Create a WhatsApp QR code for your phone number, message template, or business chat. Step-by-step setup, best practices for print, and common fixes.
A WhatsApp QR code lets people start a chat with you instantly—no typing, no saving the number. It’s perfect for shops, restaurants, customer support, delivery drivers, clinics, and events.
In this guide, you’ll learn how to create a WhatsApp “click-to-chat” link and turn it into a QR code that scans reliably on print and screens.
1) What Is a WhatsApp QR Code?
A WhatsApp QR code typically contains a Click-to-Chat link, such as:
• A phone number
• Optional pre-filled message
• Works on mobile and desktop (where supported)
When someone scans it, WhatsApp opens directly to a chat with you.
2) Create Your WhatsApp Click-to-Chat Link
Option A: Phone number only
Use this format (international number, no +, no spaces):
https://wa.me/9665XXXXXXXX
Example (Saudi format):
https://wa.me/9665XXXXXXXX
Option B: Phone number + pre-filled message
Use:
https://wa.me/9665XXXXXXXX?text=YOUR%20MESSAGE
Example:
https://wa.me/9665XXXXXXXX?text=Hello%20I%20need%20help
✅ Tip: Replace spaces with %20.
3) Turn the Link into a QR Code (Using SmartQR)
1. Copy your wa.me link
2. Open SmartQR QR generator
3. Paste the link and generate your QR code
4. Download as SVG (best for print) or PNG (high resolution)
5. Test scan on iPhone + Android
CTA: <a href="/qr/create">Create your WhatsApp QR code now</a>.
4) Best Use Cases (High Conversion)
• Store counter: “Scan to chat with support”
• Delivery packaging: “Questions? Scan to WhatsApp”
• Restaurant receipts: “Scan to order again”
• Clinics: “Scan to book an appointment”
• Events: “Scan for info / directions / help desk”
5) Print Tips (So It Always Scans)
• Size: 3–4 cm minimum for flyers; bigger for posters
• High contrast: dark QR on light background
• Keep a clear quiet zone around the QR
• Avoid glossy surfaces and busy backgrounds
(Internal links: <a href="/articles/qr-code-size-guide">Size Guide</a>, <a href="/articles/best-qr-code-colors">Best QR Code Colors</a>)
6) Common Problems & Fixes
“It opens WhatsApp but not my number”
• Make sure the number is international format
• Remove + and all spaces
• Example for Saudi numbers: start with 966
“QR doesn’t scan”
• Increase size
• Improve contrast
• Export as SVG or a larger PNG
(Internal link: <a href="/articles/qr-code-not-scanning-fix">Not Scanning Fix</a>)
“The message text looks broken”
• Use URL encoding for spaces: %20
• Avoid emojis in the link (test carefully)
FAQ
How do I create a WhatsApp QR code for my number?
Create a https://wa.me/ link with your international number, then convert it into a QR code using SmartQR.
Can I add a pre-filled message to the WhatsApp QR code?
Yes. Add ?text= followed by your message (spaces become %20).
What’s the best QR size for WhatsApp posters?
For posters, start around 8–12 cm, depending on scanning distance.
Should I use SVG or PNG?
SVG is best for print. PNG works if exported at high resolution and not enlarged later.
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