What’s Changing: UPI’s New Rule on International QR Code Transactions

Now Mandatory: Enable UPI International for QR Code Payments Overseas In 2025

India's Unified Payments Interface (UPI) has revolutionized digital payments, offering fast, secure, and real-time transactions for millions. As the platform expands globally, a major change in the rules for international QR code transactions is now making headlines. This new move, announced by the National Payments Corporation of India (NPCI), aims to enhance user control and security, especially for those using UPI while traveling abroad. Let's break down what's changing, why it matters, and how it affects users.

UPI Goes Global: A Quick Recap

UPI isn't just limited to domestic use anymore. Over the past year, India has entered UPI partnerships with countries like Singapore, UAE, Nepal, France, and Sri Lanka, enabling users to make payments using international QR codes at participating merchants.

This means Indian tourists and business travelers can now scan QR codes abroad and pay directly from their UPI-linked bank accounts, just like they would at home.

What's the New Rule?

As of April 1, 2025, UPI users will need to enable international payments manually before they can scan and pay via QR codes in foreign countries.

Key Highlights of the New Rule:

• International UPI QR code payments are now opt-in.
• Users must activate international UPI access via their UPI app (e.g., Google Pay, PhonePe, Paytm, BHIM).
• This feature can typically be turned on through app settings under "UPI International."
• The change is designed to prevent accidental or fraudulent international payments.

Why This Change Matters

While enabling international QR code support is a step toward convenience, it also introduces security risks. With the opt-in feature:

• Users have better control over their international transactions.
• Accidental scans of foreign QR codes are avoided, which can sometimes lead to unintended charges.
• It adds a layer of authorization, ensuring payments abroad are intentional and secure.

How to Enable International UPI QR Payments

Enabling the feature is simple and varies slightly by app. Here's a general process:

• Open your UPI-enabled app (Google Pay, PhonePe, BHIM, etc.).
• Go to Settings > UPI > International UPI Payments.
• Tap Enable and agree to the terms.
• You might need to verify with your bank via OTP or passcode.
• Once enabled, you're ready to use UPI at international merchant QR codes.

You can disable the feature at any time through the same steps.

Who Benefits the Most?

• Frequent Travelers: Indian tourists visiting countries with UPI tie-ups can now pay with ease, but only after enabling the feature.
• International Students: May find it convenient to pay fees or at merchant outlets abroad.
• Cross-border Shoppers: Those shopping on international websites or at global retail outlets accepting UPI-based QR codes.

India's Growing UPI Footprint Abroad

This move is part of a larger push to globalize UPI. With international collaborations rising, UPI is being recognized as one of the most inclusive and scalable payment systems globally.

The opt-in policy further shows India's focus on smart regulation, data privacy, and security, even as the country leads fintech innovation on a global stage.

Final Thoughts

The new rule around international QR code usage through UPI is a small but significant step in improving user safety and payment transparency. While it adds an extra step for users, the benefits far outweigh the inconvenience. 

As UPI continues to go global, smart features like this one will ensure that users enjoy both seamless convenience and top-tier security—whether at home or abroad.