans or clicks on my QR code?

Not directly with a standard wa.me QR — WhatsApp does not report scan analytics back to you. A practical workaround is a unique pre-filled message per placement (for example “I scanned the window QR”) so you can see which channel drove the chat. For click counts and redirects you need a custom setup: host a short link on your server that logs the hit, then redirects to your wa.me URL.

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Free · Instant · Private

Free WhatsApp QR Code Generator

Generate a WhatsApp QR code in seconds which lets your customers start a business chat without typing your number. Use an optional pre-filled message so enquiries arrive ready to convert. Display it on a menu, receipt, packaging, poster or anywhere customers can find you.

Generate a QR code Get a WhatsApp number

Phone showing WhatsApp, generate a QR code for click-to-chat

Where WhatsApp QR codes shine

Anywhere someone can point a camera, online or offline.

Menus & table talkersProduct packagingFlyers & postersReceipts & invoices

Vehicle graphicsEvent badgesWebsite & email signaturesRetail window displays

Why use a WhatsApp QR code?

Turn print, packaging, and signage into conversations. Customers skip typing your number and open a chat in one scan. For your business, a unique pre-filled message per placement (window, flyer, receipt) makes it easy to see which channel drove the lead. Use them to claim a promo, book a quote, or ask about stock without friction.

One-tap chat

Customers open WhatsApp with your number ready. No typing digits or hunting for a contact.

Pre-filled context

Add a greeting or campaign line so every scan starts the conversation the way you intend.

Offline to online

Print codes on packaging, posters, and receipts to pull footfall into WhatsApp.

Private by design

Your business and customer phone numbers are not shared with any third-party.

Best practices

Small details make scans feel effortless and keep your brand looking sharp.

Tip 1

Use a business number

Route scans to a dedicated WhatsApp Business line so personal chats stay separate and your profile looks professional.

Tip 2

Keep the message short

A clear opener converts better than a paragraph. Leave room for the customer to add detail.

Tip 3

Test before you print

Scan with Android and iPhone, light and dark modes, and confirm the pre-filled text looks right.

Tip 4

Give the code space

Leave quiet margin around the QR, avoid busy backgrounds, and print large enough for arm’s-length scanning.

Tip 5

Match the channel to the offer

Pair each campaign with its own message (or even number) so you can see what drove the chat.

Tip 6

Add a short URL fallback

Not everyone can scan. Put the same wa.me link in small print underneath the code.

Need a number for your QR code?

We provide UK mobile, UK landline, and Australia mobile numbers you can verify on WhatsApp in minutes. Then put that number behind your QR code for business chats.

Get a virtual UK mobile number from gosimless

A virtual UK mobile number for instant WhatsApp verification, ideal for SMS or call codes and everyday business messaging.

UK Mobile Numbers for WhatsApp

Get a virtual UK landline number from gosimless

A virtual UK landline number you can verify on WhatsApp via voice code, so customers reach a local-looking business line.

UK Landline Numbers for WhatsApp

Get a virtual Australian mobile number from gosimless

A virtual Australia mobile number ready for WhatsApp verification, so you can chat with AU customers on a local number.

Australian Mobile Numbers for WhatsApp

See all WhatsApp numbers

Frequently asked questions

Quick answers about WhatsApp QR codes and this generator.

Get a WhatsApp number Chat to us

Ready for a business WhatsApp number?

Put a dedicated UK or Australian number behind your QR code and keep work chats off your personal phone.

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