10 ms·

Show HN: Cheq UPI – India's first UPI payments app for foreigners

163 points by sudshekhar 3y ago

Hello HN, My name is Sudhanshu and I'm the Co-founder/CEO of Cheq UPI (https://www.chequpi.com https://www.chequpi.com). We are the first UPI wallet for foreigners and non-resident Indians travelling to India. Using Cheq, you can purchase almost any goods/services across India . Just scan the merchant QR code / choose the pay by UPI id option to make the purchase. You don’t need an Indian bank account to operate Cheq UPI. Our prepaid wallet can be topped up with any international debit/credit card. 10mn+ foreigners visiting India each year, invariably face one of the below problems 1) Indian merchant not accepting international credit/debit cards 2) Unavailability of ATMs/money changers at remote locations 3) Indian merchants not tendering exact loose change The Cheq UPI app was launched to help all these individuals travel cashfree across the country. If know someone planning to visit India this year, please ask them to try us out! A lot of time, hard work and luck has gone into building Cheq and we hope it’ll make travelling to India more convenient for citizens across the globe. Some quick pointers to know about the Cheq UPI app: - The Cheq UPI app works ONLY in India and we must verify your passport in-person before activating the UPI wallet. - Once activated, you’ll be able to scan & pay with UPI anywhere across India. - Funds can be added to the Cheq wallet using any international debit/credit card, you don’t need an Indian bank account / aadhaar card. - Apart from the 10$ account opening fees, there are no other costs for using the product. Funds added can be spent anywhere across India. I’ll be available to answer any questions you may have throughout the day about Cheq, UPI or Indian fintech in general. Look forward to seeing you all try Cheq UPI PS: We're continuously improving our services, so critical and constructive feedback is most welcome.

