How wa.me links work
WhatsApp's click-to-chat links follow one pattern: https://wa.me/ and then your full phone number. Add ?text= and an encoded message to type it in for the visitor. They can still edit it before sending.
The number has to be in full international form: country code first, then your number, with no plus sign, spaces, brackets, dashes or leading zero. So the UK mobile 07700 900123 becomes 447700900123. This tool does that conversion for you.
Writing a good prefilled message
A prefilled message saves people from staring at an empty chat, and it tells you what they want before you've read a word.
- Say what they're after: "Hi, I'd like to book a cut on Saturday."
- Mention the source: "I found you on TikTok" shows you which channel works.
- Leave a gap to fill in: "My order number is:"
- Keep it short and natural. It's the first thing they'll send, so it should sound like them.
Where to use your WhatsApp link
Online, add it to your link-in-bio page, Instagram or TikTok profile, Google Business Profile, email signature and your site's contact page.
Offline, print the QR code on receipts, menus, packaging and shop windows, where people already have their phone in hand. A scan opens the chat straight away, with no number to type.
Personal or WhatsApp Business?
wa.me links work the same with both. The WhatsApp Business app adds tools that help once customers message you often: greeting and away messages, quick replies, labels and a catalogue.
If you'd rather not share your personal number, set up WhatsApp Business on a separate number and use that in your link.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need a WhatsApp Business account?
No. wa.me links work with both personal and business WhatsApp accounts.
Why does my link say the number isn't on WhatsApp?
Usually it's the format. Check it starts with the country code, has no leading zero after it, and that WhatsApp is set up on that exact number.
Can I make a link without a phone number?
Yes. https://wa.me/?text= followed by your message opens WhatsApp and lets the visitor choose who to send it to, which suits share buttons.
Will people see my phone number?
Yes. The number is part of the link and shows in the chat. Use a separate business number if you want to keep your personal one private.
Do wa.me links expire?
No. The link keeps working for as long as the number has WhatsApp.