How long does a WhatsApp group invite link last? It does not expire
A WhatsApp group invite link does not expire on a timer. It works until an admin resets it. How to reset one, who can share it, and how to approve who joins.
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- By WavesFlo team
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A WhatsApp group invite link does not expire on a timer. It stays valid until an admin opens Group info, taps Invite via link or QR code and chooses Reset link, which cancels every copy already shared and creates a new one. Resetting is the only way to stop a link that has leaked.
How do you reset the link?
- Open the group and tap its name to open Group info.
- Tap Invite via link or QR code.
- Tap Reset link and confirm.
- Share the new link with the people who should have it. The old one stops working at once.
People already in the group stay; only those who had not yet joined with the old link are affected.
Who can share the link?
| Group | Who can share by default |
|---|---|
| Started with fewer than 33 members | Every member |
| Larger groups | Admins only |
| Any group | Admins can change this in Group permissions |
How do you control who joins?
- Turn on Approve new members, so each person who uses the link waits for an admin to accept them.
- Reset the link after an event or a campaign ends.
- Do not post the link in a public place if the group is private.
- Set a calendar reminder to reset the link every few months for a group that is joined by link.
What happens to people who join by link?
Existing members see a Send message history option in the chat after someone joins by link, so they can catch the newcomer up with up to 100 recent messages and the pinned messages. See new members and old messages.
For making links, QR codes and fixing links that do not work, read the full WhatsApp group invite link guide.
Questions
Do WhatsApp group invite links expire?
No. They stay valid until an admin resets the link.
How do I cancel a link that leaked?
Open Group info, tap Invite via link or QR code and choose Reset link.
Can I make people wait for approval?
Yes. Turn on Approve new members so admins accept each person who uses the link.