Non-Resident Indians (NRIs) can now use UPI (Unified Payments Interface) to make payments through their international mobile numbers while living abroad.
Earlier, NRIs had to maintain an Indian mobile number to use UPI, which posed challenges for many. This change brings relief to NRIs who frequently use UPI for transactions from abroad.
No Need for an Indian Mobile Number Anymore
The National Payments Corporation of India (NPCI) has announced that NRIs in 10 countries can now use UPI with their Non-Resident External (NRE) or Non-Resident Ordinary (NRO) accounts linked to their international mobile numbers.
Previously, NRIs were required to keep an Indian mobile number active to access UPI.
ICICI Bank Leads the Way in UPI for NRIs
ICICI Bank is among the first to provide UPI access to NRIs through its iMobile Pay app. NRI customers can now make payments using their international mobile numbers linked to their NRE or NRO accounts.
This new functionality allows NRIs to pay utility bills, shop online, and transfer money by scanning Indian QR codes, making transactions easier.
Countries Where UPI for NRIs is Available
Currently, NRIs can use UPI through international mobile numbers in the following 10 countries:
- United States
- United Kingdom
- UAE
- Canada
- Singapore
- Australia
- Hong Kong
- Oman
- Qatar
- Saudi Arabia
NRIs must link their international mobile number to their NRE or NRO accounts, and banks will ensure compliance with regulations like FEMA.
How to Create a UPI ID for NRIs
To create a UPI ID through the ICICI iMobile Pay app, follow these steps:
- Log In: Open the iMobile Pay app and log in.
- UPI Payment: Click on the UPI payment option.
- Mobile Verification: Verify your mobile number through an SMS.
- Create UPI ID: Go to Manage > My Profile, select your NRE or NRO account, and create your UPI ID.
This new facility simplifies payment processes for NRIs, allowing them to seamlessly use UPI without the need for an Indian mobile number.
