You need Snapchat+ or a verified account to add links to stories

Snapchat does not let most accounts add clickable links directly to stories. You have two paths: pay for Snapchat+ (a monthly subscription), or get your account verified by Snapchat, which is free but requires that Snapchat recognizes you as a public figure or brand.

If you have neither, you can still share a link in your story as text or a screenshot, but viewers cannot tap it to open the URL. The link-in-story feature exists specifically to let creators drive traffic somewhere without forcing people to copy and paste.

This guide walks you through both paid and free routes, and explains what happens if your account does not meet the requirements yet.

Key Takeaways

  • Snapchat+ subscribers can add links to stories by tapping the link icon while creating a story, then pasting the URL they want to share.
  • Verified accounts (free, but Snapchat must recognize you as a public figure) also get the link feature without paying.
  • Regular accounts cannot add clickable links to stories, though you can type or screenshot a URL for viewers to copy manually.
  • Links in stories expire when the story expires, usually after 24 hours, so the feature works best for time-sensitive URLs.
  • Snapchat+ costs money each month and includes other features beyond links, so weigh whether the full subscription is worth it for your use.

How to add a link if you have Snapchat+

Open Snapchat and tap the camera icon to start creating a story. Take a photo or video, or select one from your camera roll. Once you have your content ready, look at the bottom of the screen for a row of icons.

Tap the link icon (it looks like a chain link). A text field will appear asking you to paste or type the URL. Enter the full web address — for example, https://www.example.com — and tap the checkmark or confirm button. The link is now attached to that story snap.

When you post the story, viewers will see a small link preview or a "Tap to visit" button. They can tap it to open the URL in their browser without leaving Snapchat. The link stays active as long as your story is visible, then disappears when the story expires.

How to get a verified account (free link access)

Snapchat verifies accounts for public figures, celebrities, athletes, musicians, and established brands. If you fall into one of those categories, you can request verification directly in the app. Open Snapchat, go to your profile, tap the settings icon, and look for an option labeled "Request Verification" or "Verify Your Account."

Snapchat will ask you to provide proof of your identity or notability — this might be a government ID, a link to your Wikipedia page, press coverage, or other documentation that shows you are who you claim to be. The review process can take days or weeks, and Snapchat does not always approve requests.

If your account is verified, you will see a blue checkmark next to your username, and you gain access to the link feature without paying. The verification is permanent unless Snapchat removes it for violating their terms.

What to do if you cannot add links yet

If you do not have Snapchat+ and your account is not verified, you have a few workarounds. You can type the URL directly into your story as text — viewers will see it but cannot tap it to open it. They will have to manually copy the link and paste it into their browser, which most people will not do.

Another option is to take a screenshot of a webpage or a QR code that points to your link, then post that screenshot as a story snap. Viewers can photograph the QR code with their phone camera and tap the notification that appears, or they can see the URL in the screenshot and type it in. This is slower than a clickable link but works if you need to share a URL occasionally.

If you share links often, Snapchat+ is usually the most practical choice. The subscription also includes other features like custom app icons, exclusive filters, and the ability to replay snaps, so you may find value beyond just the link feature.

Understanding link expiration and story timing

Links in Snapchat stories are only active while the story itself is visible. By default, stories disappear after 24 hours. If you delete your story early, the link stops working when ready. This matters if you are sharing time-sensitive URLs — a link to a live event, a limited-time sale, or a registration important date should be posted close to when you want people to use it.

Snapchat does not notify you when someone taps a link in your story, and you cannot see how many people clicked it. If you need to track clicks or measure traffic, you will need to use a URL shortener like Bit.ly or your own analytics tool that can count visits to a specific link.

Common mistakes when adding links

The most common error is forgetting to include the full URL. Links must start with http:// or https:// — if you paste just example.com, Snapchat may not recognize it as a valid link. Always copy the complete address from your browser's address bar.

Another mistake is adding links to stories you do not want to stay public. Remember that anyone who views your story can see and tap the link, so do not share private URLs, internal links, or anything you would not want a stranger to access. If your story is set to "My Friends Only," the link is still only visible to those friends, but the URL itself is not hidden.

Some people also add links to stories and then wonder why viewers are not clicking them. Snapchat does not highlight links prominently — they appear as a small button or preview. If you want people to notice the link, mention it in the story itself: "Tap the link to see more" or "Link in story."

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I add multiple links to one story snap?

No, Snapchat allows only one link per snap. If you want to share multiple URLs, you can post several snaps in your story, each with its own link. Viewers will see them in sequence as they swipe through your story.

What happens to links if I repost an old story?

If you save a story snap and post it again later, the link remains attached. However, if the original URL no longer works or has changed, the link will point to a dead page or the wrong destination. Always check that links are still valid before reposting old content.

Do I need Snapchat+ to see links that other people add to their stories?

No, any Snapchat user can tap and open links in other people's stories, regardless of whether you have Snapchat+. The subscription is only required to add links yourself.

Can I add links to stories if I use Snapchat on a computer?

Snapchat's web version is limited and does not support adding links to stories. You must use the Snapchat mobile app on iOS or Android to create stories with links.

Will my followers know I added a link to my story?

Snapchat does not send a notification when you add a link to a story. Followers will only see the link when they view your story. If you want to draw attention to it, mention the link in the story itself or send a message to specific friends telling them to check your story.