wa.me link
A chat, already typed out.
A WhatsApp code opens the app straight into a chat with a specific number, the message already filled in. The other person still presses send — nothing goes anywhere on their behalf — but nobody has to save a number or type a greeting first.
live example — scannable
Payload format
A wa.me link, not the Business API
This is a plain wa.me click-to-chat link, the same format WhatsApp's own share button produces. It needs no WhatsApp Business account and no API key — the number is public the moment it is printed, exactly like a phone number on a sign.
https://wa.me/919876543210?text=Hi!%20I%20saw%20your%20listing.- wa.me/
- The scheme. Opens WhatsApp if it's installed, whatsapp.com/send otherwise.
- number
- Full international number, digits only — no +, spaces or leading zero.
- ?text=
- Optional, URL-encoded. Prefills the message box; the recipient still sends it.
How to make one
Two fields
- 01
Pick the country, enter the number
Use the number's own WhatsApp, not a shared or group number.
- 02
Write an opening message
Optional, but a code with no message just opens an empty chat.
- 03
Test it on your own phone
Confirm the number and message are exactly right before printing.
Where it earns its keep
Where a chat code works
- A shop window, so a question becomes a chat instead of a phone call.
- A delivery vehicle, for 'running late' messages that reach a real person.
- An event flyer, collecting RSVPs as chats instead of a shared inbox.
- A support card in a product box, for setup questions.
Questions
WhatsApp QR codes, answered
Does this send the message automatically?
No. It opens the chat with the message typed in and waiting — the recipient still has to press send. No platform lets a QR code send on someone's behalf.
Do I need a WhatsApp Business account?
No. wa.me links work with a personal WhatsApp number, the same as sharing your number by hand. A Business account adds catalogues and automated replies, but is not required for a working link.
What if the person doesn't have WhatsApp installed?
The link falls back to a web page prompting them to install it, or opens WhatsApp Web on a desktop. It does not silently fail.
Can scanning someone's WhatsApp code save their number as a contact?
No — a wa.me link opens a chat, it does not save a contact. Use a vCard code instead if the goal is adding someone to an address book.