How to join a WhatsApp group with an invite link

WhatsApp groups are joined through invite links that look like https://chat.whatsapp.com/AbC123.... Anyone with the link can open it, so you do not need to know the admin. This guide covers phones, WhatsApp Web and what to do when a link does not work.

Join from your phone (Android or iPhone)

  1. Make sure WhatsApp is installed and you are signed in with your phone number.
  2. Tap the invite link (chat.whatsapp.com/…) that a group admin or friend sent you.
  3. WhatsApp opens a preview with the group name, picture and sometimes the member count.
  4. Tap Join group. If the admins turned on approval, the button says Request to join and you wait until an admin accepts you.

Join from a computer

Open the link in your browser and choose Continue to chat, then open it in the WhatsApp desktop app or WhatsApp Web. Your phone must already be linked to that computer.

Why a WhatsApp invite link says it is invalid

  • The link was reset. Admins can revoke a link at any time, which instantly breaks every copy shared online.
  • The group is full. WhatsApp groups have a maximum size; a full group cannot accept new members.
  • The group was deleted or you were previously removed by an admin.
  • The link is incomplete. Copying from social posts sometimes cuts off the last characters.

If a link no longer works, ask the person who shared it for a fresh invite. Admins can reset a link at any time, and the old one stops working straight away.

Protect your privacy in public groups

  • Members of a group can usually see your phone number, so think twice before joining large public groups.
  • Under Settings → Privacy you can limit who sees your profile photo, “About” and last seen, and under Groups who can add you to groups.
  • Turn off automatic media download if a group shares lots of files.

Leave or report a group

Open the group, tap its name to open Group info, then scroll down to Exit group or Report group. Reporting sends recent messages to WhatsApp for review.

Safety note: Groups listed here are run by third parties. JoinLinkHub does not own, moderate or verify them, and invite links can expire or change. Never share passwords, one-time codes or payment details with group members, and be wary of “investment”, giveaway or job offers. Read the full safety guide.

Frequently asked questions

Is it free to join a WhatsApp group?

Yes. Joining through an invite link is free. Be cautious of groups that ask you to pay for entry, signals or "premium" access.

Can group admins see my phone number?

In most groups the admins and other members can see your phone number, so only join groups you trust.

Why do I have to wait after tapping the link?

The group admins have turned on member approval. You will be added once an admin accepts your request.

Last updated: October 3, 2026