QR code: good or bad for your SEO?
- Annick Vivicorsi
- Jun 9
- 2 min read
QR codes are ubiquitous in modern communication media. Easy to use, they connect physical media to digital content. But what impact do they have on search engine optimization (SEO)? Can they harm your online visibility, or, on the contrary, boost it? Here's a comprehensive look at the impact of QR codes on SEO.

A QR code itself is not indexable
First, it's important to understand that search engines don't read QR codes. A QR code printed on a business card or flyer has no direct impact on your Google ranking . It's simply a tool for users to quickly access a link.
On the other hand, QR codes can have an indirect effect on your SEO, depending on how they are used.
It all depends on the page it points to
An effective QR code for your SEO must link to a page:
Optimized (title tags, Hn, meta description, rich content)
Responsive (mobile friendly)
Fast to load
Useful and engaging for the user
The better the target page is designed, the more likely it is to be explored, shared, revisited... all positive signals for search engines.
Examples of pages to point to:
A Google Business listing (useful for customer reviews)
A landing page with a form
A contact or reservation page
A “portfolio” or “testimonials” page
Beware of third-party or poorly configured QR codes
Using a QR code generated via a free platform can pose several problems:
Redirection via a third-party subdomain (eg: qr.site.com/yoursite )
Invasive tracking or external hosting
Link or QR code expires after a certain time
These practices are not ideal for your site's credibility or SEO. It's better to use a QR code that links directly to your own URL , without an intermediary.
The professional approach: simplicity, clarity and control
To ensure the effectiveness of your QR codes, I offer a custom creation service for €18 including tax, with:
A high-definition QR code
PNG, JPG and PDF files
Direct link to the URL of your choice
No tracking, no advertising
Delivery within 24 to 48 hours
It's the perfect solution to maintain control over your link, increase your visibility, and provide a seamless user experience.
Order your QR code here: https://www.annickdv.fr/qr-code
Annick Vivicorsi