How NRI”s Can Use UPI with UAE Phone Numbers

In a significant move to simplify financial connections between Non-Resident Indians (NRIs) and India, NRIs can now use the Unified Payments Interface (UPI) with their international mobile numbers linked to Indian bank accounts. This update enables NRIs to handle their finances in India with greater ease and convenience, enhancing their ability to manage payments and transfer funds in real-time from abroad.

How to Activate UPI with an International Number

To start using UPI, NRIs need to link their international number to an Indian NRE or NRO account. Here’s a step-by-step guide:

1. Link Your Number: Ensure your international mobile number is connected to your NRE/NRO account.
2. Download a UPI App: Choose a UPI-compatible app like BHIM or your bank’s app.
3. Follow Setup Instructions: Complete the app’s onboarding steps.
4. Verify Your International Number: Confirm your number within the app.
5. Create Your UPI ID: Generate a unique UPI ID linked to your account.
6. Select Your Bank Account: Choose the relevant bank account to finalize the setup.

This process is quick and enables NRIs to access all the features of UPI instantly.

Key Features of UPI for NRIs

With UPI activated, NRIs can:

• Send Money in INR: Transfer funds directly to Indian bank accounts or UPI IDs.
• Pay Using QR Codes: Make payments in stores or for services via QR codes.
• Direct Bank Transfers: Conduct transactions to bank accounts, even without a UPI ID.
• Manage Multiple Accounts: Link different bank accounts with separate UPI IDs.
• No Re-registration Required: Seamlessly continue using UPI when visiting India.

UPI Restrictions for NRIs

While UPI brings greater ease, there are specific restrictions for NRIs:

• INR Only Transactions: UPI transfers are allowed only in Indian Rupees, not in foreign currencies.
• Unique UPI IDs Per Account: Multiple accounts can’t be linked to the same UPI ID.
• NRO to NRE Transfers Prohibited: Fund transfers from NRO to NRE accounts are not permitted.
• Only Indian Recipients: Payments can only be made to Indian contacts with UPI-enabled numbers.
• Primary Account Holders Only: Joint account holders cannot generate a UPI ID.

Supported Countries and Banking Partners

The UPI feature is available in key countries including the United States, United Kingdom, Australia, Singapore, Canada, and the UAE. Supported by banks like HDFC Bank, ICICI Bank, and State Bank of India, NRIs can access UPI through popular apps such as BHIM, iMobile, and FedMobile. Notably, transfers between NRE and resident accounts are permitted, while NRO to NRE transactions remain restricted.