Use UPI With International SIMs Cards From These 12 Countries For Free Of Cost; Know How | Savings and Investments News

Last Updated:
NRI customers of this Bank can now make UPI payments in India using their international mobile numbers; Here’s how

UPI Transaction Using International SIM
UPI Transactions From International Numbers: Non-Resident Indian (NRI) customers of IDFC First Bank can now make UPI payments in India using their international mobile numbers, without any additional charges. This new feature is available to all NRE and NRO account holders from 12 countries: Australia, Canada, France, Hong Kong, Malaysia, Oman, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, Singapore, the United Arab Emirates (UAE), the United Kingdom, and the United States of America (USA).
UPI on International Numbers—No Indian SIM Required
According to a press release dated June 25, 2025, IDFC First Bank announced that its NRI customers can link their NRE or NRO accounts to any UPI-enabled app, such as Google Pay, PhonePe, Paytm, and others, using their international mobile numbers.
For example, an IDFC First Bank customer living in Dubai with an Etisalat or Du SIM can now make UPI payments in India directly through Google Pay, provided they hold an NRE or NRO account with the bank.
Key Features of the New UPI Facility
The new service is designed to help NRIs manage their India-based finances with greater ease and security. Here are the highlights:
- No Indian SIM Required: Link UPI to your NRE/NRO account using your international number.
- Instant Transactions: Send/receive money, pay bills using UPI ID, QR code, or mobile number.
- Zero Transaction Fees: All payments are free of charge.
- Secure & Reliable: Enjoy domestic-grade UPI security standards.
The feature supports INR-denominated transactions within India and ensures that NRIs are not charged any foreign exchange fees while transacting from abroad.
How to Set Up UPI with International Number (IDFC First Bank App)
Step 1: Log in to the IDFC First Bank mobile app and tap on ‘Pay’
Step 2: Link your NRE/NRO bank account
Step 3: Create a UPI ID and begin making payments
Ashish Singh, Head of Retail Liabilities at IDFC First Bank, said: “Our vision has always been to simplify and enhance banking, making it accessible no matter where our customers are located. The launch of UPI services on international mobile numbers is a testament to our commitment to innovation and catering to the unique needs of the NRI diaspora.”
This latest feature strengthens IDFC First Bank’s offerings for overseas Indians, enabling seamless digital transactions without the need for an Indian mobile number.

Aparna Deb is a Subeditor and writes for the business vertical of News18.com. She has a nose for news that matters. She is inquisitive and curious about things. Among other things, financial markets, economy, a…Read More
Aparna Deb is a Subeditor and writes for the business vertical of News18.com. She has a nose for news that matters. She is inquisitive and curious about things. Among other things, financial markets, economy, a… Read More
- First Published: