India’s Unified Payments Interface (UPI) has revolutionized domestic payments. Now, under partnership agreements led by NPCI International (NIPL), UPI is expanding globally. Indian travelers can now scan QR codes and make payments directly in Indian Rupees (INR) from their Indian bank accounts when traveling abroad. Here is a guide to countries where UPI is live and how to use it.
Table of Contents
1. The Global Expansion of UPI
2. How to Activate UPI International on Your Phone
3. List of Countries Supporting UPI Payments
4. Step-by-Step Guide: Making a UPI Payment Abroad
5. Forex Markups and Exchange Rates for UPI
6. Critical Tech Requirements (SIM Card Connectivity)
7. Inquire About Your Seamless Travel Planning
The Global Expansion of UPI
To make international travel easier for Indians, the National Payments Corporation of India (NPCI) is partnering with international merchant networks, allowing travelers to pay directly using their phone apps without carrying foreign cash or buying physical forex cards.
How to Activate UPI International on Your Phone
Before you fly out of India:
- Open your payment app (PhonePe, Google Pay, or BHIM).
- Search for “UPI International” in settings.
- Select the bank account you want to use and enter your UPI PIN to activate the service (typically valid for 90 days).
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List of Countries Supporting UPI Payments
- Singapore: Indian tourists can scan SGQR codes at merchant shops.
- United Arab Emirates (UAE): Supported at major malls, retail outlets, and duty-free shops via the NEOPAY network.
- Nepal & Bhutan: Widely accepted at retail stores.
- Sri Lanka & Mauritius: QR code scanning is active at major tourist locations.
- France: Accepted at the Eiffel Tower and select retail outlets (under expansion).
Step-by-Step Guide: Making a UPI Payment Abroad
1. Look for a compatible local QR code at the billing counter.
2. Open your activated UPI app and scan the QR code.
3. The app will display the local currency amount and the equivalent charge in Indian Rupees (INR).
4. Enter your secure UPI PIN to approve the transaction.
Forex Markups and Exchange Rates for UPI
- Rates: The exchange rates are set by the network banks and are usually very competitive compared to physical cash exchange rates.
- *Note:* Ensure your bank does not charge extra international transaction convenience fees before making large purchases.
Critical Tech Requirements (SIM Card Connectivity)
- Active SIM: To approve a UPI transaction, your primary Indian SIM card must be active on your phone with international roaming enabled, as the app requires receiving SMS and mobile network validation to complete the PIN handshake.
Inquire About Your Seamless Travel Planning
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