AU Small Finance Bank enables UPI access to NRIs across 12 countries

Non-Resident Indian (NRI) customers of AU Small Finance Bank (AU SFB) can utilise Unified Payments Interface (UPI) services with their international mobile numbers.

While other banks, such as Axis Bank, Canara Bank, ICICI Bank, HDFC Bank, etc., have enabled UPI services for Non-Resident External (NRE) and Non-Resident Ordinary (NRO) account holders, AU Small Finance Bank (AU SFB) has also now joined the list.

“The bank has launched UPI services for its NRE and NRO account holders with international mobile numbers. This rollout follows the National Payments Corporation of India’s directive, which allows UPI transactions through international mobile numbers,” said the bank in a statement today.

With this upgrade, NRIs across 12 countries, including Australia, Canada, France, Hong Kong, Malaysia, Oman, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, Singapore, the UAE, the UK, and the USA, can now connect NRE/NRO accounts to UPI without an Indian SIM card.

It will enable AU SFB’s customers to make seamless, secure, and real-time payments for a variety of transactions, including bill payments, money transfers, and merchant purchases across India, the bank claimed.

Uttam Tibrewal, ED and Deputy CEO of AU Small Finance Bank, stated, “With the help of UPI for NRE and NRO account holders, who have international mobile numbers, we are removing traditional limitations and empowering NRIs to stay financially connected to India with ease, security, and convenience."

"Now, NRIs can easily scan QR codes and make cashless payments while visiting India. This process will broaden digital banking access for the Indian diaspora. It also supports the Government's Digital India mission, which encourages our shared commitment to financial inclusion and digital innovation,” added Tibrewal.

This way, NRIs who are eligible can register for UPI using their international numbers.  They can  enjoy seamless access to a full range of digital payment services without incurring extra charges or needing an Indian mobile connection, per the press release.

The release also states that this development improves the digital banking experience for customers living abroad while ensuring full compliance with Indian financial regulations.