abra_cad 3y ago
[flagged]
shivekkhurana 3y ago
HN is a global forum, and most people probably don't know about UPI. But this is amazing. Do you have a subscription service or do you charge a markup on forex deposits ? Also how did you build a legal structure to allow this ? Congrats on the launch. Wish you success :)
- sudshekhar 3y ago
  We're still playing with our pricing. 10$ joining fees and a 3.5% markup on adding funds is the current business plan. We'll observe customer usage over the next 3-6 months and figure out if fixed fee subscriptions can be cheaper. > Also how did you build a legal structure to allow this ? We've partnered with Transcorp International Limited to operate the Cheq app in India. They are an RBI approved AD2 and PPI license holder. Customer funds are parked in an escrow account with them until utilized via the UPI network. This is also why Cheq physical verification can happen only at Transcorp branches currently. You can think of Cheq as a technology platform using Transcorp as our banking partner. Or Transcorp, as a financial services firm, using Cheq as its technology partner.
  - skwashd 3y ago
    The summary says: > Apart from the 10$ account opening fees, there are no other costs for using the product. Funds added can be spent anywhere across India. As mentioned above, there is a 3.5% fee for adding funds. I looked into Cheq before my recent trip to India. After doing the math I realised it was cheaper to take out some cash at the airport for smaller transactions and tips. I had no issue using my credit card at larger stores.
    - sudshekhar 3y ago
      Currently, we're not charging the 3.5% fees to customers. Its in the "plan" and we'll introduce it once the volumes go up enough to require compensations. Maybe in 2-3 months or longer. Hence, the summary says 10$ only.
    - OJFord 3y ago
      Part of the motivation is that even cash isn't accepted by everyone. Someone I was with last time I went had to get a stranger to make the UPI payment to vendor in exchange for cash. Nice of them, but what a faff, and my own Hindi wouldn't have been up to it. (Maybe you'd find someone willing and with enough English to arrange it, but that's only adding complexity.) I'd definitely prefer this next time, if I could count on being able to set it up. (Or knew I'd go again so set it up while there for next time.)
wsgolfer 3y ago
This looks like it could be very helpful. One question, how is it different than what was announced by the Reserve Bank of India earlier this year? [1] [1] https://m.timesofindia.com/business/india-business/hassle-free-payments-available-now-how-foreign-travellers-visiting-india-can-use-upi/articleshow/98138392.cms https://m.timesofindia.com/business/india-business/hassle-fr...
- satya71 3y ago
  RBI (India's central bank) doesn't implement the actual user facing stuff. If you read the article, it's two banks and two non-banks. One of those is Transcorp. Cheq UPI seems to be using Transcorp's backend.
- sudshekhar 3y ago
  We're also a part of the same initiative. Behind the scenes story below : Until last year, there was no way for Indian fintechs to provide UPI services to international citizens. The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) decided in January 2023 to issue UPI enabled wallets to international citizens visiting India during G20. We got a call late at night asking if our team can quickly deliver this solution. Our team stepped up and the first version was delivered within 30 days. This app was used to showcase UPI to various the G20 delegates who visited Bangalore in February. We've spent another 5 months tweaking things and finally, we feel ready to launch the app in front of you :)
  - iprathik 3y ago
    who called?
    - SSLy 3y ago
      modi's party
    - sudshekhar 3y ago
      In our case, it was someone from the RBI
  - 3y ago
rlpb 3y ago
This looks interesting, but there are some questions I still have after reading your website. Perhaps you could clarify, please? Your website says: > Verify yourself at any one of our partner branches across India How do I find out if there's a branch nearby without downloading your app and committing to an unknown amount of effort? I couldn't find a list of your branches anywhere, but it looks like it would be a showstopper if there isn't one available. It's as if you're being evasive about how widespread your coverage is. Why should I invest my time if it seems likely that you won't have a branch where I need it, and therefore I won't be able to use your services at all? For example: do you have a presence in the arrivals areas at major airports? If so, which ones? In fact, it seems that your call to action is to download your app. But why would I bother to do that if I know I won't get anywhere without visiting a branch to get approval first? Assuming you have no choice about in-person documentation checks, it would make more sense for you to send prospective customers to their nearest branch, have their documents checked and approved there, and to provide wifi at every branch so that they can get the app up and running quickly - for example with a QR code or something generated by your staff when documentation is approved and an account created. Being asked to set up the app first, when we know we will be blocked on a visit to a branch, seems backwards. Your FAQ says: > Your passport and Indian VISA are required to open a tourist wallet What about OCI holders? Are your branch staff going to be familiar with this case, or will it be a waste of time to show up with one? > You can add funds to your tourist wallet via an instant payment gateway. This is a non-answer. Is this through the app? Through the website? Through something else not specified? Are there any criteria that must be met? Or do you support adding funds immediately via credit card without any further review steps apart from the usual payment flow expected when buying anything else online? Because that's what I'd like, and this answer makes me doubt that this is what you mean.
- sudshekhar 3y ago
  Hey, answering the questions below 1) https://transcorpint.com/find-us https://transcorpint.com/find-us => You can verify yourself at any of these centers across India. We'll improve the site to directly point customers to appropriate verification centers (thanks for pointing this out) 2) OCI holders are accepted as well. Only your passport and OCI card are required 3) Add funds facility is instantenous. And is available in the app once you've finished the verification. You'll be able to add funds via any card, and instantly receive funds in your Cheq wallet for spending.
mortureb 3y ago
How interesting. This is a niche I keep seeing mentioned on HN but never made the connection to providing a solution. Nice work!
knotty66 3y ago
I would use this. Is there anywhere in Goa I can verify my passport? Or maybe in Mumbai / Dabolim airport?
- sudshekhar 3y ago
  We'll arrange for an agent in Mumbai/Goa. Simply purchase the product, finish your setup and speak with your assigned account representative. They'll get you activated
toomuchtodo 3y ago
Can you continue to use this from outside India once identity proofed within India?
- sudshekhar 3y ago
  Currently, you can only make payments using the app while you're in India. Your wallet will remain active and you can use the funds next time you visit again. But we have geofencing restrictions which prevent customers from initiating payments while outside the country. Due to certain regulatory restrictions.
  - toomuchtodo 3y ago
    Understandable. Thank you for the reply, great product, best of luck!
  - orochimaaru 3y ago
