The focus keyword UPI payments without Indian SIM card reflects a major change in India’s digital payments ecosystem. Indian payment-app Paytm now allows users — specifically non-resident Indians (NRIs) and foreign mobile number holders — to make UPI transactions without the constraint of having an Indian SIM card or mobile number. This opens new flexibility for users abroad and for those who previously faced entry barriers.
What’s changed: How Paytm & UPI handle foreign mobile numbers
Previously, to create a UPI handle and link a bank account via an app like Paytm, the registered mobile number typically needed to be an Indian number (+91) tied to the bank account and SIM card.
Now, regulatory updates from National Payments Corporation of India (NPCI) and the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) allow eligible users to link international mobile numbers to NRE/NRO Indian bank accounts and thereby activate UPI. On Paytm’s own blog, it is stated: “The system ensures global access without needing an Indian SIM card.”
Specifically, through the feature named UPI One World, Paytm outlines that foreign visitors and NRIs can use their international mobile number and do not need an Indian SIM card or Indian bank account
Who is eligible for this feature?
This includes:
- NRIs holding an Indian bank account (NRE or NRO) where the bank supports linking an international mobile number.
- The mobile number can be from select countries: for example countries like USA, UK, UAE, Australia, Singapore, etc.
- Users of Paytm (and other UPI apps) who have completed KYC and verification as per bank/app requirements.
How does it work on Paytm?
With Paytm:
- Download and install the Paytm app.
- Link your Indian bank account (NRE/NRO) or wallet if using wallet mode.
- Use your international mobile number (if eligible) and complete KYC/verification process.
- Activate UPI enabling features such as UPI One World (if you are a foreign visitor/NRIs)
– You do not need an Indian SIM card for the mobile number you use for UPI registration. - Once set up, you can scan and pay via QR codes, make merchant payments etc linked to your UPI handle on Paytm.
Key benefits & implications
Benefits
- NRIs and foreign-mobile-number holders no longer need to maintain an Indian SIM just to use UPI via Paytm.
- More convenience: bills, subscriptions, rent payments in India can be made even if the user was abroad or using foreign number.
- Easier digital inclusion for overseas Indians and foreign visitors.
Implications
- For the payment ecosystem: this extends the reach of UPI beyond strictly “mobile number = India SIM” model, opening international users.
- For fraud/security: apps and banks will need to ensure KYC/verification remains robust given international mobiles.
- For Indian banks and Paytm: they must update systems, support linking of foreign numbers and maintain regulatory compliance.
Limitations & things to watch
- Even though the mobile number can be foreign, you still need an eligible Indian bank account (NRE/NRO) in many cases.
- Not all banks and payment apps may have rolled out this support yet; coverage may vary by bank and country of mobile number.
- The feature may be limited to merchant payments rather than person-to-person transfers in some cases (for example UPI One World wallet says “only merchant payments”). Paytm
- The accepted country list for foreign mobile numbers is currently selective; those outside may still need Indian mobile numbers.
Why this change matters now
India’s digital payment system via UPI has ballooned with domestic users, but previously the requirement of an Indian SIM and mobile number created friction for a global user audience. With India increasingly attracting global usage (NRIs, foreign tourists), this move signals UPI’s evolution into a more globally accessible payment network. The upgrade is timely as consumption, travel, cross-border payments and overseas Indian finances become more intertwined.
Conclusion
The feature enabling UPI payments without Indian SIM card on Paytm is a significant step for digital payments in India. It provides added flexibility to NRIs and foreign-mobile-number users, expands the reach of UPI, and underscores how Paytm is adapting to changing user demographics and global requirements. While there are certain eligibility conditions and limitations, for many users this is a welcome enhancement.
By facilitating UPI usage using international mobile numbers and without an Indian SIM, Paytm is helping bridge the gap between India’s domestic digital-payments infrastructure and a global user base.
