NRIs Face OTP Delays Overseas, Experts Advise Keeping Indian SIMs Active For Banking

Millions of Non-Resident Indians (NRIs) rely on their Indian mobile numbers for OTP-based authentication across net banking, UPI, DigiLocker, EPFO, and tax portals. While there is no legal restriction on using Indian numbers abroad, the challenge lies in ensuring uninterrupted access and avoiding frozen finances when OTPs fail.

Why Indian Numbers Matter

• Banking and UPI: Most Indian financial services still depend on OTPs linked to domestic numbers.
• Compliance: Updating KYC, filing taxes, and accessing government portals require OTP verification.
• Security: OTPs remain the backbone of two-factor authentication in India’s financial ecosystem

Common Challenges Abroad

• OTP Delays: International SMS routing often causes delays or failures.
• SIM Deactivation: Prepaid SIMs not recharged regularly risk deactivation.
• High Roaming Charges: International roaming tariffs are significantly higher than domestic rates.
• Blocked Short Codes: Some countries block SMS short codes, disrupting OTP delivery. 

Expert Recommendations

• Keep Indian SIM Active: Recharge periodically to avoid deactivation.
• Register Overseas Number: Many banks now allow international numbers for OTPs.
• Enable Alternate Verification: Use app-based authentication, email OTPs, or biometric MPINs for low-risk transactions.
• Dual Access: Maintain both Indian and overseas numbers to reduce dependency on one channel. 

Practical Tips For NRIs

•⁠  ⁠Recharge Indian SIM every 90 days to prevent deactivation

•⁠  ⁠Activate international roaming before travel for uninterrupted OTPs

•⁠  ⁠Register overseas number with banks where supported

•⁠  ⁠Use app-based authentication like net banking apps or UPI apps with device binding

•⁠  ⁠Keep email verification enabled as backup for OTP failures

•⁠  ⁠Inform banks of address and number changes to avoid compliance gaps

Sources: The Financial Express, The Economic Times, MSN