UPI Global — International UPI: Complete 101 Guide

Last updated: March 2026

What is UPI Global?

UPI Global is the international expansion of India’s Unified Payments Interface, enabling UPI transactions outside India.

Vision

  • Enable Indians to pay globally via UPI
  • Allow tourists to use UPI in India
  • Promote India Stack as DPI export

Countries Live

CountryStatusLaunch
SingaporeLive2023
UAELive2024
FrancePilot2024
UKPilot2025
USAPilot2025
NepalLive2024
BhutanLive2024

How UPI Global Works

For Indians Abroad

  1. Use existing UPI app with international SIM
  2. Transaction routes through partner bank
  3. Foreign exchange at real-time rates
  4. Merchant receives in local currency

For Tourists in India

  1. Download BHIM or partner app
  2. Link international card/account
  3. Scan QR to pay in India
  4. Settlement in home currency

Global Adoption

Partner Networks

  • Visa/Mastercard: Card integration
  • Local Banks: Payment acceptance
  • P2P Platforms: Cross-border transfers

India Stack Global

  • DPI export initiative
  • Model replicated in other countries
  • Technical assistance to governments

Consumer Rights

  • Exchange rate transparency
  • Fraud protection (same as domestic UPI)
  • 24/7 customer support
  • Dispute resolution via RBI