UPI Transactions from International Numbers: If you live abroad and want to send money to family or friends in India, you no longer need an Indian mobile number.
IDFC First Bank has launched a new service allowing NRI customers to make UPI payments using their international mobile numbers.
This service started on 25 June 2025 and is specially made for Indians living overseas who operate bank accounts in India.
Which Countries Can Use This Facility?
This move by IDFC First Bank is a big benefit for lakhs of NRIs. Now, even without an Indian number, they can use UPI to transfer money.
This service is currently available in 12 countries: Australia, Canada, France, Hong Kong, Malaysia, Oman, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, Singapore, UAE, UK, and USA.
IDFC First’s NRE or NRO account holders in these countries can now use UPI apps like Google Pay, PhonePe, and Paytm from their international numbers.
What Are the Key Features of This Service?
No Indian SIM Required – You can now link your UPI account with your international mobile number.
Instant Payments – Sending money, paying bills, scanning QR codes, or using UPI IDs is now faster and easier.
No Extra Fees – There are no additional charges on any UPI transaction.
Secure Transactions – This service provides the same level of safety as UPI payments within India.
INR Transactions Only – All payments will be done in Indian Rupees. No foreign exchange fees will be charged.
How to Set It Up?
Open the IDFC First Bank mobile app and go to the ‘Pay’ section.
Link your NRE/NRO account.
Create a new UPI ID and start making payments right away.
Ashish Singh, Retail Banking Head at IDFC First Bank, said the bank aims to make banking simple and accessible from anywhere.
The UPI service with an international number is part of this vision and will be very helpful for Indians living overseas.
