Can I use BBPS to make international bill payments?

BBPS is primarily designed for domestic bill payments within India. However, since 2022, it also allows Non-Resident Indians (NRIs) to make inbound cross-border payments to Indian billers through the platform. Despite this, BBPS does not support payments to international billers outside India.

Billers Supported by BBPS

BBPS covers periodic payment needs like:

• Electricity bills
• Telecom bills
• DTH recharges
• Insurance premiums
• Fastag recharges

The billers and merchants registered with BBPS largely provide services limited to India. While BBPS now supports inbound cross-border payments from NRIs to Indian billers, it does not support payments to international billers or overseas money transfers.

Alternatives for International Payments

Instead of BBPS, you can use the following methods to pay bills or transfer funds internationally:

• Wire transfers through your bank
• International money transfer services like PayPal, Wise, Remitly, etc.
• Debit/Credit card payments directly with international merchants

These facilities allow cross-border transactions by integrating with suitable foreign exchange, global payment networks and banking channels abroad. They are safer and more seamless options for any international payment needs.

BBPS should be used for routine household and institutional bills within India, including payments made by NRIs from abroad to Indian billers. For payments to international billers or overseas merchants, alternative remittance methods are recommended.