    Won’t vpns circumvent geofencing? I use one often.
    - linolo 3y ago
      Yup they will. Because of Reserve Bank of India guidelines, Cheq needs to at least show that they are making an effort to prevent domestic transactions being made outside India
      - OJFord 3y ago
        What's the reasoning here? AML somehow? Or just that large amounts transferred in should be subject to import tax (that just doesn't seem like it would be RBI concern)? Because, on a basic high-level look, why would a country not want inflows of foreign cash, typically you do want to sell goods/services for foreign money, good for GDP.
        sudshekhar 3y ago
martinald 3y ago
Very interesting given how much success UPI is having. Some feedback: Bad typo on homepage (should be sponsor not sponser - also why is this so prominent on your landing page, seems weird). Who is transcorp and how are you related to them? Western people are very unlikely to have heard of them (I had to Google), and are you part of them, powered by them, etc? It's confusing having two brands like that at the top of your page. The two "British" video testimonials don't have British accents. Are you sure they are actually British? Finally in terms of practical steps I think not having branches at airports to do the KYC checks is a major issue. Btw, I think partnerships would be a good way to market yourself. There are a lot of prepaid travel cards in the west and I can imagine they'd be happy to look at promoting you.
- sudshekhar 3y ago
  > Bad typo on homepage (should be sponsor not sponser - also why is this so prominent on your landing page, seems weird). Will get this fixed. Also improve the positioning of it. The idea behind getting sponsors was to keep the customer charges as low as possible. We're attracing a very premium customer base and I am confident merchants would like to place themselves before our audience. > Who is transcorp and how are you related to them? Western people are very unlikely to have heard of them (I had to Google), and are you part of them, powered by them, etc? It's confusing having two brands like that at the top of your page. Transcorp is our banking/licensing partner. We're currently using their services in India to manage customer funds and power our UPI connection. I understand your feedback though. We'll work on presenting this better. > The two "British" video testimonials don't have British accents. Are you sure they are actually British? Hahah, Nice catch. I just rechecked. Andrew is British. Olivia is American. Leo is Russian. We'll update this. > Btw, I think partnerships would be a good way to market yourself. There are a lot of prepaid travel cards in the west and I can imagine they'd be happy to look at promoting you. That's a great idea. We'll definitely explore this route for growth.
kylehotchkiss 3y ago
You guys need to try, try, try to figure this out without the passport verification. I've spent a lot of visits to India and having to hand my passport to some local shopkeeper feels like an invitation for identity theft. People who grew up in the USA have been told their whole lives to protect their documents and this is a pretty big leap of faith for little benefit over grabbing cash from the ATM. Edit: to be more helpful, a system like this would be more exciting for me - Upload the passport in app, the passport is verified only by a salaried and background-checked (you know, like a police clearance certificate) staff that is a employee of your company (not a third party or contractor). Have a clearly written policy about record keeping, security of the storage, pursue legal charges against employees who don't adhere to privacy policy. Etc.
- kylehotchkiss 3y ago
  FWIW, you have a competitor who could very well figure out a UPI payments piece shortly (they don't seem to support the QR codes piece yet) (https://wise.com/in/blog/send-money-to-india-with-upi https://wise.com/in/blog/send-money-to-india-with-upi) and they have built in passport verification without the shopkeeper & scanner part. It'd be good to start without the rigidity of that step.
  - KomoD 3y ago
    Wise supports UPI? Great, way more trustworthy than this
    - kylehotchkiss 3y ago
      Apple appears to be trying to talk about implementing some form of UPI too! https://techcrunch.com/2023/06/22/apple-looks-to-resume-talks-for-apple-pay-launch-in-india/ https://techcrunch.com/2023/06/22/apple-looks-to-resume-talk...
    - sudshekhar 3y ago
      Wise UPI can only be used to send money to third parties. You cannot use them to make everyday purchases. And there's no guarantee by when the recipient will receive money.
spraveenitpro 3y ago
[dead]
optimistprime 3y ago
Love the idea, but honestly it's too much friction to start using your product. Please consider in-app passport verification and wallet creation. Also the website does not seem to be well thought out - 1. No mention of how to use UPI or Cheq. 2. Where to go to get verified? 3. I could not find an ios app. Is there one coming soon? 4. Too many typos as others too have noted. "UPI wallet let’s you pay " <-- lets 5. Lots of irrelevant content on the home page. 6. Confusing "get started" button that is actually an image.
- sudshekhar 3y ago
  We're live on both android and ios. You can use this link to view the apps directly. https://link-to.app/cheq https://link-to.app/cheq And thanks for all the suggestions. We'll improve the website asap.
- pmontra 3y ago
  > Please consider in-app passport verification and wallet creation. Definitely. And make it possible to do it from home before flying to India. Tourists have more time there than after landing into an airport and starting to move around the country, maybe even without spending a night in a hotel first.
abhinai 3y ago
I am your exact target and I could try this right away. Can you please give more details on what currency conversion fees can be expected?
- sudshekhar 3y ago
  For this month at least, we're running a zero forex sale. You'll be able to purchase INR using your international card at no extra cost apart from the 10$ basically. Standard add money rate will be 3.5% . Whenever we start applying the same. This is less than half the fees charged by airport money changers.
Brajeshwar 3y ago
Excellent, and I love the idea. We (a community of 400+ founders in a small Bangalore community) were even discussing you guys a few days back. I have given this feedback earlier, too, but the copy sounds Ind-lish at most places. Your customers are going to be primarily non-Indian. It would be best to have a native speaker, such as an American, to review and re-write. I’m an Indian and have worked primarily with overseas clients since the early 00s. I have learned a lot about what we speak/write sounds normal, but they sound either funny at best or rude at worst. Not in a derogatory way, and I’m guilty of being one myself, too. However, this is what I equate to, “Quite a tad of our Indian English is like driving a car with the handbrake half-engaged or sawing a hardwood with an unsharpened tool.” Best of luck. This tool needs to exit.
- sudshekhar 3y ago
  > I have given this feedback earlier, too, but the copy sounds Ind-lish at most places. Thank you very much for the suggestion! > It would be best to have a native speaker, such as an American, to review and re-write. Great idea. We'll definitely try to work with someone in this capacity. We're already incorporating multiple language support and language translations.
- reacharavindh 3y ago
