Free Instagram QR Code Generator

With over 160 million users, Instagram is the 3rd most popular social media platform in the United States. Out of this, there are more than 25 million businesses on Instagram and more than 3 million are trying to be influencers. It’s safe to say, it’s a tough market to stand out in. So, how do you grow your brand and increase your reach?

Well, Instagram QR Code is one of the easiest ways to go about it.

Whether you’re a business placing a QR code on your storefront or an influencer putting it on your business card, a single scan can turn a stranger into a follower.

In this guide, we’ll show you how to find, customize, and generate your Instagram QR code to make connecting faster and easier than ever. Let’s get into it!

What is an Instagram QR Code?

An Instagram QR Code is a unique, scannable code that instantly directs people to your Instagram profile or posts. It’s an effortless way to share your profile anywhere- offline and online.

For example, if a photographer prints their Instagram QR code on their business card, potential clients can scan it and see their portfolio. This makes it easier for clients to see their work and follow them, increasing engagement and potential bookings.

Instagram automatically generates a QR code for every profile.  While this built-in option offers basic customization, it has limitations. Here’s how to access and use it.

How to create a QR Code for your Instagram profile

The following are the steps to create a QR Code on Instagram:

Step 1: Find your Instagram profile link

Open Instagram and go to your profile. Click on the “Share profile” button. Here you will find a shareable QR Code for your profile.

Step 2: Customize your QR Code

You can personalize your QR Code by selecting from different color options, images, selfies, or emojis.

Step 3: Download QR Code

Once you’ve edited it to your liking, you can download a JPEG file of the QR Code on your phone. 

Instagram’s native QR Code comes with only a handful of customizations. You cannot add your logo or download it in different file formats. If you want to get the maximum out of your Instagram, an online QR Code Generator is your answer.

How to customize your Instagram QR Code

While Instagram provides a built-in QR code for your profile, it is limited to just that. With tools like The QR Code Generator (TQRCG), you can create QR codes for posts and reels as well. Moreover, you can also personalize it with your branding, track where it was scanned, and so much more. Here’s a side-by-side comparison of Instagram QR Code and TQRCG.

If you are looking to just share your profile with friends, Instagram’s QR Code is sufficient. However, if you need QR Codes for specific posts, reels, or business promotions, The QR Code Generator (TQRCG) is the way to go. 

The following are the steps to creating a Custom QR Code with TQRCG:

Step 1: Copy Your Instagram Profile, Post, or Reel Link

• For a profile QR code: Open your Instagram profile > Click on Share Profile > Select Copy Link.

• For a post or reel QR code: Open the post or reel > Click Share > Select Copy Link.

Step 2: Open The QR Code Generator

Go to The QR Code Generator. Choose the “URL” option as the content type (usually selected by default).

Step 3: Paste your Instagram link

Paste the copied Instagram link in the input field. The tool will automatically generate a QR code preview based on the link.

Step 4: Brand your QR Code

Design the QR Code:

• Select the colors, shapes, and sizes that align with your branding
• Add a logo or icon or a logo for a personal touch

Note: You’ll need to sign up to be able to upload logos and customize your Instagram QR Code for branding. 

Step 5: Test your QR Code

Scan the QR code using a smartphone or QR Code scanner to ensure it redirects correctly. Verify that your Instagram post or profile loads without any issues.

Step 6: Download the QR Code

Choose the file format that fits your needs the best and click the Download button to save the QR Code to your device.

• PNG: Best for online use and small printing jobs
• SVG/EPS: Ideal for high-quality prints like brochures and banners.

Step 7: Share your Instagram QR Code everywhere

• Share the QR Codes on your other social media profiles
• Add your QR code to business cards, flyers, brochures, store-front, ads, and email signatures
• Include a compelling call-to-action (CTA), such as “Scan to Stay in the Loop” or “Join our Instagram Community-Scan Now”

How do you scan an Instagram QR Code?

You can scan an Instagram QR code using the Instagram app or your phone’s camera (on some devices). Here’s how:

Using the Instagram App:

1. Open the Instagram app.
2. Tap on your profile icon (bottom right).
3. Tap the ≡ menu (top right) and select QR Code to access your own QR code.
4. To scan a QR code, tap “Scan QR Code” at the bottom.
5. Point your camera at the Instagram QR code.
6. Instagram will automatically recognize it and take you to the profile.

Using Your Phone’s Camera (if supported):

1. Open your camera app.
2. Point it at the Instagram QR code.
3. If your phone supports QR scanning, a link will pop up—tap it to open the profile in Instagram.

Using Google Lens (Android) or Live Text (iPhone):

• Android: Open Google Lens (or Google app with Lens) and scan the QR code.
• iPhone: Use the Live Text feature in the Camera app (iOS 15+).

If none of these work, you can check out other methods to scan an Instagram QR Code on Android and iPhone.

Frequently asked questions