How to Insert a Link on Instagram Story with Link Sticker
Learn how to add a link sticker to your Instagram Story with step-by-step instructions, best practices, and tips to increase link clicks and engagement.
How to Insert a Link on Instagram Story with Link Sticker
Instagram Stories are a popular, high-engagement feature that lets you share quick, interactive updates with your followers. One of the most powerful tools within Stories is the link sticker, which allows you to send viewers directly to an external web page. If you’ve been wondering how to insert a link on Instagram Story, this guide will walk you through each step, plus share tips to boost clicks and track performance.
By strategically adding links to your Stories, you can drive more traffic to your website, online store, event registration page, or any other destination—making it an essential tool for brands, creators, and organizations alike.
---
Check Your Eligibility for Instagram’s Link Sticker
Before you begin, confirm that your account can use the link sticker. Originally, this feature was restricted to accounts with over 10,000 followers or verified status, but Instagram has expanded link sticker access to all users.
You should still verify the following:
- Account type: Available on personal, business, and creator accounts.
- Location availability: Some geographic regions receive updates later.
- App version: Outdated versions may not show the sticker option.
---
Update Your Instagram App
An up-to-date app ensures that you have access to the latest features, including link stickers.
- iOS (App Store): Search for “Instagram” and tap Update if available.
- Android (Google Play Store): Search for “Instagram” and tap Update if available.
- Restart the app after updating to refresh new features.
Regular updates also help maintain security and performance.
---
Step-by-Step Guide: Adding a Link Sticker in Instagram Stories
Here’s the exact process for how to insert a link on Instagram Story:
1. Open the Stories Camera
- Tap the plus (+) icon on your profile photo or swipe right from your feed.
- Select Story from the menu.
2. Capture or Upload Content
You can:
- Take a photo.
- Record a video (up to 15 seconds).
- Swipe up to upload media from your device.
3. Tap the Sticker Icon and Select “Link”
- Tap the sticker icon (smiley face with folded corner) at the top.
- Find and choose the Link sticker.
4. Paste Your Link and Customize Sticker Text
- Paste your target URL.
- Optionally change the text to a short, clear CTA.
- Tap Done to insert it.
5. Place and Resize the Link Sticker
- Drag to position.
- Pinch to resize.
- Keep it visible but unobtrusive.
---
Best Practices for Clickable Instagram Story Links
Adding a link is only the first step—presentation matters.
- Highlight with visuals: Use arrows, shapes, or animations around the sticker.
- Direct with a clear CTA: Phrases like “Tap to shop” or “Learn more” improve engagement.
- Keep your branding consistent: Align fonts, colors, and tone with your visual identity.
---
Creative Content Ideas to Increase Link Clicks
Make your stories more engaging to encourage taps:
- Tease content: Show a short preview of a blog post or video linked via the sticker.
- Showcase products: Add discounts or promo codes to the sticker text.
- Promote events: Share a countdown and link to registration.
- Mix interactive stickers: Add polls or quizzes to boost participation.
- Create urgency: Use time-limited offers alongside the link.
---
Troubleshooting Common Link Sticker Issues
If your link sticker isn’t working as expected, identify the cause and apply the correct fix:
| Problem | Possible Causes | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| Link sticker not showing | Outdated app, feature not yet in your region, or cache issue | Update app, restart it, or log out/in again |
| Link not clickable | Improper URL format, slow internet, or Instagram glitch | Ensure “https://” format, check internet speed, or re-add link |
| Can’t edit sticker text | Older app build or temporary error | Update app and retry |
---
How to Track Instagram Story Link Performance
Knowing how your link performs helps refine your strategy:
- For business/creator accounts, open the Story within 24 hours.
- Swipe up to see Viewers and engagement metrics.
- Review the Link Clicks metric for click-through performance.
- Adjust link placement, stickers, or CTAs based on results.
---
Summary and Next Steps
Now that you know how to insert a link on Instagram Story, you can start directing your followers to valuable online destinations in just a few taps.
Key takeaways:
- Update your Instagram app to access link stickers.
- Follow the five-step process to insert and customize your link.
- Use CTAs, visuals, and creative ideas to boost clicks.
- Monitor performance using Instagram Insights and refine your approach.
Start experimenting with link stickers today to drive more traffic, sales, and engagement directly from Instagram Stories. The more intentionally you design your story content and prompts, the better your results will be.