  I see where you are coming from. But, as an NRI, I found the writing authentic. Just like American English, English English, Australian English, it is Indian English. Nothing to be unproud of and criticized about.. I’d perhaps be happy to see translation options as Indian English, American, UK etc on a modern humorous tone :-)
  - Brajeshwar 3y ago
    It is perfectly OK to move fast and do the `Juggad`[1] in the beginning, but, from my experience, once they succeed, they will eventually do that - improve the copies. I was suggesting to focus on that early on. It is akin to improving on the UX — get the product’s core working with crappy UX but then improve as the product succeeds. Please go through the WebArchive of any successful Indian Startups (even the ones focused on Indians); they all eventually moved to a more Internationally better sounding English. We Indians can understand them and are not culturally nostalgic or patriotic about “Indian English.” While we are at it, I guarantee that once they succeed, if not the founder of Cheq, the investors and/or external forces will force them to buy `Cheq.com.` I will be surprised if they are not thinking of getting that domain already. 1. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jugaad https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jugaad
fakedang 3y ago
For those not in the know, I believe it's possible for NRIs with an Indian Bank account (NRE/NRO) to use UPI. https://m.economictimes.com/wealth/save/upi-for-nris-with-international-mobile-numbers-who-can-use-how-it-will-benefit-explained/articleshow/99834299.cms https://m.economictimes.com/wealth/save/upi-for-nris-with-in... The list of countries are Canada, Singapore, UK, USA, UAE, Oman, Qatar, Saudi Arabia and Australia.
- orochimaaru 3y ago
  It is, but it’s a pain in the rear end to maintain that account. This is what happened. I had an NRE with icici. But kyc requirements kick in after some period during which the account is idle. This happened often, because I don’t use it when I’m in the US and my parents didn’t use it in India. Getting that unlocked was a bit of a process needing snail mail and identity documents. It wasn’t icici’s fault. They were super helpful. In short, I closed the account. Besides the depreciating rupee makes it not so attractive to keep dollars in India anymore.
  - fakedang 3y ago
    > the depreciating rupee makes it not so attractive to keep dollars in India anymore. This has been the case for the past decade though, still no reason to keep money in India except pocket change for local expenses. I simply gave my relationship manager an email with all the necessary docs. While very unsafe, it's convenient and a single point of failure. Also helps that I only have the equivalent of like 10k USD in the account.
redindian75 3y ago
I struggled a lot with this exact problem during my trip to India last year, so I am your perfect NRI customer. I don't have an Indian phone number, so GPay and PayTM were out of reach. So I had to use my parents' phone everywhere. This app is great for my next visit. However, in-person-branch-verification is a big non-starter for me. It needs to be more convenient than visiting a branch. If I have to visit a branch, I might as well open an NRE account; there's an ICICI on every street. I checked your list and I don't see any Tier 2 cities. There's nothing all over Tamil Nadu and Kerala except Chennai. So, in the absence of a 24/7 kiosk or manned counter in every major international airport (3-4 in each state), you need to have an option for pre-verification online/FaceTime/webcam or via document upload. Otherwise, the inconvenience of a branch visit negates any usefulness. Also, why restrict the app to work only in India? I should be able to load money and withdraw money wherever. Just disable the payment part.
- mortureb 3y ago
  Anything with in person anything is an immediate no go. Come on guys, find a way around this. There absolutely has to be a way to do this over the internet.
  - sudshekhar 3y ago
    We did try pushing for an online account opening process. However, it's not allowed under existing India regulations. We plan to scale with doorstep verification services in the meantime.
  - tyingq 3y ago
    Finding a way to get a presence in the major airports would probably make it reasonable. Partnership with someone already there, like a currency exchange booth? Then, at some point, maybe there's enough volume to gain leverage with the bureaucrats to go all online.
- sudshekhar 3y ago
  > Otherwise, the inconvenience of a branch visit negates any usefulness. Unfortunately, existing regulations in India mandate a one-time physical verification before we can unlock you for a full-fledged prepaid account without applying artificial limits. Our team is definitely looking into way to make this entire process online and as hassle-free as possible. And we're looking for ways to unblock activation directly at airports. Will keep you posted as things develop. > Also, why restrict the app to work only in India? I am unsure but somewhere in the RBI regulations it says prepaid wallets are only supposed to work while customers are in India. At least that's what we've been informed by the lawyers. Hence transactions are currently disallowed from outside. But if enough folks adopt Cheq, I am confident we can ask the government for relaxations. Technically, its super easy for us.
Aperocky 3y ago
> we must verify your passport in-person before activating the UPI wallet. How are you planning to make this scale? Presumably you want a significant portion of the 10 million traveler yearly to use this app.
- sudshekhar 3y ago
  We plan to tie up with sim card vendors operating in airports around India. That should hopefully make it more convenient for people to finish their activation. Longer term solution however, will be doorstep verification facilitated by the Transcorp team / in-house agents.
bandrami 3y ago
Nice! This is a definite pain point for visiting India so this is great.
asimpleusecase 3y ago
I am a likely user. You need to be in major airports at the very least.
satranj 3y ago
This is interesting. Having the in-person verification of passport at the international airports of India would be make it lot more easier for folks to use it.
papul1993 3y ago
Hi OP. Is there any way for me to invest in your startup? I am, by no means a VC. Just a normal salaried individual that wishes to invest a little bit in your startup.
- sudshekhar 3y ago
  Please drop me a note on sudhanshu[at]cheq[dot]money Happy to chat.
Yeul 3y ago
In the Netherlands we just let dumb foreigners use their creditcard instead of making things complicated for them. You'll be charged an arm and a leg for it though but if you stick to the approved tourist areas your Visacard will be accepted.
- sudshekhar 3y ago
  You can of course use your credit card / cash to make spends while travelling in India as well. But UPI will feel more convenient. And it works everywhere.
  - rusticpenn 3y ago
    None of my credit cards worked the last time I visited.
- kmlx 3y ago
  ignoring the tone of this comment, “charged an arm and a leg” = pennies. i guess pennies are now valuable in the netherlands? in any case, the Dutch supermarket chain albert heijn still doesn’t accept any cards except some non starter locally developed ones. i always found it interesting that the netherlands are so far behind places like the UK when it comes to payments. even countries in SE Europe have better payments infra than the Netherlands.
  - OJFord 3y ago
