A QR code on a business card links people straight to your website, portfolio or contact details with one scan. To make one, decide where the code should lead, generate it, and print it big enough to scan. This guide covers each step, what to link to, and the mistakes that make a printed code useless.
What to Link to From a Business Card QR Code
- Your website or portfolio. The simplest choice, and it works on every phone.
- A LinkedIn or social profile. Useful when your profile is your main showcase.
- A contact file (vCard). Scanning offers to save your name, phone and email as a contact.
- A booking or contact page. Good for freelancers and small businesses.
Pick one purpose. A card with a single clear action works better than a code that tries to do everything.
How to Make a QR Code for a Business Card
- Choose the link or contact text. If the link is long, shorten it with a URL shortener, which makes the code simpler and easier to scan.
- Open the free QR code generator and paste your link.
- Choose a large size and keep dark code on a light background.
- Download the PNG and test it with two phones.
- Add it to your card design. If you need a layout, try our business card maker.
Adding Contact Details With a vCard
A vCard is plain text in a standard format. You can paste it into a generator, and phones will offer to add a contact. Here is the shape of it, with placeholders:
BEGIN:VCARD
VERSION:3.0
N:Lastname;Firstname
FN:Firstname Lastname
TEL:+15551234567
EMAIL:name@example.com
URL:https://example.com
END:VCARD
The more text you add, the denser the code, and small cards need simple codes. A link to a contact page is often a safer choice than a long vCard. Test any vCard on your phone, since handling can differ between devices.
Size and Placement
- Size: aim for at least 2 x 2 cm, and larger if you can spare the space.
- Border: keep a clear white margin around the code.
- Position: the back of the card is common, so the front stays clean.
- Label: add a short line such as “Scan to see my work”, so people know what to expect.
- Finish: matte paper scans well, while very glossy or textured paper can cause glare.
Mistakes to Avoid
- Linking to something you may change. A static code cannot be edited after printing. Link to a page you control, so you can update where it leads.
- Printing before testing. Always test the printed proof, not only the screen version.
- Low contrast or colored codes. Keep contrast high.
- Too much data. Keep the content short.
- Linking to a page that is not mobile friendly. Most people will scan with a phone.
For more on how different samples look and the text behind them, see our QR code examples guide.
Frequently Asked Questions
Should I put a QR code on my business card?
If you want people to visit your portfolio or save your details quickly, yes. Make sure the card still has your name and contact information in plain text.
What is the best size for a QR code on a business card?
At least about 2 x 2 cm, with a clear border. Test the printed card.
Can I change the QR code after printing?
Not a static one. Link to a page or short link you control, and change what that page shows.
Is the QR code generator free?
Yes, ours is free and needs no sign-up.
Last reviewed October 2026.