India, Nepal launch cross-border remittance mechanism; links UPI, NPI
2 min readOn June 6, India and Nepal introduced a peer‑to‑peer cross‑border remittance service to simplify money transfers for travelers and businesses, the finance ministry announced on Thursday.
The newly launched platform directly connects India’s Unified Payments Interface (UPI) with Nepal’s National Payments Interface (NPI), allowing residents of both countries to send real‑time funds through mobile banking apps and digital wallets.
“Linking UPI with NPI marks a significant step toward financial inclusion, strengthening economic and digital cooperation between India and Nepal. It supports regional objectives for accessible, secure, and affordable cross‑border payments while deepening long‑standing social and economic ties,” the ministry stated.
The technical implementation was carried out jointly by NPCI International Payments Limited (NIPL), the overseas division of India’s National Payments Corporation of India, and the Nepal Clearing House Limited (NCHL).
“This effort advances financial inclusion, promotes digital and economic integration, and offers greater convenience for travelers and enterprises in both nations,” the ministry added.
Key benefits of the UPI‑NPI remittance link include smoother travel experiences by removing the need for cash exchange, reducing the hassle of carrying large sums, and avoiding unfamiliar foreign‑exchange charges.
It also provides an economic lift for local merchants, as Nepalese businesses can tap into a sizable Indian tourist base, boosting transaction volumes.
UPI is now usable in nine nations—Singapore, the United Arab Emirates, France, Mauritius, Nepal, Bhutan, Qatar, Sri Lanka, and Cambodia—allowing Indian travelers to pay abroad using familiar platforms.
Published on June 11, 2026
