How to Add a Link on Instagram Stories with Stickers
Learn step-by-step how to add and customize link stickers in Instagram Stories, boost clicks with design tips, CTAs, and track performance via Insights.
How to Add a Link on Instagram Stories with Stickers
Instagram Stories are an essential tool for boosting engagement, sharing timely content, and driving website traffic. With Instagram’s Link sticker feature, you can send viewers directly to your product pages, articles, offers, and more — all without them leaving the app. This guide walks you step-by-step through how to add a link to your Instagram Stories, plus tips on design, testing, analytics, and compliance to maximize clicks.
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Check if Your Account Meets Instagram’s Link Sticker Requirements
Link stickers used to be available only to accounts with at least 10K followers or verification, but Instagram has since expanded access. Still, a few conditions can affect availability:
- Your account must be in good standing
- You must comply with Instagram’s community guidelines and terms of service
- In some regions, feature rollouts may be delayed
> Tip: If you can’t find the Link sticker, update your app and check for any account restrictions.
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Update the Instagram App to the Latest Version
Before adding links, ensure your Instagram is updated to get the latest sticker features and bug fixes.
Steps to update:
- Open the App Store (iPhone) or Google Play Store (Android)
- Search for “Instagram”
- Tap Update if available
Regular updates help you avoid glitches and ensure feature availability.
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Open Story Creation Mode
You can add a link to any Story, whether it’s a photo, video, or uploaded media.
Steps:
- From your home feed, swipe right or tap Your Story
- Choose to:
- Take a photo
- Record a video
- Upload from your gallery
Tip: Pre-designed posts can look polished, while live shots appear authentic. Mix both for variety.
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Tap the Sticker Icon in the Top Menu
Once your Story content is ready, tap the sticker icon on the top menu.
You’ll find options like location, mention, music, hashtags, and polls. The Link sticker is typically near the top rows.
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Select the “Link” Sticker and Paste Your Desired URL
Tap Link, then paste the URL you want viewers to visit.
Best practices:
- Use secure HTTPS links (https://...)
- Keep URLs short and uncluttered
- Avoid unnecessary redirects
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Customize Sticker Text and Placement for Maximum Visibility
Instagram lets you change how the sticker text appears. Make it descriptive and relevant.
Examples:
- Instead of “Visit now,” use “Shop the New Collection”
- Instead of “Read more,” use “Get Your Free Guide”
Placement tips:
- Keep away from screen edges to prevent cropping
- Give space around the sticker so it stands out
- Align with visual focal points for natural attention flow
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Use a Clear Call-to-Action (CTA)
Guide users to tap the sticker by using strong CTAs in both the text and visuals.
Optional CTA ideas:
- “Tap to Shop”
- “Learn More Here”
- “Read the Full Post”
Adding arrows, highlights, or animations can further direct attention.
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Apply Design Tips for Clickable and Eye-Catching Stickers
Consider these design tips:
- Color contrast: Make sure stickers stand out visually
- Typography: Keep brand font consistency
- Animation: Motion elements can subtly draw attention
- Keep it clean: Avoid overcrowding with too many stickers or text
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Test Your Link Before Publishing
Always test before posting:
- Tap the sticker and check that the correct page opens
- Ensure quick loading and mobile-friendly design
- Proofread any custom text
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Track Sticker Performance with Instagram Insights
View analytics to understand how your Stories perform and how often stickers are tapped.
To view Link sticker analytics:
- Open your profile
- Tap Insights
- Select Content You Shared
- Filter for Stories and check “Link Clicks”
Example Insights Table
| Story Date | Reach | Sticker Taps | CTR (%) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Jan 5 | 1,200 | 150 | 12.5 |
| Jan 10 | 980 | 120 | 12.2 |
| Jan 15 | 1,400 | 210 | 15.0 |
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Adjust Stories Based on Data
Low CTR? Try:
- Different CTA wording
- Moving the sticker to a more prominent spot
- Testing alternate backgrounds
High CTR?
- Reuse effective formats and stylistic choices
- Apply similar strategies to other campaigns
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Creative Uses for Link Stickers
Link stickers aren’t just for sales pages:
- Exclusive promotions – flash sales or coupon codes
- Content marketing – blog or article links
- Product launches – early access and previews
- Event signups – webinars, workshops, or tickets
- Multimedia – videos on YouTube or Vimeo
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Stay Compliant with Instagram Guidelines
Protect your account by ensuring all outbound links:
- Are safe and trustworthy
- Don’t mislead viewers
- Comply with advertising laws and privacy regulations in your region
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Summary & Next Steps
Adding a link on Instagram Stories with the Link sticker is a high-impact, low-effort way to drive engagement and site visits. Start by confirming you have access, update your app, design a visually clear sticker with a strong CTA, and test before posting. Then use Instagram Insights to measure performance and adjust strategies.
Take action now: Open Instagram, create your next Story, and add a targeted Link sticker to connect followers directly with your content or products.
With creativity, consistent testing, and attention to detail, your Stories can become a reliable traffic and conversion channel for your brand.
