In our globalized world, where travel has become increasingly common, the need for convenient and efficient payment methods abroad has grown exponentially. With the advent of National Payments Corporation India’s (NPCI) Unified Payments Interface (UPI) in several countries, including France, UAE, Singapore and more, travelers now have the option to utilize this versatile payment system during their international trips. This expansion is a big step forward for digital payments. It lets people easily make transactions across countries without needing to exchange currency or use traditional banks.

Understanding Importance of UPI for International Travel

Introducing UPI in many countries changes how people handle money while traveling. Before, international transactions were tricky with high fees, limited payment choices and complicated bank processes. However, with UPI’s entry into the global arena, travelers can now enjoy the convenience of making quick and secure payments using their smartphones, regardless of their location. This makes paying easier and removes the hassle of carrying lots of cash or using currency exchange services, making travel smoother.

Step-by-Step Guide to Activating UPI for International Payments

For travelers eager to take advantage of UPI’s benefits during their international journeys, the activation process is relatively simple and can be completed using popular payment apps such as Google Pay, PhonePe and Paytm. Each app is easy to use equipped with simple menus and clear directions. So, you can quickly activate UPI International and start using it without any trouble. Let us explore the detailed steps for activating UPI on each platform:

Google Pay

To start a transaction using Google Pay, first open the app on your smartphone and select the “Scan QR code” option. Scan the QR code thereafter provided by the merchant and enter the amount you need to pay in the foreign currency. Choose the bank account now from which you want to make the payment. When prompted, activate “UPI International” to enable international transactions seamlessly.

PhonePe

To activate UPI International on PhonePe, start by opening the app and accessing your profile settings. Within the “Payment Settings” section, you will find the “UPI International” option. Tap on it and then choose the bank account you want to use for international payments. Follow the on-screen instructions, which will prompt you to enter your UPI PIN to complete the activation process.

Paytm

To enable UPI International on Paytm, begin by launching the app on your smartphone and navigating to your profile settings. From there, select “UPI & Payment Settings” from the menu options. Scroll down until you locate the “UPI International” option, then tap on it. Next, choose the bank account you prefer for international transactions and click on “Activate.” Follow the prompts to enter necessary details, including the duration and your PIN, to confirm and activate UPI International.

Banks Supporting UPI International Payments

It is essential to note that not all banks support UPI International transactions. However, several leading banks in India have partnered with UPI to facilitate international payments for their customers. Some of the prominent banks include Bank of Baroda, Punjab National Bank, Canara Bank, Bank of India and more. While the list of participating banks continues to grow, users can verify the availability of UPI International services for their preferred bank by accessing the payment settings within their chosen payment app.

Potential Considerations and Benefits of UPI International

While UPI International offers a convenient and secure payment solution for travelers, there are some factors to consider before using the service. Firstly, users should be aware that when conducting transactions abroad using UPI, the money is deducted in Indian Rupees, which may incur currency conversion charges. Users should also understand their bank’s rules for international transactions, including any fees or restrictions that may apply.

Despite these things to think about, using UPI International for travel abroad brings many advantages. It is easy to use, accessible and makes transactions smoother, removing the need for carrying cash. UPI International gives travelers the power to handle their money well and safely while discovering new places. By activating UPI International through their preferred payment app, users can embark on their international journeys with confidence, knowing that they have a reliable and convenient payment method at their fingertips.

Verdict

In today’s globalized world, UPI International brings a big change to digital payments. It lets travelers easily pay for things in different countries, like France, UAE and Singapore, using their smartphones. This makes paying simpler and faster, without needing to worry about changing money or using traditional banks. With UPI International, travelers can manage their money better while exploring new places, making their trips smoother and more enjoyable.

For travelers wanting easy and safe ways to pay abroad, UPI International is a game-changer. It gives users a reliable way to pay that is simple to use and does not require carrying lots of cash. While users should be mindful of potential currency conversion charges and their bank’s policies regarding international transactions, the benefits of using UPI International are undeniable. UPI International makes traveling easier by being easy to use and accessible. It simplifies transactions and makes travel smoother. By activating it in their favorite payment app, users can travel internationally with confidence, knowing they have a reliable way to pay.