How WhatsApp click-to-chat links work
- The format is https://wa.me/<number>, with the number in full international format.
- Leave out the +, spaces, brackets, dashes and any leading 0: 0412 345 678 in Australia is 61412345678.
- Add ?text= to pre-fill a message. The customer can edit it before sending.
Source: WhatsApp Help Center: how to use click to chat.
Where to use your WhatsApp link
- Your Instagram bio and Facebook page as the main contact link.
- Your Google Business Profile, website and email signature.
- The counter, menu or van: print the QR sign so people can message you without saving your number.
- Different messages for different jobs: one link that starts "I’d like a quote", another "I’d like to book".
More free QR tools: WhatsApp link and QR · WiFi QR sign · menu QR code · contact (vCard) QR · Google review QR. Printables: gift vouchers and loyalty stamp cards.
Quick answers
How do I create a WhatsApp link with my phone number?
Use https://wa.me/ followed by your full number in international format: country code first, with no plus sign, spaces, dashes, brackets or leading zero. An Australian mobile 0412 345 678 becomes https://wa.me/61412345678. The tool above does this for you.
Can the link start with a message already typed?
Yes. Add ?text= and your message to the link, for example "Hi, I’d like to book". The customer still has to press send. Type it in the message box above and it is added for you.
Does the number need WhatsApp Business?
No. The link works with any number that has an active WhatsApp account, personal or Business. WhatsApp Business adds things like a business profile, quick replies and opening hours.
Will the QR code stop working?
No. It is just your wa.me link drawn as a QR code, with no redirect or account in between. It works as long as the number has WhatsApp.