India’s digital payment system has evolved rapidly, and in 2025, it has become more inclusive than ever. Making UPI payments for foreigners in India is now a practical reality, empowering international students, NRIs, tourists, and foreign professionals to navigate daily transactions with ease. This comprehensive guide will walk you through everything you need to know, with real-world examples, practical tips, and deep insights.
Understanding UPI and Why It Matters
The Unified Payments Interface (UPI), launched by the National Payments Corporation of India (NPCI), allows instant mobile-based transactions between banks. It’s widely accepted across India, from local kirana shops to premium restaurants and is now available to foreigners under regulated frameworks.
Making UPI payments for foreigners in India isn’t just about convenience; it’s about participating in India’s digital economy. Whether you’re grabbing street food in Mumbai or paying hostel fees in Delhi, UPI simplifies the process.
What’s New in 2025? UPI One World and NRI Integration
Read more: How To Transfer Money From Forex Card To A Bank Account?
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UPI One World: Seamless Access for Foreign Visitors
This new offering allows visitors from G20 countries to use UPI via a Prepaid Payment Instrument (PPI) wallet. No Indian bank account is needed. After a simple KYC process with your passport and visa, the wallet is activated on your international mobile number. You can load it with INR using a debit/credit/forex card and start making payments via UPI QR codes.
UPI for NRIs: Global Mobile Number Integration
NRIs from countries like the USA, UK, UAE, Canada, and Australia can now link their NRE/NRO bank accounts to UPI apps using international mobile numbers. Supported banks include ICICI, HDFC, and SBI, among others. This breakthrough removes the previous requirement for an Indian mobile number.
Also read: Guide to Enable International Payments on SBI Cards
Who Is Eligible for UPI Access in India?
- Foreign nationals from G20 countries with valid passport and visas (via UPI One World)
- International students enrolled in Indian institutions
- Parents of students visiting India
- Tourists and business travelers from supported geographies
- NRIs with NRE/NRO accounts and foreign mobile numbers (from 12 approved countries)
How to Get Started: Step-by-Step Access Guide
Method 1: UPI One World
- Verify Eligibility: Must be from a G20 country with a valid visa/passport.
- Physical KYC: Visit authorized centers with your passport and visa.
- Load Wallet: Use credit/debit/forex cards to top up with INR.
- Start Paying: Scan UPI QR codes at any merchant.
Know more: How to Withdraw Money from Your Forex Card?
Method 2: Traditional UPI for NRIs
- Check Bank Support: Confirm your bank supports UPI with foreign numbers.
- Download UPI App: Apps like PhonePe, BHIM, Google Pay, or Paytm.
- Register & Link Account: Complete onboarding using your international number.
Transaction Limits and Costs
- Daily UPI Limit: ₹1 lakh/day or 20 transactions (bank-specific limits apply)
- Category-Specific Limits: Up to ₹2 lakh for sectors like insurance, capital markets, and inward remittance
- Charges: Most UPI transactions are free. Minimal wallet loading fees may apply depending on the card provider.
Also read: The Ultimate Travel Companion: Forex Card Vs Cash
Where Can Foreigners Use UPI?
Education
- University tuition and hostel fees
- Exam fees and campus bookstore purchases
Daily Life
- Restaurants, cafes, groceries, malls
- Metro/bus/taxi fares and utility bills
Travel and Tourism
- Hotel bookings and guided tours
- Local attractions and entertainment venues
Healthcare
- Pharmacy bills, consultations, and emergency expenses
Making UPI payments for foreigners in India makes these activities fast, contactless, and secure.
Must read: How To Transfer Money From Forex Card To A Bank Account
Common Challenges & Practical Fixes
1. Setup Confusion: KYC steps may be unclear
- Fix: Prepare all documents in advance. Visit KYC centers during business hours.
2. Limited Merchant Awareness
- Fix: Carry a backup card. Politely inform merchants about UPI One World.
3. Verification Issues with Foreign Numbers
- Fix: Ensure roaming is activated. If staying longer, get an Indian SIM for app access.
4. Bank Restrictions Vary
- Fix: Speak directly with your bank. Not all support UPI for foreign numbers equally.
Here’s how making UPI payments for foreigners in India compares with the local experience from onboarding to everyday usage and smart hacks.
Regulatory Limits
- Transfers from NRO to NRE accounts are restricted
- Large transactions may trigger additional compliance checks
Security Best Practices
- Never share your UPI PIN or OTP
- Confirm QR code authenticity before scanning
- Use secure internet only
- Monitor your UPI transactions regularly
Making UPI payments for foreigners in India also requires maintaining document security and understanding foreign exchange regulations.
Introducing HOP Remit by moneyHOP
While UPI is ideal for payments within India, HOP Remit makes international money transfers simple. It offers:
- Transfers to 60+ countries
- Lowest exchange rates
- Zero hidden charges
- Paperless 2-minute onboarding
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Future of UPI Access for Foreigners
NPCI International aims to expand UPI to 4–6 more countries by the end of 2025. This will further simplify making UPI payments for foreigners in India. Expect better onboarding flows, broader app support, and more merchant awareness.
Checklist Before and During Your Stay
Before Traveling
- Check if your bank supports UPI
- Activate international roaming
- Download UPI apps and test them
- Carry documents like passport and visa for KYC
During Your Stay
- Start with small transactions
- Keep a backup payment method
- Track expenses
- Save your bank’s helpline contacts
Managing International Finances
- Use HOP Remit for cross-border transfers
- Align UPI use with your budget plan
- Be aware of forex conversion implications
Conclusion: Your Digital Journey Starts Now
Making UPI payments for foreigners in India is now not just possible but seamless, secure, and efficient. Whether you’re a student, a visiting parent, a tourist, or an NRI, this digital access helps you engage with India like a local.
Choose the right UPI access method for your status (UPI One World or NRI-linked traditional UPI) and use HOP Remit by moneyHOP for international transfers. When combined, they offer full control of your financial needs, both local and global.
Now that you’re equipped with everything you need to know, go ahead and experience India the smart, cashless way.
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