Paytm enables NRIs from 12 countries to use UPI in India with international mobile numbers—no Indian SIM required
In a major boost for the Indian diaspora, Paytm has enabled Non-Resident Indians (NRIs) from 12 countries to make UPI payments in India using their international mobile numbers linked to NRE (Non-Resident External) or NRO (Non-Resident Ordinary) accounts. This new feature allows NRIs to send money, shop online, and pay at stores in India—all without the need for an Indian SIM card, reported upstox.com.
“Non-Resident Indians from 12 countries can now log in with their international mobile numbers to our app for seamless UPI payments through NRE or NRO accounts,” Paytm announced on October 27, 2025.
The company said that NRIs can use Paytm UPI for everyday transactions—from paying bills and shopping in India to transferring money to friends and family. Users can simply scan QR codes or send money instantly to any UPI ID or mobile number linked with UPI, eliminating international transaction delays and forex charges.
“This seamless experience is now possible without international payment gateways or currency conversions,” Paytm stated.
How NRIs can use Paytm for UPI payments
To start using Paytm UPI from abroad:
- Download and open the Paytm app
- Log in with your international mobile number
- Verify the number via SMS
- Link your NRE or NRO bank account and start making UPI payments instantly
This feature enables NRIs to enjoy real-time, secure, and low-cost digital transactions, whether they live in India or abroad.
“We started Paytm with the dream of building technology made in India, for India—and now, for every Indian around the world. Allowing NRIs to use Paytm UPI with international numbers is another step in that journey,” the company said.
The 12 countries where Paytm UPI for NRIs is available:
Singapore, Australia, Canada, Hong Kong, Oman, Qatar, USA, Saudi Arabia, UAE, UK, France, and Malaysia.
Other Paytm features for UPI users:
- Download UPI statements in PDF or Excel format
- Automatic spend analysis and classification
- Option to hide payments for privacy
- View total balance across linked bank accounts
- Generate AI rap songs based on spending habits via the Playback feature
UPI goes global
Last month, UPI went live in Qatar, allowing Indian travellers to make payments at major tourist spots and Qatar Duty Free stores. Qatar National Bank (QNB), in collaboration with NPCI International Payments (NIPL), facilitated this expansion.
As of now, eight countries accept UPI payments, including Bhutan, Mauritius, Nepal, Sri Lanka, France, Singapore, UAE, and Qatar.
India’s UPI system continues to redefine digital payments globally. As of August 2025, UPI processed over 20 billion transactions valued at nearly ₹25 lakh crore—cementing its place as one of the world’s most advanced and inclusive financial technologies.
