I would normally agree with you, but do not tell Japan. We just got back from vacation and QR codes are everywhere from Immigration to menus and even making purchases at convenience stores.
Yes, It is. But, it comes handy when you want to scan the documents. 😊 For the QR code, you can use the the native Camera app on your iPhone. (iOS 11 or later)
BTW, if you swipe down from the upper-right corner of your Home screen to the Control Center, there's a button there that takes you directly to a dedicated QR scanner. I think it's a little quicker than using the Camera app because it directly opens the QR link you're pointing at. More here: https://www.cultofmac.com/739774/scan-qr-code-control-center/