Besides India, several countries worldwide have begun accepting the Unified Payments Interface (UPI), making transactions much easier for tourists and frequent travellers. One of these countries is France, and while the European nation began accepting the Indian payment system in 2024, it is now planning to expand the service to several more cities and major international airports across the country. Here’s all you need to know about this.
Where Is UPI Available In France?
On Sunday, Prime Minister Narendra Modi and French President Emmanuel Macron held bilateral talks in the coastal city of Nice and signed 19 agreements. According to The Economic Times, the two leaders spoke about AI, startups, infrastructure, health, and even UPI expansion across France.
According to Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri, UPI is now active at multiple locations across France, including major international airports and the Eiffel Tower. He also noted that the payment system has gained significant traction in the country and is set to expand further in the coming weeks.
Back in February 2024, the Indian payment system was officially launched at the Eiffel Tower in Paris. Developed by the National Payments Corporation of India (NPCI), UPI was introduced in France in partnership with Lyra, a French proximity and e-commerce payments company.
Also Read: Cambodia Welcomes UPI! Indians Can Make UPI Payments At Over 4.5 Million Merchants
Expansion In Cards
As per reports from October 2025, France witnessed a 40% increase in Indian tourist arrivals following UPI’s launch in the country. The payment system is now accepted at the Eiffel Tower, the flagship Galeries Lafayette department store, several tourist hotspots, and multiple international airports across the country.
Now, according to the Foreign Secretary, UPI is set to expand to several other French cities in the coming weeks. The payment method will be expanded to Charles de Gaulle Airport in Paris and the Nice Airport as well.
Also Read: South Korea Now Accepts UPI! Scan And Pay Easily During Your International Trip
Besides France, the United Arab Emirates (UAE), Singapore, Bhutan, Nepal, Sri Lanka, Mauritius, and Qatar accept UPI payments. Recently, South Korea and Cambodia also announced they will be accepting UPI payments too.
Cover Image Courtesy: Canva Pro/Thitiphan Pakseesuwan & website/npci
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Can Indians use UPI in France?
Yes, Indian travellers can use UPI at participating merchants across France where the payment system has been enabled.
Where is UPI accepted in France?
UPI is accepted at several locations in France, including the Eiffel Tower, Galeries Lafayette, tourist hotspots, and multiple international airports.
Is there a special app needed to use UPI in France?
No. Travellers can use their existing UPI-enabled apps linked to Indian bank accounts, provided the merchant accepts UPI payments.