UPI Goes Global: How Indians Can Use PhonePe, GPay Abroad

UPI is India’s most commonly used digital payments system where money can be securely transferred from a bank account instantly. Now, UPI is not confined to India. It has already spread to many other countries so that it can be easy to make payments while traveling or living outside of India.

Which Countries You Can Use UPI in?

Indians can now use their UPI in several international destinations. They are France, Bhutan, Nepal, Oman, UAE, Malaysia, Thailand, Philippines, Vietnam, Singapore, Cambodia, Hong Kong, Taiwan, South Korea, Japan, the United Kingdom, and some parts of Europe.

Indians traveling abroad can pay from UPI-enabled apps such as PhonePe, Google Pay, Paytm, and Amazon Pay. These apps are linked to the Indian bank account or UPI ID to make the payment easier and quicker.

How to Use UPI apps when abroad

To use UPI apps outside India, follow these instructions:

1. Open any UPI app on your phone. If you do not have one, download a UPI app for example: PhonePe, Paytm, or Google Pay.
2. Register your Indian bank account with the UPI app of your choice.
3. Once set up, enter the receiver: bank account number, IBAN, or BIC code.
4. Enter the amount you want to send, and choose the currency.
5. Success! Confirm Your Transaction. After you have completed the transaction you will receive confirmation.

Be aware international payments may incur additional fees. These may be currency conversion fees or foreign exchange fees. It will depend on the transaction.

How NRIs Can Use UPI

NRIs (Non-Resident Indians) are also able to utilize UPI for these transactions, here’s how:

Download any of the UPI apps; for example, you could use Google Pay, Paytm, or PhonePe.
When you register the app, you will register your NRE or NRO account.
You then will link your Indian mobile phone number and bank information.
After you have linked your account, you can then send money to any UPI user in India.

You can also use UPI in India, and where UPI is accepted in stores to pay for services and purchases.

Which make UPI very convenient for NRIs looking to send money back to their homes, or purchase during visits back in India.

Why UPI Abroad is important

UPI abroad makes it very simple for Indians to conduct cross border transactions. No need to lug around cash or pay extra for international transactions through a credit or debit card. It also helps to establish trust because the system is secure, and linked directly to Indian public banks.

Also Read: FASTag Fraud Alert: How To Protect Your Account From Online Scams