    Not sure where you're from, but it's true at least if I went to NL from the UK and used any credit card, there'd be probably both 1) an awful FX rate; 2) a flat charge. ATMs are typically worse, even if the machine operator itself doesn't add a fee. Some debit cards (or pre-paid 'charge cards', such as any specifically marketed for travel) like Monzo bank's don't, are just like using it at home in GBP (as long as you make sure you're being charged the foreign currency, not 'helpfully' converted for you (at a terrible rate) by the merchant's PoS provider).
    - 3y ago
asimpleusecase 3y ago
Android only? Lots of tourists will have iPhone
- sudshekhar 3y ago
  We support both platforms. Our download redirects to the android playstore by default on desktop. But if you open it on the iphone, it will take you to the app store. https://link-to.app/cheq https://link-to.app/cheq
pmontra 3y ago
> The Cheq UPI app works ONLY in India and we must verify your passport in-person before activating the UPI wallet. LOL, in person passport verification, really? No thanks. And even if that would be OK, where and when? The bullet points suggest that there is no sensible way for a foreigner to pay in India so I just won't go to India. That said, paying cash is probably an experience not as bad as depicted. I've been to countries were the only option was bringing local currency either from home or from an exchange counter in the capital. Not much can be worse than that.
- rusticpenn 3y ago
  In mz last visit to India, there were places which refused to accept cash. onlz UPI.
- sudshekhar 3y ago
  > And even if that would be OK, where and when? https://transcorpint.com/find-us https://transcorpint.com/find-us Multiple branches. We can also arrange for at home verification. > The bullet points suggest that there is no sensible way for a foreigner to pay in India so I just won't go to India. Hahha, Think of Cheq UPI as a convenience for the foreigner while visiting India. I am in SF currently and pay 3-5$ extra each time when I withdraw cash from ATMs. Would've loved to use an app like Cheq here itself. But I don't think there's a parallel to what we're building in the US
- bruceb 3y ago
  It can be frustrating paying cash. Most places will take cash the big problem is they dont have change. In Bangalore paying with anything over 100 rupee note (approx $1.25) and the seller might not have change. I had this problem at an very popular snack place. Tons of customers, nearly everyone paid by UPI, place didnt have change for 500rs note (approx $6.25)
OJFord 3y ago
What happens to the account when your visa expires? Or if you get a new one/OCI without interruption?
- sudshekhar 3y ago
  Once passport/visa expires, we're supposed to disable the account We'll have to verify the new documents and enable the wallet again.
  - OJFord 3y ago
    But you intend to keep it around as a sort of not usable dormant account, but if re-verified the old funds, payment history etc. still available? I would hope so, because I think otherwise I wouldn't want to use it without OCI (i.e. a perpetual visa it's not an issue) - would just be an annoying thing to keep track of.
    - sudshekhar 3y ago
      Yes, We'll just have to update your account with the latest passport/OCI proof. Your account balance and history will remain consistent and untouched.
      - marcardar 3y ago
        I just arrived in India on a 5 year visa but my indian sim card will expire after 3 months. How will I be able to keep my Cheq account/balance once the SIM card expires, for future visits?
potamic 3y ago
Congratulations on the launch! I presume you need to be licensed to build UPI applications? Curious to learn what this process involves and your experience here. Do you realistically need connections to be able to get a license?
- sudshekhar 3y ago
  More than connections, you need luck and persistance. The process itself is doable. But not easy. These are the steps you'll have to follow if you plan to launch a new UPI app: First, you'll finalize the business plan + team. Second, you'll have to find early investors and backers Third, you'll have to find a banking partner to work with Fourth, you'll have to develop the product Fifth, you'll undergo certifications and audits by RBI approved third parties Sixth, you're app will be tested by officials at the NPCI Seventh, Now you go live Only after step 7, do you get to know if customers will buy your product. Or if the entire effort goes to waste.
  - potamic 3y ago
    That's interesting, that you have to develop the product upfront before getting a license. Does that mean you also need to get approval/permission for any changes you make on the product going forward?
isuleman 3y ago
Or just exchange 1000 USD in INR at nearest Western Union counter for way minimum fee than that. A better option than giving out your personal info and biometrics.
- namdnay 3y ago
  And walk around with a years salary in your pocket? Doesn’t sound like the best idea
  - isuleman 3y ago
    If 1000 dollars is your years salary then you should not visit india for a tour.
    - pritambaral 3y ago
      To many Indians, it is more than a year's income. As an Indian citizen resident in India, I wouldn't advise a friend to be carrying around 1k USD worth or INR in cash.
      - isuleman 3y ago
        They have common sense to not keep 1k USD with them..... the point was about exchange lol ... and the fact that there are better ways than to sell your biometrics and personal information and passport just to get a stupid UPI app.
postsantum 3y ago
That's exactly what I need for an upcoming trip to Mumbai. But I am not able to download the app, is there country restriction?
- sudshekhar 3y ago
  Our app should be available in most countries and locations. Does this link not work for you? https://link-to.app/cheq https://link-to.app/cheq Can you try searching for Cheq in your app store/playstore and see if the install works from there? What's the error
  - postsantum 3y ago
    My GP account was tied to a country that is not supported, it helped to switch to another country (from G20). However I wasn't able to create an account - I received SMS but then the app got stuck on "SIM card verifying". Tried a few times to no avail
irl_ 3y ago
It's pretty upsetting that we've got India's UPI and China's UPI (UnionPay International) and they're both doing exactly the same thing and without geographical context you don't know which one it is.
- sudshekhar 3y ago
  https://www.unionpayintl.com/en/aboutUs/companyProfile/introductiontoUPI/ https://www.unionpayintl.com/en/aboutUs/companyProfile/intro... Seems like a funny coincidence Or maybe UPI becomes like the new https. Each country implementing its own versions
Californian20 3y ago
I actually used this during my trip to India two weeks ago and it was a lifesaver. Made life so much more convenient. The app is simple to use and works well. Two pain-pints for the though: * you can scan a QR code and pay, but you cannot pay to a phone number unless you add the number to your contacts (and give access to the app to your full contact list). This is obviously very cumbersome when you are trying to make a one-time payment after making a purchase. I contacted Cheq support and they had no solution. * there is no good way to withdraw remaining funds in your wallet at the end of your trip by sending it to a bank account. You can only send it to another UPI address which is pointless as NRIs don't have one to send to in the first place. Overall a good venture once you iron out the kinks.
marcardar 3y ago
I installed the app and signed up with my indian phone number (3 month tourist sim). I see the part for paying 800INR "joining fees" but nowhere is it asking for KYC verification. Is that not necessary because it is already done through the Indian sim?

