No Indian bank account? No problem: India launches ‘UPI One World’ for visitors and NRIs at India AI Impact Summit; know details here

India has taken a major step toward transforming how global travellers spend money in the country. At the India AI Impact Summit 2026, the National Payments Corporation of India (NPCI) launched an enhanced version of UPI One World—a digital wallet service that enables foreign visitors and non-resident Indians (NRIs) to make real-time payments across India without a local bank account or mobile number. This move positions India’s digital payments system as more inclusive, flexible and globally accessible.

Opening doors to digital payments for all

Traditionally, international visitors to India have had limited options for local payments, relying on cash, credit cards or foreign wallets that may not work everywhere. With UPI One World, travellers can scan UPI QR codes at merchants nationwide using a wallet app loaded with funds from their international debit or credit cards. The system eliminates the need for a local SIM or Indian bank account, significantly reducing friction in everyday spending from food and transport to shopping and services.

NRIs, who often visit India for extended stays, family gatherings or business trips, are also expected to benefit from UPI One World. Unlike the standard UPI ecosystem that requires an Indian bank account and mobile number, this service allows NRIs to transact seamlessly using their international credentials.

For NRIs who have struggled with linking foreign numbers or navigating Indian banking requirements every time they return, the UPI One World wallet offers a convenient alternative. It enables them to experience India’s digital payments ecosystem without procedural hurdles, while still enjoying the speed and ubiquity of UPI payments.

At designated service points, such as New Delhi International Airport and select venues including the AI summit hub, visitors can:

-Download an authorised PPI-UPI app (e.g., CheqUPI).

-Complete a minimal KYC using passport, visa and basic details.

-Set a UPI PIN to create a unique UPI ID.

-Load funds using international debit/credit cards.

-Pay merchants instantly by scanning UPI QR codes.

Each wallet supports a load limit of up to Rs 25,000 per transaction and ₹50,000 per month. Unused balances can be refunded to the original payment card, removing concerns over leftover cash or currency conversion.

India’s digital payments on the world stage

NPCI officials say that UPI One World is a live showcase of India’s digital payments leadership. The domestic UPI network recently recorded record volumes, processing billions of transactions monthly. By extending the same ease to global users and NRIs, India is demonstrating a scalable financial technology model that could evolve into international cross-border payment standards.

“UPI One World gives both global visitors and returning NRIs a chance to experience India’s real-time payments ecosystem firsthand,” said NPCI executives, highlighting the pilot as a bridge between India’s digital infrastructure and global users.

More traveller-friendly India

For tourists and NRIs alike, UPI One World simplifies spending in India—removing currency exchange hassles, reducing dependency on cash and credit cards, and showcasing Indian financial innovation on the global stage.