Using UPI Abroad: Where It Works, How to Enable It and What It Costs

UPI has become the default way to pay in India, and it is slowly expanding to other countries so that Indian travellers can scan a QR code and pay in the local currency from their rupee bank account. The list of countries keeps growing, but the facility is not universal yet, so it helps to know how it works and to carry a backup.

How international UPI works

NPCI International, the international arm of the National Payments Corporation of India, signs agreements with payment networks and banks in other countries. A merchant there displays a QR code of the local network that is linked with UPI. You scan it with your UPI app, the amount is shown in the local currency along with the rupee equivalent, and you approve with your UPI PIN. The bank converts the amount and debits your rupee account.

Where it works

UPI acceptance has been introduced in several neighbouring and travel destinations, including Bhutan, Nepal, Sri Lanka, Singapore, the UAE, Mauritius and France, with more being added. It also works only at merchants who have joined the arrangement, not at every shop. Because the list changes, check the current country list on the NPCI website or your app before you travel, and look for the UPI logo at the merchant.

How to enable it

1. Open your UPI app and look for the international payments or "UPI International" setting under your bank account or profile.
2. Activate it for a chosen period, since this is usually switched off by default for safety. Some apps ask you to set a limit.
3. Make sure your bank account permits international UPI, since not every bank does, and keep your KYC up to date.
4. Check that your mobile number, with roaming data, will be reachable. UPI needs the SIM linked to your bank account for verification, and an OTP or SMS may be required.
5. Try a small payment first when you arrive.

Costs

You pay the exchange rate applied by your bank, plus any markup it adds, and sometimes a fee for international transactions. Compare the cost with a forex card or a credit card with no foreign-exchange markup. Domestic UPI payments are generally free for users, but international ones can differ, so look at your bank's schedule. For a rough conversion use the currency converter, remembering that rates in it are indicative and the bank's actual rate decides the amount.

Limits

A per-transaction limit, a daily limit and sometimes a lower cap for international use apply, and these depend on your bank and the destination. Large purchases such as hotels may require a card.

Comparing options for travellers

Safety tips

• Scan only QR codes displayed by the merchant at the counter and confirm the name that appears before paying.
• Never share your UPI PIN, and do not accept "collect" requests from strangers.
• Switch international UPI off when you return, if the app allows it.
• Keep a second payment method in case the network or app fails.
• Keep records of transactions for expense tracking, and use a travel budget planner to set a daily limit.

Common problems and fixes

• Payment fails after the PIN: check that international UPI is still active, since it may switch off after the period you set, and that your roaming data is working.
• Amount shown in rupees looks higher than expected: compare the merchant's local amount, the exchange rate and any markup before approving.
• Debit but no confirmation: keep the transaction ID and screenshot, ask the merchant to confirm receipt and raise a dispute with your bank if it is not settled.
• App not working abroad: keep your bank's international helpline number saved offline.

Limits of the facility

UPI works for payments at merchants. It cannot be used to send money abroad to individuals, which falls under the foreign exchange rules and the Liberalised Remittance Scheme. Rules and country lists change, so rely on current announcements from NPCI and your bank.

Frequently asked questions

Does UPI work in all countries?

No. It works in selected countries at merchants that accept it. Check the current list before you travel.

Do I need to enable international UPI?

Yes. It is usually switched off by default and must be activated in your UPI app for a set period.

Are there charges on international UPI payments?

There can be a currency conversion markup and sometimes fees. Check your bank.

Can I send money abroad through UPI?

No. UPI international is for merchant payments, not remittances to individuals.

Should I still carry a card or cash?

Yes. Acceptance is limited, so keep a backup.

Is it safe to use UPI abroad?

Yes if you follow the usual precautions: pay only genuine merchant QR codes and never share your PIN.

Last reviewed 8 November 2026. Rates, limits and rules change, so confirm figures with the official source before you act.