UPI Goes Global: Indian Tourists Can Soon Make Payments In Japan via UPI

Japan has become a top destination for Indian tourists since 2024, attracting travelers with its stunning landscapes and iconic landmarks like Mount Fuji and Shibuya Crossing. For Indian visitors, the single-entry visa is quite affordable at around INR 800, making it easier to explore this beautiful country. And if you're planning a trip to Japan, there's exciting news: Indian tourists may soon be able to use their Unified Payments Interface (UPI) apps for payments at selected merchants. This initiative aims to streamline financial transactions for Indian travelers.

The National Payments Corporation of India's international division, NPCI International Payments Limited (NIPL), has partnered with NTT DATA Japan, part of the NTT DATA Group, to facilitate this. Through this collaboration, merchants working with NTT DATA are anticipated to accept UPI payments in the near future.

After the launch of the new payment system, Indian travelers will find it easier to shop in Japan by simply scanning QR codes with their UPI apps. This initiative aims to reduce the reliance on cash or foreign currency cards while traveling.

A report from CNBC TV18 highlights comments from Masanori Kurihara, the Payments Head at NTT DATA Japan, who stated that introducing UPI payments will enhance the shopping experience for Indian tourists and provide Japanese businesses with an opportunity to attract new customers. The report indicates that from January to August 2025, more than 208,000 Indian visitors explored Japan, emphasizing the necessity for familiar and secure payment options.

Qatar To Also Accept UPI Payment

Besides Japan, Qatar has also joined the list of countries supporting UPI payments. In partnership with Qatar National Bank (QNB), NPCI International Payments Ltd (NIPL) has introduced a system that enables UPI payments via QR codes throughout the country. As part of this rollout, NETSTARS’ payment solution has been incorporated into QNB’s point-of-sale systems. Qatar Duty Free is the first merchant to adopt this service, allowing UPI payments at its locations and other popular tourist sites. NPCI states that this initiative will provide a secure and efficient payment option for Indian visitors, who are the second-largest group of international tourists in Qatar. This new service not only enhances convenience for Indian travelers but also supports Qatar’s tourism sector.