Paytm Enables UPI for NRIs with Foreign Numbers

In a breakthrough for cross-border digital payments, Paytm has introduced UPI payment support for NRIs using international mobile numbers. Announced on 27 October 2025, this new service empowers Non-Resident Indians (NRIs) from 12 countries to make seamless UPI payments in India through the Paytm app, without needing an Indian SIM card.

What’s New in the Paytm NRI UPI Feature?

The new feature enables NRIs to,

• Make instant UPI transfers to Indian UPI IDs and mobile numbers
• Pay merchants by scanning UPI QR codes across India
• Shop online on Indian platforms using their existing NRE or NRO bank accounts
• Skip forex conversion and traditional remittance charges

Users only need to link their NRE/NRO account with the UPI ecosystem via Paytm and register using their international mobile number—a first for Indian fintech platforms.

Supported Countries

Paytm has rolled out this feature for NRIs residing in the following 12 countries,

1. United States
2. United Kingdom
3. United Arab Emirates (UAE)
4. Australia
5. Canada
6. Oman
7. Qatar
8. Saudi Arabia
9. Singapore
10. Hong Kong
11. Kuwait
12. Bahrain

This list aligns with countries where significant Indian diaspora populations reside, ensuring maximum outreach and utility.

How It Works

To access the service, NRIs must,

• Download or update the Paytm app
• Register using their international mobile number
• Link their NRE or NRO bank account that supports UPI
• Start sending money, scanning QR codes, and making digital payments across India

There’s no need for an Indian SIM card or separate UPI registration using a local number. The integration is enabled by NPCI’s international UPI guidelines, which now permit UPI access to verified foreign mobile numbers linked to eligible Indian bank accounts.

Static Facts

• Company: Paytm
• Feature Launched: 27 October 2025
• Purpose: Enable NRIs to use UPI via international mobile numbers
• Accounts Supported: NRE and NRO bank accounts
• UPI Network: NPCI
• No Indian SIM Required: Yes
• Key Services: Scan and pay QR, send money, online purchases
• Number of Countries Covered: 12