How NRIs can use UPI for instant, no-fee transactions abroad

The National Payments Corporation of India (NPCI) now permits NRIs to access the Unified Payments Interface (UPI) using international phone numbers linked to their Indian bank accounts, specifically Non-Resident External (NRE) and Non-Resident Ordinary (NRO) accounts. This update enables NRIs to complete transactions using popular payment platforms such as PhonePe, Google Pay, and iMobile Pay without the need for an Indian mobile number.

The initiative simplifies payments for NRIs, allowing them to conveniently handle domestic financial obligations like utility bills or family support from overseas. Previously, NRIs faced limitations with UPI services because they required an Indian phone number linked to their account, creating an obstacle for those living abroad. Now, as long as they have an NRE or NRO account with a UPI-enabled bank, NRIs can complete transactions smoothly, using their international numbers.

This development benefits a broad spectrum of users across different countries and regions. NRIs in regions like the UAE, the US, and Europe often struggle with the logistical challenge of maintaining active Indian phone numbers for such transactions. With this policy, users from these regions can access UPI with their foreign numbers, reducing dependency on physical money transfers or traditional remittance methods that often come with fees and delays.

Source: livemint.com