How to put a QR code on a business card
On a standard 3.5 x 2 inch card, a 0.8 to 1 inch QR code scans easily, as long as it holds a short link. Here are the sizes, what to put in the code and the file your printer needs.
Updated September 24, 2026
The right size
A business card is read in the hand, 8 to 12 inches away. The 10:1 rule gives about 1 inch, and the readability floor is 0.8 inch. On a 3.5 x 2 inch card, a 0.85 to 1 inch code leaves room for your name, title and contact details and still scans comfortably.
| Item | Value |
|---|---|
| Trim size | 3.5 x 2 in |
| Bleed | 0.125 in each side (3.75 x 2.25 in) |
| Safe area | 0.125 in inside the trim |
| QR code size | 0.85 to 1 in |
| White margin around the code | 4 modules, about 0.12 in |
| Error correction | M, or H with a logo in the center |
Static vCard or contact page: the density trap
Putting your whole contact card in the code sounds logical. But a full vCard often passes 250 characters: the pattern grows to 57 by 57 modules or more, and each module is under 0.4 mm on a 0.85 inch code. Many phones give up, especially in trade show lighting. A dynamic contact page holds a 25-character short link: a 25 by 25 grid, close to a millimeter per module, readable on the first try.
Bonus: when your number or title changes, the page updates and the 500 cards already handed out stay correct. The vCard generator offers both versions.
Where to place the code
- On the back, alone with a call to action: the cleanest layout.
- Front, bottom right: the eye lands there last, after your name.
- Never flush with the edge: trimming can cut into the white margin.
A short line under the code tells people why to scan: "Save my contact", "See my work". A code with no explanation gets scanned far less.
Cards for a whole team
A sales team needs one code per person, each leading to that person's contact page. On Pro, a CSV file with one row per employee creates every code in one go, up to 100 per batch, delivered as a ZIP of images named per person. When someone leaves, their page can point to the main line or to their replacement, so cards already sitting in client drawers keep working for the company.
The file for your printer
Send the code as vector: SVG, PDF or EPS. A PNG blown up by the printer loses crisp edges. For four-color offset printing, ask for the code in pure black (100% K) rather than rich black built from all four inks: the slightest plate misregistration would blur the edges. PDF and EPS exports in CMYK are included on Pro.
Mistakes that cost a reprint
- Spot gloss UV over the code: glare stops phones under a lamp. Keep the code on a matte area.
- Dark stock with a light code: inverted colors are not read by every phone.
- An untested proof: scan the printed proof, not just the file on screen. The checker tests contrast and margin.
Your codes keep working, even if you stop paying
Every code you create or edit on a paid plan keeps redirecting to its last destination, forever.
Static codes are included in every plan: they rely on no server and never expire.
Read the lifetime guarantee termsFrequently asked questions
What is the minimum QR code size on a business card?
0.8 inch wide, not counting the white margin. 0.85 to 1 inch is more comfortable.
Should the code hold my website or my vCard?
A dynamic contact page does both: a "Save contact" button plus links to your site and socials.
Does a QR code work on recycled card stock?
Yes, if the stock is light and matte. Avoid heavily textured papers that break module edges.
Can I see how many people scanned my card?
Yes with a dynamic code: every scan is counted, for example after a trade show.
Sources
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