With recent updates, Non-Resident Indians (NRIs) can now make money transfers to India faster and easier than ever using UPI. The National Payments Corporation of India (NPCI) has enabled UPI access for NRIs with NRE (Non-Resident External) or NRO (Non-Resident Ordinary) accounts, letting them link international mobile numbers directly to UPI for instant transactions. This guide will answer all your questions on how NRIs can link international numbers to UPI, supported apps, eligible banks, restrictions, and benefits of this new feature.

What is UPI for NRIs and How Does It Work?

Unified Payments Interface (UPI) is an instant, real-time payment system that allows seamless fund transfers between bank accounts in India. Previously, NRIs couldn’t access UPI with international numbers, but now, with NPCI’s UPI expansion, NRIs with NRE and NRO accounts can link their international mobile numbers to make transfers, pay for goods and services, and manage bank accounts directly from their smartphones.

How Can NRIs Link Their International Mobile Numbers to UPI?

Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to set up UPI with your international mobile number:

• Link Your International Number to Your NRE or NRO Account: First, connect your international mobile number with your Indian bank account.
• Download a UPI-Compatible App: Choose a UPI app that supports international numbers, such as BHIM, ICICI Bank’s iMobile, or Federal Bank’s FedMobile.
• Onboard and Verify: Follow the onboarding instructions in the app to verify your international mobile number.
• Set Up Your UPI ID: Create a unique UPI ID linked to your chosen bank account.
• Start Transacting: Once verified, you’re ready to transfer money, pay for services, and more directly via UPI.

Which UPI Apps and Banks Support NRIs with International Mobile Numbers?

Some of the UPI-powered apps that support international mobile numbers for NRIs include:

• Federal Bank (FedMobile)
• ICICI Bank (iMobile)
• IndusInd Bank (BHIM Indus Pay)
• South Indian Bank (SIB Mirror+)
• AU Small Finance Bank (BHIM AU)
• PhonePe
• BHIM

Popular banks that allow international number linkage to UPI include:

• Axis Bank
• Canara Bank
• City Union Bank
• DBS Bank
• Equitas Small Finance Bank

What Can NRIs Do with UPI?

UPI provides a range of convenient features for NRIs, allowing them to:

• Transfer Funds Instantly: Send money in Indian Rupees to any UPI ID or Indian bank account.
• Pay for Goods and Services Using QR Codes: UPI enables seamless payments with just a scan.
• Make Direct Bank-to-Bank Transfers: Send money without needing a UPI ID for the recipient.
• Manage Multiple Bank Accounts: NRIs can link different bank accounts with unique UPI IDs.
• Conduct Transactions While Visiting India: NRIs don’t need to re-register UPI on Indian visits.

What Are the Limitations for NRIs Using UPI?

While UPI offers NRIs numerous benefits, there are some restrictions to keep in mind:

• Transactions Only in INR: UPI does not support foreign currency transfers.
• Separate UPI IDs Required for Each Bank Account: You can’t link multiple accounts to the same UPI ID.
• No NRO to NRE Transfers: Funds cannot be transferred from an NRO to an NRE account.
• Only Primary Account Holders Eligible for UPI ID Creation: Joint account holders can’t use this feature.

Which Countries Support UPI for NRIs?

UPI for NRIs is supported in major countries with a large Indian diaspora, including:

• United States
• United Kingdom
• Australia
• Singapore
• Canada
• United Arab Emirates (UAE)

Why Should NRIs Use UPI Over Traditional Money Transfer Methods?

Compared to traditional wire transfers, UPI offers NRIs a faster, more affordable, and convenient way to send money to India. UPI’s instant transfers eliminate intermediary banks, saving both time and fees. Plus, UPI transactions are directly processed in Indian Rupees, which makes managing funds in India simpler for NRIs.

FAQs on UPI for NRIs

Can NRIs use UPI from any location?
Yes, as long as your bank account supports international mobile numbers for UPI.

Is UPI free for NRIs?
Most UPI transactions are free or carry minimal fees, making it highly economical.

Can NRIs pay Indian merchants with UPI?
Absolutely! With UPI, NRIs can make payments to any Indian merchant by scanning QR codes, just like resident Indians.

Can I use UPI for NRO account transfers?
Yes, but only within India. NRO to NRE account transfers are not allowed.

Final Thoughts

For NRIs, UPI is a game-changing option for faster and smoother money transfers to India. With simple setup steps, numerous supported apps and banks, and a wide range of transaction features, UPI is now one of the best choices for NRIs looking to manage finances in India from abroad. Start using UPI today to simplify your financial connections with India!

This UPI feature is a major development for NRIs, providing an easy and affordable way to stay financially connected to India. Explore dineshaarjav.com for more information on financial updates for NRIs.