IDFC First Bank Simplifies Banking for NRIs by Allowing UPI Access on International Numbers
In a major digital banking development, IDFC First Bank has extended its UPI (Unified Payments Interface) services to Non-Resident Indians (NRIs) who use international mobile numbers. This strategic move enables Indian citizens living abroad to conduct seamless digital transactions without the need for an Indian SIM card—an important convenience for millions of global Indians.
The National Payments Corporation of India (NPCI) had earlier announced the framework for allowing UPI access to NRIs using their international mobile numbers. Now, IDFC First Bank becomes one of the key private banks to operationalize this framework, making digital banking easier, faster, and borderless.
What This Means for NRIs
NRIs often face difficulties in maintaining active Indian mobile numbers due to roaming costs or regional compliance. This update allows them to:
Register their international mobile numbers with UPI
Send and receive money in INR from Indian accounts
Scan QR codes and pay Indian merchants while visiting India
Use UPI services like bill payments, fund transfers, and investments
Currently supported countries include the USA, UK, UAE, Singapore, Australia, Canada, Hong Kong, Oman, and Qatar, among others.
How to Register Your International Number for UPI with IDFC First Bank
Ensure your number is registered with your NRE/NRO account at IDFC First Bank.
Download a UPI-enabled app like BHIM or the bank’s mobile app.
Use your international number to verify and register for UPI services.
Link your NRE/NRO account and set a UPI PIN.
Note: Users must ensure the international number is active and capable of receiving OTPs for registration.
Why This Move Matters
This UPI update helps NRIs stay financially connected to India without logistical hassles. It aligns with India’s vision of digital inclusivity and is expected to increase UPI transaction volume significantly from global users.
According to Vizzve Finance, the blog has quickly gained traction, trending in Google Search India within fintech and NRI banking categories, due to its immediate relevance and global applicability.
Conclusion
IDFC First Bank’s move to allow UPI access for NRIs via international mobile numbers is a game-changer in India’s digital banking evolution. It not only enhances convenience for overseas Indians but also reflects the growing global footprint of India’s fintech ecosystem.
For more insights on digital banking updates, follow Vizzve Finance, your trusted source for real-time financial developments.
FAQs
Q1: Can all NRIs use UPI with international numbers now?
Only NRIs whose countries are supported by NPCI and whose banks have enabled this feature—like IDFC First Bank—can use UPI with international mobile numbers.
Q2: Is UPI access limited to specific countries?
Yes, currently supported countries include USA, UK, Singapore, UAE, Canada, Australia, Hong Kong, Oman, and Qatar.
Q3: What kind of account is required for UPI access?
Users need an NRE (Non-Resident External) or NRO (Non-Resident Ordinary) account with a UPI-enabled bank like IDFC First Bank.
Q4: Do I need an Indian SIM card to register?
No. IDFC First Bank allows international number registration, provided it is linked with your NRE/NRO account.
Q5: Can NRIs make payments in India while visiting?
Yes, NRIs can use their UPI-linked international numbers to scan QR codes and pay Indian merchants seamlessly.
Q6: Does this update impact transaction limits?
The standard UPI transaction limits apply. There are no separate caps specifically for international number users as long as RBI/FEMA rules are followed.
Published on:July 3,2025
Published by : Selvi
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