How to Make a QR Code for a PDF (Fast & Lightweight)

Last updated: November 5, 2025 · 5 min read

Want to share menus, manuals, or documents with one scan? You can easily create a QR code that links to your PDF file. Here’s how to do it safely and efficiently.

Step 1: Host your PDF online

You need a public link to your file. Upload your PDF to one of these options:

• 📁 Google Drive → share link (set to “Anyone with link”).
• ☁️ Dropbox → copy the public share URL.
• 🌐 Your own website → upload under /files/manual.pdf.

Step 2: Create the QR link

1. Go to QRBuilder.tech.
2. Select URL / Link.
3. Paste your PDF’s share link.
4. Click Generate QR → Download PNG or SVG.

Step 3: Test the QR on mobile

Open your phone camera → scan → check that the PDF opens directly (no login required). If not, adjust sharing permissions.

Pro tips

• Shorten long URLs with Bitly for a cleaner code.
• Use SVG format for print clarity (especially in brochures).
• For multi-page PDFs, optimize compression to under 5MB.

Common uses

• Restaurant menus
• User manuals
• Event tickets or forms
• Company brochures

📚 Related: Best QR size for printing · How to create a QR

👉 Try it free: QRBuilder.tech