The digital revolution ignited by UPI has transformed India’s payment landscape, offering unparalleled convenience and accessibility. While UPI has firmly established itself as the go-to digital payment method within the country, its influence extends beyond national borders, allowing users to harness its capabilities even while traveling abroad.
What is UPI?
Unified Payments Interface (UPI) stands as a hallmark of India’s digital payment ecosystem. Developed by the National Payments Corporation of India (NPCI), UPI facilitates seamless peer-to-peer and peer-to-merchant transactions, leveraging mobile technology and unique identifiers such as virtual payment addresses (VPAs) or QR codes. Its user-friendly interface, instant fund transfers, and absence of transaction fees have made it immensely popular among Indian consumers.
List of Countries Accepting UPI Payments Abroad
While primarily designed for domestic transactions, UPI has gradually transcended national boundaries, gaining acceptance in select countries worldwide. Here’s a detailed look at the nations where UPI payments are officially recognized:
Bhutan: Bhutan stands as one of the earliest adopters of UPI outside India, having integrated the system in 2021. Through collaboration with the Royal Monetary Authority of Bhutan and NPCI International Payments Ltd., UPI has seamlessly infiltrated Bhutan’s payment landscape. Whether exploring the scenic beauty of Thimphu or shopping in Paro’s local markets, UPI offers a convenient payment solution for travelers.
Singapore: Singapore embraced UPI in September 2021, marking another milestone in its global expansion. Travelers visiting this vibrant city-state can now leverage UPI for transactions, alongside the convenience of RuPay debit and credit cards. It’s worth noting the maximum daily transaction limits, ensuring a smooth payment experience for users.
Oman: UPI’s presence in Oman since October 2022 signifies a significant step in its international journey. Facilitated by a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between NPCI, NPCI International Payments Ltd., and the Central Bank of Oman (CBO), UPI transactions are accessible across OmanNet network ATMs, e-commerce platforms, and point-of-sale terminals.
Sri Lanka: Various merchant locations in Sri Lanka accommodate UPI payments, fostering seamless transactions for Indian travelers. Leveraging QR code-based payments under network-to-network agreements, UPI users can enjoy hassle-free shopping experiences across the island nation.
France: Through collaboration with Lyra, NPCI International Payments Ltd. introduced UPI in France, enhancing payment convenience for Indian tourists exploring the romantic streets of Paris or the picturesque countryside. Activating international UPI ensures smooth transactions at partnered merchants across the country.
UAE: With the interlinking of UAE’s AANI and India’s UPI, travelers can now utilize UPI in the UAE, complemented by the integration of RuPay credit/debit cards with JAYWAN. Whether indulging in retail therapy in Dubai’s malls or dining at Abu Dhabi’s finest restaurants, UPI offers a convenient payment solution.
Nepal: The integration of fast payment systems between Nepal’s National Payments Interface (NPI) and India’s Unified Payments Interface (UPI) facilitates seamless bank transfers for travelers. UPI users can make instant payments using their mobile devices, enhancing convenience during their Nepal adventures.
Mauritius: As a favored destination for Indian travelers, Mauritius joins the ranks of South Asian countries embracing UPI transactions. Through the IPS mobile application, UPI users can make payments conveniently, whether lounging on pristine beaches or exploring the island’s cultural heritage.
Other countries, including Greece, Bahrain, Sri Lanka, and Malaysia, have also begun accepting UPI, signaling its growing international footprint.
Activating UPI Payments Abroad
To utilize UPI overseas, users must activate international payments within their preferred UPI application. Accessing the application’s settings, users can navigate to the ‘Payment management’ section and opt for the ‘international’ option. After validating the selection with their UPI pin, users gain access to international payments for a specified duration, typically six months.
