How to Create a WhatsApp Link Without Saving a Number
Updated August 2026
Learn how WhatsApp click-to-chat links work, how to include a phone number and pre-filled message and why the international number format matters.
What is a WhatsApp click-to-chat link?
A WhatsApp link opens a chat with a specified phone number without requiring the visitor to save that number as a contact first. It is useful on websites, emails, QR codes and social profiles.
The visitor still chooses whether to send a message; opening the link does not automatically send one.
Want to try the idea yourself? Use the WhatsApp Link Generator.
Use the international phone number
WhatsApp links normally use the full international number without spaces, brackets or a leading domestic zero. A UK number beginning 07, for example, is represented using country code 44 and the number without that first zero.
Entering the number incorrectly can open the wrong destination or fail to start the chat.
If you want to explore this topic further, see How to Format WhatsApp Text: Bold, Italic and More.
Adding a pre-filled message
A click-to-chat URL can include text that appears in the message box when the chat opens. This is useful for enquiries such as “I would like more information”.
Special characters and spaces need to be URL-encoded correctly, which is one reason a link generator is easier than building the address manually.
Useful Wid9et tools related to this guide
Where to use the link
You can place the link behind a website button, include it in an email, add it to a social bio or turn it into a QR code.
If the number changes, remember to update every place where the old link has been published.
Generate the link
The WhatsApp Link Generator creates the click-to-chat URL from the number and optional message you provide.
Test the finished link on a phone before publishing it widely so you can confirm the correct chat and message open.
Try it yourself
Ready to put this into practice? Open the relevant Wid9et tools directly in your browser.