WhatsApp QR Code: How to Create, Download and Use It for Business
A WhatsApp QR code lets anyone scan and message you instantly — perfect for visiting cards, shop displays, restaurant menus, and event banners. Here is how to create and download one for free.
What is a WhatsApp QR code?
A WhatsApp QR code is a scannable image that opens a WhatsApp chat to your number when someone points their phone camera at it. It works exactly like a wa.me link but in a printable format — no typing required.
When scanned, the customer is taken directly to a WhatsApp conversation with you. If you included a pre-filled message, it appears automatically in their chat box — they just press Send.
Where to use your WhatsApp QR code
- Visiting cards: Replace your phone number with a QR code. Customers scan instead of typing.
- Shop entrance: Print a large QR code — "Scan to order on WhatsApp".
- Restaurant menu: Add the QR code next to "Place your order" or "Ask for today's specials".
- Event banners and stalls: Let people at exhibitions or markets connect instantly.
- Product packaging: Add a QR to your packaging — "Scan for warranty or support".
- Email signature: Embed the QR image in your email footer.
- Social media: Post the QR as an Instagram story or Reel end card.
How to create a WhatsApp QR code — step by step
Step 1: Go to LinkWA
Open linkwa.in on any browser. No account required.
Step 2: Enter your number and message
Select your country, enter your WhatsApp number, and optionally add a pre-filled message. For a shop display, try: "Hi! I scanned your QR code and want to place an order."
Step 3: Click Generate
Your WhatsApp link is created instantly. A QR code appears automatically below it.
Step 4: Download the QR code
Click Download QR code. You get a clean PNG with a green header, your QR code, a WhatsApp logo in the center, and linkwa.in branding at the bottom. It is ready to send to a printer.
Does the WhatsApp QR code ever expire?
No. The QR code is simply a visual representation of your wa.me link. It never expires — as long as your WhatsApp number is active, the QR code works. You can print it once and use it for years.
What size should I print the QR code?
- Visiting card: 2cm × 2cm minimum
- A4 shop display: 8cm × 8cm or larger
- Banner or poster: 15cm × 15cm or larger
- Storefront sign: 25cm × 25cm or larger
The PNG downloaded from LinkWA is 480px wide — sufficient for most print uses. For very large prints (banners over 1m), ask your printer to upscale it using vector-safe methods or request an SVG version.
QR code best practices for businesses
- Always add a call to action near the QR code: "Scan to chat on WhatsApp" or "Scan to order"
- Test the QR code by scanning it yourself before printing at scale
- Keep a white or light background — dark backgrounds reduce scan reliability
- Make sure the QR code is not distorted, stretched, or partially obscured