The Expiry Problem with "Free" QR Generators
Many websites offer free QR code generation but create dynamic QR codes that route through their redirect server. When the free trial ends — often after 14–30 days — the redirect is disabled and every printed QR code stops working.
This affects thousands of businesses that print menus, packaging, and marketing materials without realising the codes will expire.
What Makes a QR Code Permanent?
A QR code is permanent when the destination is encoded directly into the pixel pattern — a
static QR code. No server involved. No subscription needed. The code encodes the URL (or text, WiFi credentials, vCard, etc.) directly in the black-and-white module pattern. As long as the printed paper exists and the destination URL resolves, the code works.
Generators That Produce Permanent Static QR Codes
QR Code Tools (this site)
Generates static QR codes for all data types. The code is computed in your browser and downloaded as a file. No account, no redirect server, no expiry — ever. This is the recommended option for anyone who needs a permanent QR.
QR Code Monkey (qrcode-monkey.com)
Free static QR generation with color and logo customisation. Static codes are permanent. Note: their "dynamic QR" feature is separate — only use the static generator to avoid expiry.
GoQR.me
Free API for developers. Generates standard-compliant static QR codes programmatically with no per-request charge for reasonable use.
Google Charts API (unofficial)
Technically deprecated by Google but still functional. Generates standard QR images from a URL parameter. Use only for non-critical applications given the deprecation status.
How to Verify a QR Code Will Not Expire
1. Generate the QR and scan it.
2. Check the URL it resolves to. If it shows a URL from the generator's own domain (e.g., `qr.io/abc123`) rather than your destination URL, it is a dynamic redirect — it will expire.
3. If the scanned URL is your actual destination URL directly, the code is static and permanent.
Putting this into practice
Start with the smallest real test you can run. Generate the code, print it at the exact size you plan to use, and scan it with two different phones in the lighting where it will live. Check that the destination page loads quickly on a mobile connection and that the call to action next to the code tells people what they will get. If anything feels slow or unclear, fix it before you print a full batch, because reprints cost more than a short test. Keep a note of the size, material, and placement that worked so the next batch starts from a proven setup.
Common mistakes to avoid
The most common mistakes are easy to avoid once you know them. Long payloads make modules tiny, low contrast makes edges hard to read, and text placed too close to the border eats the quiet zone the scanner needs. Covering a corner finder pattern with a logo or a sticker breaks detection entirely, and a code placed behind glare or on a curved surface fails even when the print is perfect. Review each of these points on a proof copy, and treat any failure as a reason to adjust the design rather than a reason to blame the scanner.
Quick checklist
- Keep the payload as short as practical so modules stay large.
- Keep dark modules on a light background with strong contrast.
- Leave a clear quiet zone on all four sides of the symbol.
- Test the printed code at the real viewing distance and lighting.
- Confirm the destination page loads fast on a phone.
- Recheck the code after any change to the link, design, or placement.
Related tools and guides
- Use the [QR size calculator](/qr-size-calculator) to match the printed size to the expected scan distance before you commit to a print run.
- The [error correction simulator](/error-correction-simulator) shows how damage tolerance changes the density of the symbol at each level.
- Test every code with the [QR scanner](/qr-scanner) on more than one phone before you publish or print it.
- Create a fresh code with the [URL QR code generator](/url-qr-code-generator) when the destination is a web page.
- Run unfamiliar destinations through the [QR safety checker](/qr-safety-checker) before you share a code widely.
- The [blog](/blog) collects more guides on sizing, printing, security, and payments for QR codes.
