New Delhi: In a significant move, Non-Resident Indians (NRIs) can now access the Unified Payments Interface (UPI) using their international mobile numbers linked to their Indian bank accounts. This development simplifies payments for NRIs and enhances their ability to maintain financial ties with India.
How to Activate UPI with an International Number
To start using UPI, NRIs need to link their international number to an Indian Non-Resident External (NRE) or Non-Resident Ordinary (NRO) account. Here’s the process:
- Link international mobile number to an NRE/NRO account.
- Download a UPI app like BHIM or any UPI-supported banking app.
- Follow the app’s onboarding instructions.
- Verify the international number through the app.
- Create a unique UPI ID.
- Select the bank account linked to the UPI ID and submit.
Once completed, this setup allows NRIs to utilize UPI services fully.
What NRIs Can Do with UPI
- Transfer funds in INR to Indian accounts or UPI IDs.
- Make QR code payments for goods and services.
- Conduct bank-to-bank transfers, even without a UPI ID.
- Manage multiple accounts by setting up unique UPI IDs.
- Continue transactions smoothly when visiting India without re-registration.
Restrictions for NRIs on UPI
- Transactions are only permitted in INR; foreign currency transfers aren’t supported.
- Each bank account requires a unique UPI ID; multiple accounts cannot share one UPI ID.
- Transfers from NRO to NRE accounts are restricted.
- Payments to contacts without a valid UPI ID aren’t permitted.
- Only primary account holders can generate UPI IDs.
Supported Countries and Banking Partners
The UPI service for NRIs is supported in major countries including the United States, United Kingdom, Australia, Singapore, Canada, and the UAE. Key banks offering this service include HDFC Bank, ICICI Bank, and State Bank of India, among others, through apps like BHIM, iMobile, and FedMobile.
