By Kavita Mistry 
I’ve been there: you meet someone new, want to chat on WhatsApp, but realize you need to add them first. With 2 billion users in 2023 (Statista), WhatsApp is the go-to for free messaging, media sharing, and even payments in some regions. Adding a contact is quick, whether via your phone, the app, or a QR code. Here’s how to add someone on WhatsApp in 2025 on Android or iPhone, plus tips to keep your chats flowing. Need to refresh your chats or log out? Check my guides on refreshing WhatsApp and logging out of WhatsApp.
Why Add Someone on WhatsApp?
WhatsApp, owned by Meta, lets you send texts, voice messages, photos, videos, and documents for free. In select regions (e.g., India), you can link a bank account for payments via UPI. Adding contacts lets you:
- Connect Instantly: Message or call anyone worldwide.
- Build Groups: Add friends to group chats.
- Share Media: Send photos or files securely.
Note: The contact’s phone number must be registered with WhatsApp. Want to ensure your chats update? See my WhatsApp refresh guide.
How to Add Someone on WhatsApp: 3 Methods
Here are three ways to add a contact (verified via WhatsApp Help Center, 2025):
Method 1: Via Phone Contacts
- Open your phone’s Contacts app.
- Tap Add New Contact.
- Enter the contact’s First Name, Last Name, and Phone Number (must be WhatsApp-registered).
- Add optional details (e.g., email, company) if needed.
- Tap Save.
- Open WhatsApp and go to Chats.
- Tap the magnifying glass and search the contact’s name.
- Tap their name to start chatting.
Method 2: Via WhatsApp App
- Open WhatsApp.
- Tap the new chat icon (for iphone bottom right, for android bottom left).
- For iPhone tap the plus(+) icon on the top right. For android user tap the plus (+) icon at the bottom right
- Now tap “New contact“,
- Enter the Name and Phone Number (WhatsApp-registered).
- Add optional details and tap Save.
- WhatsApp returns to the chat screen. Search the contact via the magnifying glass or scroll to find them.
- Tap their name to message.
Method 3: Via QR Code
- Open WhatsApp and go to Settings.
- Tap the QR code icon next to your profile name.
- Select Scan Code.
- Grant camera permissions if prompted.
- Scan the contact’s QR code (found in their WhatsApp > Settings > My Code).
- Tap Add to Contacts on the contact card.
- Save the name and number in your phone’s Contacts.
- Return to WhatsApp, search the contact, and tap to chat.
Tip: If chats don’t load, try my WhatsApp refresh guide. Want to log out after adding? See my logout guide.
Before You Add
- Verify Number: Ensure the contact’s phone number is active on WhatsApp.
- Check Privacy: WhatsApp collects data (e.g., contacts, metadata). Adjust settings in Privacy > Contacts.
- Backup Contacts: Sync to Google (Android) or iCloud (iPhone) to avoid losing contacts.
Troubleshooting
- Contact Not Showing? Refresh WhatsApp (see refresh guide).
- QR Code Fails? Ensure good lighting and camera permissions.
- Wrong Number? Edit the contact in your phone’s Contacts app.
How do I add someone on WhatsApp?
Save their WhatsApp-registered number in Contacts or add via WhatsApp’s New Contact option.
Can I add someone without their phone number?
No, WhatsApp requires a registered phone number.
How do I add a contact on iPhone via chats?
Go to Chats > New Chat > New Contact, save details, and search.
How do I use WhatsApp QR code to add someone?
Scan their QR code in Settings > Scan Code, then save to Contacts.
Why isn’t my new contact showing in WhatsApp?
Refresh WhatsApp or check if the number is registered (see refresh guide).
Wrap-Up
Adding someone on WhatsApp is a breeze, whether you use your phone, the app, or a QR code. Start chatting, sharing, or even sending payments in supported regions. If chats lag, try my WhatsApp refresh guide. Need to secure your account? Check my guide to log out from WhatsApp. Got questions about WhatsApp? Comment below—I’d love to help! Share this with anyone new to WhatsApp.