The rollout follows recent UPI launches at iconic locations in France, including Galeries Lafayette in Nice and even the Eiffel Tower in Paris, a sign that Indian payment systems are becoming accepted at major global tourist destinations.
For travellers, this means that paying abroad could soon feel as easy as scanning a QR code at your local café in India.
Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal announced the development during his visit to Athens, where a live demonstration showcased the partnership between Eurobank and NPCI International Payments Limited (NIPL).
Why this matters for your walletUPI’s expansion is more than a tech story, it’s personal finance news with real-world impact:
- Lower transaction costs: International card payments and forex conversions often come with hidden fees. UPI aims to reduce costs to a fraction of traditional transfer charges.
- No need to carry large amounts of cash: Travellers can make payments directly through familiar Indian apps.
- Faster and seamless payments: No waiting for OTPs from international networks or struggling with card acceptance abroad.
- Better budgeting while travelling: Since payments happen instantly from linked bank accounts, travellers can track spending more easily.
Countries where UPI worksUPI is now accepted in these countries:
- Greece
- Singapore
- United Arab Emirates
- France
- Mauritius
- Nepal
- Bhutan
- Qatar
- Sri Lanka
- Cambodia
For frequent travellers, students abroad, and even business visitors, this growing network could gradually reduce dependence on international cards and expensive currency exchange services.
First Published: Jun 30, 2026 1:42 PM IST

