Format explainer
What is a vCard QR code and how does it work?
A vCard is a standard text format for contact information. When that text is encoded in a QR code, a phone can recognize names, numbers, email addresses, organizations and websites as contact fields.
What a vCard can contain
Common fields include first and last name, mobile and work numbers, email addresses, organization, job title, postal address, website and notes. Social links can be included as URLs when the receiving contact app supports them.
More data creates a denser QR code. Dense codes need more screen space and better camera conditions, so include what is useful and test the final result at the size you plan to show it.
- Names and organization
- Phone numbers and email addresses
- Job title and websites
- Addresses, notes and selected links
Compatibility and testing
Contact apps do not interpret every optional vCard field in exactly the same way. Test with a recent iPhone and Android device, verify international phone formatting, and confirm that URLs include https:// when appropriate.
If a code will be printed, test the actual physical size and contrast. Leave a clear quiet zone around the code and avoid placing it over a busy image.
Create a vCard QR code privately
Use the free generator on this site for a quick code. Generation happens locally in the browser, and you can download both a PNG QR image and the matching VCF contact file.
Use jekkil on iPhone or Android when you want multiple reusable cards, one-tap Quick Links and selective sharing available offline.
Open the private QR generatorQuick answers
What is the difference between VCF and vCard?
vCard is the contact-data format; .vcf is the common filename extension used for a saved vCard file.
Can a vCard QR code contain a photo?
The format can include photo data, but that usually makes a QR code too dense for reliable scanning. A smaller set of text fields is safer.
Can I update a printed vCard QR code?
A direct vCard QR contains fixed data and cannot change after printing. A hosted URL can change, but it introduces an online service dependency.