ICICI Bank's iMobile Pay Extends UPI to NRIs from 10 Nations

ICICI Bank has introduced a new feature catering to Non-Resident Indian (NRI) customers, enabling them to utilize their international mobile numbers for instant UPI payments within India.

This functionality, accessible through the bank's mobile application, iMobile Pay, signifies a significant departure from the previous prerequisite for NRIs to register an Indian mobile number for similar transactions.

Here's a detailed breakdown of this new facility and its operational aspects:

Introduction of International Mobile Number Usage:

ICICI Bank has initiated a service where NRIs can make UPI payments within India using their international mobile numbers.

Availability through iMobile Pay: This feature is integrated into the iMobile Pay application, providing NRI customers with a seamless platform for conducting UPI transactions.

Statement from Sidharatha Mishra: Sidharatha Mishra, the Head of Digital Channels and Partnerships at ICICI Bank, expressed delight in partnering with NPCI to introduce UPI functionality on international mobile numbers via iMobile Pay.

This move eliminates the necessity for NRI customers to switch to an Indian mobile number for UPI payments.

Positive Customer Response: The bank has reported a positive response from NRI customers who have begun utilizing this facility.

Leveraging NPCI's Infrastructure: ICICI Bank leverages the global framework established by the National Payments Corporation of India (NPCI) to extend UPI services across 10 countries.

These countries include the USA, UK, UAE, Canada, Singapore, Australia, Hong Kong, Oman, Qatar, and Saudi Arabia.

Transaction Capabilities: NRI customers can effortlessly conduct transactions by scanning any Indian QR code, sending funds to a UPI ID, or any Indian mobile number or bank account.

Step-by-Step Guide: ICICI Bank provides a step-by-step guide on how NRIs can initiate UPI payments using the iMobile Pay app:

Log in to the iMobile Pay app.

• Navigate to ‘UPI Payments’.

• Verify your mobile number.

• Go to Manage → My Profile.

• Create a new UPI ID from the suggested options.

• Select your account number and submit.

Utility Bill Payments and More: This facility enables NRIs to manage payments for their utility bills, merchant services, and e-commerce transactions directly using their international mobile number linked to their NRE/NRO accounts at ICICI Bank in India.

In essence, ICICI Bank's introduction of UPI payments through international mobile numbers via iMobile Pay streamlines the transaction process for NRIs, making it more convenient and accessible. This move represents a significant step towards enhancing digital payment ecosystems globally.