Shotlink guides / Expiring links
Share an expiring link with a clear deadline
An expiring route helps end a short sharing window. It stops the Shotlink from redirecting after a deadline; it does not revoke access to the original destination.
Guest: up to 30 minutes. Workspace: up to 7 days. No payment details needed for Free.
How to use it
Decide what must expire
If only the short route should stop working, choose a Shotlink expiry. If the document or form must become inaccessible, also change access at the destination.
Choose guest or workspace sharing
Guest links offer 5, 10, 15, or 30 minutes without an account. Verified workspaces offer link lifetimes up to seven days and workspace click analytics.
Share the deadline
Tell recipients when the route closes, including the time zone when relevant. A clear deadline prevents a broken-link surprise.
Check the end of the window
After expiry, the short route shows an expired-link response. The QR uses that same route and stops redirecting too. Independently close or restrict the destination if required.
Before you share
- Expiry is not password protection and does not erase copies or downloads.
- A fallback can help an active route when its primary destination is unavailable. It does not extend an expired link's lifetime.
- Workspace links are not permanent: the current maximum lifetime is seven days.
- Do not use a temporary route for account recovery links or other content that must remain reachable beyond its expiry.
Common questions
Does expiry delete the destination?
No. Shotlink stops routing. The destination remains under its owner's control.
Will a fallback open after expiry?
No. Expiry closes the short route. Configure destination access and your communication plan separately.