163 points by sudshekhar 3y ago

abra_cad 3y ago

[flagged]

shivekkhurana 3y ago

HN is a global forum, and most people probably don't know about UPI. But this is amazing. Do you have a subscription service or do you charge a markup on forex deposits ? Also how did you build a legal structure to allow this ? Congrats on the launch. Wish you success :)

sudshekhar 3y ago
We're still playing with our pricing. 10$ joining fees and a 3.5% markup on adding funds is the current business plan. We'll observe customer usage over the next 3-6 months and figure out if fixed fee subscriptions can be cheaper. > Also how did you build a legal structure to allow this ? We've partnered with Transcorp International Limited to operate the Cheq app in India. They are an RBI approved AD2 and PPI license holder. Customer funds are parked in an escrow account with them until utilized via the UPI network. This is also why Cheq physical verification can happen only at Transcorp branches currently. You can think of Cheq as a technology platform using Transcorp as our banking partner. Or Transcorp, as a financial services firm, using Cheq as its technology partner.
- skwashd 3y ago
  The summary says: > Apart from the 10$ account opening fees, there are no other costs for using the product. Funds added can be spent anywhere across India. As mentioned above, there is a 3.5% fee for adding funds. I looked into Cheq before my recent trip to India. After doing the math I realised it was cheaper to take out some cash at the airport for smaller transactions and tips. I had no issue using my credit card at larger stores.
  - sudshekhar 3y ago
    Currently, we're not charging the 3.5% fees to customers. Its in the "plan" and we'll introduce it once the volumes go up enough to require compensations. Maybe in 2-3 months or longer. Hence, the summary says 10$ only.
  - OJFord 3y ago
    Part of the motivation is that even cash isn't accepted by everyone. Someone I was with last time I went had to get a stranger to make the UPI payment to vendor in exchange for cash. Nice of them, but what a faff, and my own Hindi wouldn't have been up to it. (Maybe you'd find someone willing and with enough English to arrange it, but that's only adding complexity.) I'd definitely prefer this next time, if I could count on being able to set it up. (Or knew I'd go again so set it up while there for next time.)

wsgolfer 3y ago

This looks like it could be very helpful. One question, how is it different than what was announced by the Reserve Bank of India earlier this year? [1] [1] https://m.timesofindia.com/business/india-business/hassle-free-payments-available-now-how-foreign-travellers-visiting-india-can-use-upi/articleshow/98138392.cms https://m.timesofindia.com/business/india-business/hassle-fr...

satya71 3y ago
RBI (India's central bank) doesn't implement the actual user facing stuff. If you read the article, it's two banks and two non-banks. One of those is Transcorp. Cheq UPI seems to be using Transcorp's backend.
sudshekhar 3y ago
We're also a part of the same initiative. Behind the scenes story below : Until last year, there was no way for Indian fintechs to provide UPI services to international citizens. The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) decided in January 2023 to issue UPI enabled wallets to international citizens visiting India during G20. We got a call late at night asking if our team can quickly deliver this solution. Our team stepped up and the first version was delivered within 30 days. This app was used to showcase UPI to various the G20 delegates who visited Bangalore in February. We've spent another 5 months tweaking things and finally, we feel ready to launch the app in front of you :)
- iprathik 3y ago
  who called?
  - SSLy 3y ago
    modi's party
  - sudshekhar 3y ago
    In our case, it was someone from the RBI
- 3y ago

rlpb 3y ago

This looks interesting, but there are some questions I still have after reading your website. Perhaps you could clarify, please? Your website says: > Verify yourself at any one of our partner branches across India How do I find out if there's a branch nearby without downloading your app and committing to an unknown amount of effort? I couldn't find a list of your branches anywhere, but it looks like it would be a showstopper if there isn't one available. It's as if you're being evasive about how widespread your coverage is. Why should I invest my time if it seems likely that you won't have a branch where I need it, and therefore I won't be able to use your services at all? For example: do you have a presence in the arrivals areas at major airports? If so, which ones? In fact, it seems that your call to action is to download your app. But why would I bother to do that if I know I won't get anywhere without visiting a branch to get approval first? Assuming you have no choice about in-person documentation checks, it would make more sense for you to send prospective customers to their nearest branch, have their documents checked and approved there, and to provide wifi at every branch so that they can get the app up and running quickly - for example with a QR code or something generated by your staff when documentation is approved and an account created. Being asked to set up the app first, when we know we will be blocked on a visit to a branch, seems backwards. Your FAQ says: > Your passport and Indian VISA are required to open a tourist wallet What about OCI holders? Are your branch staff going to be familiar with this case, or will it be a waste of time to show up with one? > You can add funds to your tourist wallet via an instant payment gateway. This is a non-answer. Is this through the app? Through the website? Through something else not specified? Are there any criteria that must be met? Or do you support adding funds immediately via credit card without any further review steps apart from the usual payment flow expected when buying anything else online? Because that's what I'd like, and this answer makes me doubt that this is what you mean.

