UPI for NRIs: How You Can Use It Abroad & What You Need to Know

UPI Isn’t Just for India Anymore

If you’re an NRI, you probably rely on traditional banking methods or expensive remittance services for transactions back home. But what if we told you that you could use UPI (Unified Payments Interface) while living abroad? Many NRIs are unaware that they can now link their NRE/NRO accounts to UPI and make seamless payments in India, just like a resident Indian.

Take Rohan, for example – a UK-based NRI who frequently sends money to his family in India. Every time he needed to pay a bill or transfer money, he had to go through a lengthy remittance process or rely on his Indian debit card, which wasn’t always convenient. He didn’t even realize that he could use UPI abroad until a friend mentioned it. Once he set it up, he was able to pay directly using his UPI app, just like he did when he lived in India.

UPI has revolutionized digital payments in India, allowing instant transfers, bill payments, and merchant transactions with just a mobile number or QR code. This innovation is no longer limited to residents in India – select NRIs can now use UPI even with international mobile numbers. However, the process and requirements can be confusing, leading to many NRIs missing out on this game-changing convenience.

This article will break down everything you need to know about using UPI as an NRI, from eligibility criteria to step-by-step activation and the benefits of switching to this hassle-free payment method.

Can NRIs Really Use UPI from Abroad?

Yes, NRIs can now use UPI internationally. The National Payments Corporation of India (NPCI) has enabled UPI transactions for NRIs with international mobile numbers from selected countries. This means you can:

• Make instant payments to Indian merchants and individuals.
• Pay bills, subscriptions, and other recurring payments in India without needing an intermediary.
• Enjoy fast, secure, and cost-effective transactions compared to traditional remittance methods.
• Use QR codes and UPI IDs for seamless digital transactions.

Previously, NRIs had to rely on remittance services, debit/credit cards, or net banking for payments in India. UPI simplifies this by offering real-time transactions without additional fees or delays.

What Do NRIs Need to Use UPI?

To start using UPI abroad, you need:

1. An NRE/NRO account with an Indian bank that supports UPI for international numbers.
2. A mobile number registered in an eligible country, linked to your NRE/NRO account.
3. A UPI-enabled app (like PhonePe, Google Pay, or Paytm) linked to your account.
4. Bank approval—your bank must support UPI access for NRIs.

Without an NRE/NRO account, you won’t be able to use UPI. If your current bank does not provide this feature, you may need to open an account with a different bank that does.

Which Countries Support NRI UPI Usage?

Currently, NRIs in the following countries can link their international numbers to UPI:

This list is expanding, and more countries may be added as Indian banks continue their global UPI expansion. Always check with your bank for the latest updates.

Step-by-Step Guide: How to Activate UPI on Your NRE/NRO Account

If you’re an NRI and want to enable UPI, follow these steps:

1. Ensure your account is UPI-enabled – Not all banks provide this service yet, so confirm with your bank.
2. Register your international mobile number – This should be linked to your NRE/NRO account.
3. Download a UPI-enabled app – Use popular options like Google Pay, PhonePe, or Paytm.
4. Verify your number and set up UPI – Follow the app’s process to create a UPI ID and link your account.
5. Start transacting – Once activated, you can make payments, transfer funds, and use UPI features seamlessly.

If your bank does not support this, you may need to explore alternatives for an account that does.

Connect with our in-house NRI banking expert Aishwariya Dev for FREE, and get solution to all your queries straight-away.

Benefits of Using UPI for NRIs

1. Convenience – No need to log in to net banking or use international cards for payments.
2. Speed – Transactions are instant, unlike remittance services that take hours or days.
3. Security – UPI is regulated by the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) and uses advanced security measures.
4. Lower Costs – UPI transactions typically have zero or minimal charges compared to credit card fees or remittance costs.
5. Easy Bill Payments – Set up auto-pay for bills, subscriptions, and utilities in India.
6. Interoperability – Works with multiple banks and payment apps, giving NRIs more flexibility.

The Bigger Picture: What This Means for NRIs

With UPI access abroad, NRIs now have an easier and faster way to manage finances in India. Whether you’re paying bills, sending money to family, or making purchases, UPI eliminates the hassle of traditional remittance services and expensive transaction fees.

But here’s the key: Not all banks support UPI for NRIs yet. To take advantage of this feature, you need an account with a bank that offers this service. If you don’t have one, it might be time to consider opening an NRE/NRO account that gives you access to UPI.

Take Advantage of UPI Now

UPI is revolutionizing the way NRIs handle money in India. If you’re still relying on outdated banking methods, now is the time to switch.

Looking to open an account that supports UPI for NRIs? Get started today and unlock seamless banking from wherever you are in the world.

FAQs

1. Will I be charged for UPI transactions?

Currently, most UPI transactions are free, but banks may impose charges for international numbers in the future. Check with your bank for details.

2. Can I use my foreign bank account for UPI?

No, UPI only works with Indian bank accounts. You need an NRE/NRO account to access it.

3. Can I send money from UPI to a foreign account?

No, UPI is designed for domestic transactions within India. However, it can be used to transfer funds between Indian bank accounts.

4. Is UPI safe for NRIs?

Absolutely. UPI follows strict security protocols, including two-factor authentication and encryption, making transactions secure. Additionally, since transactions are conducted within the Indian banking system, they are closely monitored for fraud prevention.

5. Can NRIs use UPI in India with an international mobile number?

Yes! NRIs from select countries can link their NRI bank accounts to UPI using their international mobile numbers and make payments easily.

6. Which countries are eligible for UPI access with international numbers?

As of now, NRIs from the US, UK, UAE, Canada, Australia, Singapore, and other select countries can use UPI with their NRI accounts.

7. Do I need an Indian SIM card to use UPI as an NRI?

No, you can register for UPI using your international mobile number linked to your NRI account, provided your bank supports this feature.

8. Which banks allow NRIs to use UPI with international numbers?

Banks like IDFC First Bank, ICICI Bank, and SBI have started offering UPI services for NRIs. More banks are gradually rolling out this feature.

9. Are there any extra charges for NRIs using UPI?

No, there are no additional charges for using UPI as an NRI. You can make payments just like a resident Indian without any extra fees.

10. What types of transactions can NRIs do with UPI in India?

NRIs can pay bills, shop online, transfer money within India, and even invest in mutual funds or stocks using UPI.

11. How can I activate UPI on my NRI account?

Simply download a UPI-enabled app, select your NRI bank account, and complete the registration using your international mobile number.