TL;DR
Use this free tool to build a WhatsApp click-to-chat link or QR code in seconds: Chat Link Generator
Why click-to-chat links matter
If you sell anything online or handle support through WhatsApp, don't force people to save your number first. A click-to-chat link opens a chat with you instantly—on web or mobile—with an optional prefilled message. It reduces friction and increases replies.
The fastest way (free tool)
- Open the Chat Link Generator → https://smartgenerators.dev/chat-link-generator
- Select WhatsApp (default tab).
- Enter your phone number (auto-formats to international E.164).
- (Optional) Add a prefilled message like "Hi! I'd like to order."
- Click Generate Link → Copy or Download QR.
You'll get a link like:
https://wa.me/15551234567?text=Hi%21%20I%27d%20like%20to%20orderPaste it anywhere: Instagram bio, website button, Google Business profile, flyers (via QR), or email signature.
Manual format (if you're hand-crafting)
Short, safe format:
https://wa.me/<E164>?text=<URL_ENCODED_MESSAGE>Example:
https://wa.me/447911123456?text=Hello%20thereNotes:
- Use digits only with country code (no +, spaces, or dashes in the URL path).
- Always URL-encode your message (spaces → %20, etc.).
Add a QR code (for menus, posters, packaging)
In the generator, click QR Code → Download PNG. Print it on your menu, storefront, flyers, or package inserts. Scanning the code opens the chat instantly with your prefilled message.
Pro tips that increase replies
- Prefill intent: "Hi! I want to book a table for [date] at [time]."
- Track campaigns: In the generator's Advanced panel, add UTM parameters so you know whether Instagram, email, or print works best.
- Localize the message for each campaign/region.
- Use a short label on buttons: "Chat on WhatsApp".
Common mistakes (and quick fixes)
- Spaces not encoded → Use %20 or let the tool encode for you.
- Wrong number format → Include country code; strip brackets/dashes from the path.
- Using + in the path → For wa.me, don't include + in <number> (keep only digits).
- Message too long → Keep it concise; people can edit after opening.
Where to place your link (ideas)
- Instagram / TikTok bio ("Chat on WhatsApp")
- Website CTA button ("Order on WhatsApp")
- Email signature ("Questions? Message us")
- Google Business profile (add to website/chat fields)
- Printed materials via QR (menus, flyers, posters, packaging)
Troubleshooting
- Link opens WhatsApp Web instead of the app? → That's normal on desktop; on mobile it opens the app.
- Prefilled text not showing? → Make sure it's URL-encoded (use the generator).
- Multiple languages? → Create separate links per language and route users by page locale.
Bonus: Telegram, Messenger & Discord links
The same page also builds links for Telegram (user/channel/bot), Messenger (m.me) and Discord (invites or message jump)—handy if your audience prefers other chat apps: Chat Link Generator
Final checklist
- ✅ Link works on mobile and desktop
- ✅ Message is short, clear, and encoded
- ✅ Button text says "Chat on WhatsApp" (or local equivalent)
- ✅ QR code placed where people actually see it
- ✅ Campaign UTMs set in Advanced, if you track traffic
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I prefill a message in the link?
Yes. Use the message box in the generator; it automatically URL-encodes the text.
Do users need to save my number?
No. The link opens a chat immediately.
Is this private?
Everything is generated locally in your browser. No data is stored.
Can I track which campaign works best?
Use the Advanced → UTM parameters. Review sources in your analytics.