sudshekhar 3y ago
Hey, answering the questions below 1) https://transcorpint.com/find-us https://transcorpint.com/find-us => You can verify yourself at any of these centers across India. We'll improve the site to directly point customers to appropriate verification centers (thanks for pointing this out) 2) OCI holders are accepted as well. Only your passport and OCI card are required 3) Add funds facility is instantenous. And is available in the app once you've finished the verification. You'll be able to add funds via any card, and instantly receive funds in your Cheq wallet for spending.

mortureb 3y ago

How interesting. This is a niche I keep seeing mentioned on HN but never made the connection to providing a solution. Nice work!

knotty66 3y ago

I would use this. Is there anywhere in Goa I can verify my passport? Or maybe in Mumbai / Dabolim airport?

sudshekhar 3y ago
We'll arrange for an agent in Mumbai/Goa. Simply purchase the product, finish your setup and speak with your assigned account representative. They'll get you activated

toomuchtodo 3y ago

Can you continue to use this from outside India once identity proofed within India?

sudshekhar 3y ago
Currently, you can only make payments using the app while you're in India. Your wallet will remain active and you can use the funds next time you visit again. But we have geofencing restrictions which prevent customers from initiating payments while outside the country. Due to certain regulatory restrictions.
- toomuchtodo 3y ago
  Understandable. Thank you for the reply, great product, best of luck!
- orochimaaru 3y ago
  Won’t vpns circumvent geofencing? I use one often.
  - linolo 3y ago
    Yup they will. Because of Reserve Bank of India guidelines, Cheq needs to at least show that they are making an effort to prevent domestic transactions being made outside India
    - OJFord 3y ago
      What's the reasoning here? AML somehow? Or just that large amounts transferred in should be subject to import tax (that just doesn't seem like it would be RBI concern)? Because, on a basic high-level look, why would a country not want inflows of foreign cash, typically you do want to sell goods/services for foreign money, good for GDP.
      - sudshekhar 3y ago

martinald 3y ago

Very interesting given how much success UPI is having. Some feedback: Bad typo on homepage (should be sponsor not sponser - also why is this so prominent on your landing page, seems weird). Who is transcorp and how are you related to them? Western people are very unlikely to have heard of them (I had to Google), and are you part of them, powered by them, etc? It's confusing having two brands like that at the top of your page. The two "British" video testimonials don't have British accents. Are you sure they are actually British? Finally in terms of practical steps I think not having branches at airports to do the KYC checks is a major issue. Btw, I think partnerships would be a good way to market yourself. There are a lot of prepaid travel cards in the west and I can imagine they'd be happy to look at promoting you.

sudshekhar 3y ago
> Bad typo on homepage (should be sponsor not sponser - also why is this so prominent on your landing page, seems weird). Will get this fixed. Also improve the positioning of it. The idea behind getting sponsors was to keep the customer charges as low as possible. We're attracing a very premium customer base and I am confident merchants would like to place themselves before our audience. > Who is transcorp and how are you related to them? Western people are very unlikely to have heard of them (I had to Google), and are you part of them, powered by them, etc? It's confusing having two brands like that at the top of your page. Transcorp is our banking/licensing partner. We're currently using their services in India to manage customer funds and power our UPI connection. I understand your feedback though. We'll work on presenting this better. > The two "British" video testimonials don't have British accents. Are you sure they are actually British? Hahah, Nice catch. I just rechecked. Andrew is British. Olivia is American. Leo is Russian. We'll update this. > Btw, I think partnerships would be a good way to market yourself. There are a lot of prepaid travel cards in the west and I can imagine they'd be happy to look at promoting you. That's a great idea. We'll definitely explore this route for growth.

kylehotchkiss 3y ago

You guys need to try, try, try to figure this out without the passport verification. I've spent a lot of visits to India and having to hand my passport to some local shopkeeper feels like an invitation for identity theft. People who grew up in the USA have been told their whole lives to protect their documents and this is a pretty big leap of faith for little benefit over grabbing cash from the ATM. Edit: to be more helpful, a system like this would be more exciting for me - Upload the passport in app, the passport is verified only by a salaried and background-checked (you know, like a police clearance certificate) staff that is a employee of your company (not a third party or contractor). Have a clearly written policy about record keeping, security of the storage, pursue legal charges against employees who don't adhere to privacy policy. Etc.

