NRIs Can Now Use UPI for Free Transactions in India: Here’s What You Need to Know.

Non-Resident Indians (NRIs) holding NRE or NRO accounts can now make UPI transactions through their smartphones linked to international mobile numbers. This new option, introduced by the National Payments Corporation of India (NPCI), makes it easy for NRIs to send money to family or pay bills in India without the need for regular bank transfers.

Key Features of NRI UPI Transactions

• No Transaction Fees: NRIs from countries like the US, UK, Canada, UAE, Singapore, and Australia can use UPI for free, even while abroad.
• Supported by Major Banks: Popular banks like HDFC, ICICI, Axis, Canara, and PNB support this service, and NRIs can use apps such as PhonePe, iMobile, and BHIM to make transactions.
• Transaction Limits: There’s a daily limit of ?1 lakh. New users start with a limit of ?5,000 for the first 24 hours. UPI can be used for payments between NRE/NRO and resident Indian accounts, though it doesn’t work for transfers between NRO and NRE accounts. Only the primary holder in joint accounts can access UPI.

How NRIs Can Set Up UPI

NRIs need to link their international mobile number to their NRE or NRO bank account, download a UPI app, verify their number, create a UPI ID, and activate their account. This setup allows them to start making easy, fee-free payments in India.