How to create a vCard QR code for a business card

Choose direct contact import or a profile

A vCard stores contact details in the code itself. A compatible scanner can offer to add them without an internet connection. Opening a website listed in the card still requires connectivity. If the phone number or role changes regularly, use a permanent profile URL and update its details on your site. You can offer a downloadable contact file there.

Keep the contact details useful

Start with a name, organization and work number. Add a work email and website if needed. For international contacts include the country code and use the appropriate international number format. Anyone who photographs the code can read its contents. Longer notes and multiple numbers make a denser pattern, which may be harder to scan on a small card.

Test a saved contact on two phones

1. Select vCard in the QR generator and fill in the details.
2. Scan it on iPhone and Android. Check whether the scanner offers contact import or displays plain text.
3. Save a test contact and verify its name, accented letters, phone number and email.
4. Export SVG or PDF, print a proof at its actual size and scan it again.

Plan for details that change

A printed vCard continues to carry the old details. Generate a replacement and separate the outdated cards. If you encoded a profile URL, scan an old card to verify the new details. Print a short address or phone number on the card for people whose scanners cannot import vCards.