India’s Unified Payments Interface (UPI) has revolutionized digital payments within the country, offering speed, convenience, and security to its users. As the popularity of UPI continues to soar domestically, there is an increasing demand for its availability beyond India’s borders (UPI outside India). Recognizing this need, the Government of India has extended UPI payments in foreign countries, catering to both Indian travelers and Non-Resident Indians (NRIs).
UPI Payments Worldwide: Expanding Accessibility
To make transactions seamless for Indians traveling abroad, the Government of India has enabled UPI in foreign countries worldwide, including France, UAE, Nepal, Bhutan, and others. This move allows Indian travelers to utilize UPI payment apps like PhonePe, Amazon Pay, Google Pay, Paytm, and more for digital transactions while overseas. With UPI IDs or linked bank accounts, users can confidently conduct secure transactions in foreign lands.
List of Countries with UPI Availability
The UPI payment system is currently available in the following countries, making it convenient for Indian travelers to make online payments outside India:
- France
- Bhutan
- Nepal
- Oman
- UAE
- Malaysia
- Thailand
- Philippines
- Vietnam
- Singapore
- Cambodia
- Hong Kong
- Taiwan
- South Korea
- Japan
- United Kingdom
- Europe
Using UPI Outside India: A Step-by-Step Guide
For travelers visiting any of the countries where UPI is accessible, conducting transactions through UPI-enabled apps is a straightforward process. Here’s a step-by-step guide:
Step 1: Download or open a UPI-enabled mobile app such as PhonePe, Google Pay, or Paytm, offering international UPI transactions.
Step 2: Register your Indian bank account with the selected app.
Step 3: Link the recipient’s details, including their bank account number, IBAN, BIC, transfer amount, and currency.
Step 4: Upon completing the transaction, a confirmation message will be received.
Also Read: UPI payments fail or stuck? Tips to complete your transaction
Important Considerations for International UPI Transactions
While UPI simplifies payments overseas, users should be aware of the following factors:
- Transaction fees, including conversion charges and foreign exchange fees, may apply.
- The rollout of UPI in foreign countries is gradual; availability may vary among the listed nations.
UPI for NRIs: Easing Transactions with India
Non-Resident Indians (NRIs) can also leverage UPI to facilitate transactions with India.
Step 1: Download a UPI-enabled mobile app like PhonePe, Google Pay, or Paytm.
Step 2: Register your NRE or NRO account with the chosen app.
Step 3: Provide your Indian mobile number and bank account details.
Step 4: Start using UPI to make payments to other Indian users with UPI IDs.
Step 5: Enjoy the convenience of using UPI at Indian merchant outlets for purchases.
Conclusion
The extension of India’s Unified Payments Interface (UPI) to international countries has brought immense convenience to Indian travelers and NRIs alike. With its secure and user-friendly approach, UPI has emerged as a preferred mode of digital payment not only within India but also you can do UPI outside india. As UPI continues to gain traction worldwide, it is expected to foster a cashless and seamless payment experience, empowering individuals to transact effortlessly wherever they may be.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Unified Payments Interface (UPI) is a digital payment method in India that allows users to make fast, convenient, and secure transactions using their UPI ID or bank account number. It has gained popularity in India due to its ease of use and widespread acceptance among banks and merchants.
Yes, the Government of India has made UPI payments available in several international countries, allowing Indian travelers to use UPI-enabled apps for digital transactions abroad.
UPI payments are currently available in several countries, including France, Bhutan, Nepal, UAE, Malaysia, Thailand, Philippines, Vietnam, Singapore, Cambodia, Hong Kong, Taiwan, South Korea, Japan, the United Kingdom, and Europe.
You can use UPI-enabled apps such as PhonePe, Amazon Pay, Google Pay, and Paytm for making international transactions in the countries where UPI is available.
To use UPI for transactions abroad, you need to download or open a UPI-enabled mobile app, register your Indian bank account with the app, provide the recipient’s bank account details, transfer amount, and currency, and complete the transaction.
Yes, there may be certain fees associated with international UPI transactions, such as conversion charges and foreign exchange fees. These fees may vary depending on the UPI app and the specific transaction.
The rollout of UPI in foreign countries is gradual, so it may not be available in all the listed countries. However, the Government of India is continuously working to expand UPI’s accessibility globally.
Yes, NRIs can use UPI to facilitate transactions with India. They can download UPI-enabled apps, register their NRE or NRO account, and start making payments to other Indian users with UPI IDs.
Yes, NRIs can use UPI for payments at Indian merchant outlets, allowing them to conveniently pay for goods and services in India.
Yes, UPI is a secure mode of payment for international transactions. It uses two-factor authentication, ensuring that your transactions are protected from unauthorized access.
Yes, UPI can be used for both personal and business transactions while traveling abroad, making it a versatile option for various payment needs.
UPI offers Indian travelers and NRIs a seamless and cashless payment experience, allowing them to make quick and secure transactions while avoiding the hassle of carrying cash or dealing with international currency conversions.
Transaction limits for international UPI payments may vary depending on the UPI app and your bank. It is advisable to check with your bank or the respective UPI app for the latest transaction limits.
Yes, UPI allows you to make transactions in various currencies, making it convenient for international payments.
If you face any issues with UPI transactions while traveling abroad, you can reach out to the customer support of your UPI app or your bank for assistance and resolution.
While UPI enables a wide range of transactions, it’s essential to check for any specific restrictions imposed by the UPI app or the regulations of the country you’re in. Generally, UPI can be used for person-to-person (P2P) transfers, bill payments, online shopping, and more.
Yes, some UPI apps allow you to link multiple Indian bank accounts, giving you the flexibility to choose the desired account for international transactions.