IDFC First Bank Launches UPI Support for International Mobile Numbers – Major Relief for NRIs

In a significant move to simplify cross-border financial transactions, IDFC First Bank has introduced a groundbreaking UPI payment facility that allows NRI customers to send money to India using their international mobile numbers. This new feature, rolled out on June 25, 2025, marks a huge milestone in digital banking for Indians living abroad.

Now Send UPI Payments Without Indian Mobile Numbers

Until now, one of the biggest barriers for NRIs wanting to use Unified Payments Interface (UPI) was the need for an Indian mobile number linked with their bank account. With this upgrade, IDFC First Bank becomes one of the first banks in India to allow UPI payments directly through international mobile numbers, provided the user holds an NRE (Non-Resident External) or NRO (Non-Resident Ordinary) account with the bank.

Supported Countries for UPI via International Numbers

This facility is available to Indian residents living in 12 countries, namely:

• Australia

• Canada

• France

• Hong Kong

• Malaysia

• Oman

• Qatar

• Saudi Arabia

• Singapore

• United Arab Emirates (UAE)

• United Kingdom (UK)

• United States of America (USA)

This change is especially important for millions of NRIs who earlier faced difficulties or had to rely on costly remittance services to send money to their families in India.

Apps Supported and How to Use the Service

This new UPI capability is compatible with major UPI apps, including Google Pay, PhonePe, Paytm, and others.

To use this service, follow these steps:

1. Download the IDFC First Bank Mobile Banking App.

2. Log in with your credentials linked to your NRE/NRO account.

3. Tap on the ‘Pay’ option.

4. Link your NRE/NRO account.

5. Create a new UPI ID based on your international number.

6. Start using the UPI feature to send or receive payments from your global number.

The entire setup is done via the bank’s mobile app, ensuring security and ease of use. With this feature, NRIs no longer need an Indian SIM card to use UPI in India.

A Big Win for Cross-Border Financial Connectivity

This initiative significantly enhances the digital banking ecosystem by aligning with RBI’s vision to globalize UPI. It not only brings convenience to users abroad but also strengthens financial inclusion for overseas Indians.

IDFC First Bank’s move comes at a time when digital payments are surging globally, and India is rapidly becoming a leader in fintech innovation. This facility also ensures that users’ transactions remain secure and regulated under Indian banking norms.

Author Profile

Kuldeep Singh Chundawat

My name is Kuldeep Singh Chundawat. I am an experienced content writer with several years of expertise in the field. Currently, I contribute to Daily Kiran, creating engaging and informative content across a variety of categories including technology, health, travel, education, and automobiles. My goal is to deliver accurate, insightful, and captivating information through my words to help readers stay informed and empowered.

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