kylehotchkiss 3y ago
FWIW, you have a competitor who could very well figure out a UPI payments piece shortly (they don't seem to support the QR codes piece yet) (https://wise.com/in/blog/send-money-to-india-with-upi https://wise.com/in/blog/send-money-to-india-with-upi) and they have built in passport verification without the shopkeeper & scanner part. It'd be good to start without the rigidity of that step.
- KomoD 3y ago
  Wise supports UPI? Great, way more trustworthy than this
  - kylehotchkiss 3y ago
    Apple appears to be trying to talk about implementing some form of UPI too! https://techcrunch.com/2023/06/22/apple-looks-to-resume-talks-for-apple-pay-launch-in-india/ https://techcrunch.com/2023/06/22/apple-looks-to-resume-talk...
  - sudshekhar 3y ago
    Wise UPI can only be used to send money to third parties. You cannot use them to make everyday purchases. And there's no guarantee by when the recipient will receive money.

spraveenitpro 3y ago

[dead]

optimistprime 3y ago

Love the idea, but honestly it's too much friction to start using your product. Please consider in-app passport verification and wallet creation. Also the website does not seem to be well thought out - 1. No mention of how to use UPI or Cheq. 2. Where to go to get verified? 3. I could not find an ios app. Is there one coming soon? 4. Too many typos as others too have noted. "UPI wallet let’s you pay " <-- lets 5. Lots of irrelevant content on the home page. 6. Confusing "get started" button that is actually an image.

sudshekhar 3y ago
We're live on both android and ios. You can use this link to view the apps directly. https://link-to.app/cheq https://link-to.app/cheq And thanks for all the suggestions. We'll improve the website asap.
pmontra 3y ago
> Please consider in-app passport verification and wallet creation. Definitely. And make it possible to do it from home before flying to India. Tourists have more time there than after landing into an airport and starting to move around the country, maybe even without spending a night in a hotel first.

abhinai 3y ago

I am your exact target and I could try this right away. Can you please give more details on what currency conversion fees can be expected?

sudshekhar 3y ago
For this month at least, we're running a zero forex sale. You'll be able to purchase INR using your international card at no extra cost apart from the 10$ basically. Standard add money rate will be 3.5% . Whenever we start applying the same. This is less than half the fees charged by airport money changers.

Brajeshwar 3y ago

Excellent, and I love the idea. We (a community of 400+ founders in a small Bangalore community) were even discussing you guys a few days back. I have given this feedback earlier, too, but the copy sounds Ind-lish at most places. Your customers are going to be primarily non-Indian. It would be best to have a native speaker, such as an American, to review and re-write. I’m an Indian and have worked primarily with overseas clients since the early 00s. I have learned a lot about what we speak/write sounds normal, but they sound either funny at best or rude at worst. Not in a derogatory way, and I’m guilty of being one myself, too. However, this is what I equate to, “Quite a tad of our Indian English is like driving a car with the handbrake half-engaged or sawing a hardwood with an unsharpened tool.” Best of luck. This tool needs to exit.

sudshekhar 3y ago
> I have given this feedback earlier, too, but the copy sounds Ind-lish at most places. Thank you very much for the suggestion! > It would be best to have a native speaker, such as an American, to review and re-write. Great idea. We'll definitely try to work with someone in this capacity. We're already incorporating multiple language support and language translations.
reacharavindh 3y ago
I see where you are coming from. But, as an NRI, I found the writing authentic. Just like American English, English English, Australian English, it is Indian English. Nothing to be unproud of and criticized about.. I’d perhaps be happy to see translation options as Indian English, American, UK etc on a modern humorous tone :-)
- Brajeshwar 3y ago
  It is perfectly OK to move fast and do the `Juggad`[1] in the beginning, but, from my experience, once they succeed, they will eventually do that - improve the copies. I was suggesting to focus on that early on. It is akin to improving on the UX — get the product’s core working with crappy UX but then improve as the product succeeds. Please go through the WebArchive of any successful Indian Startups (even the ones focused on Indians); they all eventually moved to a more Internationally better sounding English. We Indians can understand them and are not culturally nostalgic or patriotic about “Indian English.” While we are at it, I guarantee that once they succeed, if not the founder of Cheq, the investors and/or external forces will force them to buy `Cheq.com.` I will be surprised if they are not thinking of getting that domain already. 1. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jugaad https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jugaad

fakedang 3y ago

For those not in the know, I believe it's possible for NRIs with an Indian Bank account (NRE/NRO) to use UPI. https://m.economictimes.com/wealth/save/upi-for-nris-with-international-mobile-numbers-who-can-use-how-it-will-benefit-explained/articleshow/99834299.cms https://m.economictimes.com/wealth/save/upi-for-nris-with-in... The list of countries are Canada, Singapore, UK, USA, UAE, Oman, Qatar, Saudi Arabia and Australia.

orochimaaru 3y ago
It is, but it’s a pain in the rear end to maintain that account. This is what happened. I had an NRE with icici. But kyc requirements kick in after some period during which the account is idle. This happened often, because I don’t use it when I’m in the US and my parents didn’t use it in India. Getting that unlocked was a bit of a process needing snail mail and identity documents. It wasn’t icici’s fault. They were super helpful. In short, I closed the account. Besides the depreciating rupee makes it not so attractive to keep dollars in India anymore.
- fakedang 3y ago
  > the depreciating rupee makes it not so attractive to keep dollars in India anymore. This has been the case for the past decade though, still no reason to keep money in India except pocket change for local expenses. I simply gave my relationship manager an email with all the necessary docs. While very unsafe, it's convenient and a single point of failure. Also helps that I only have the equivalent of like 10k USD in the account.

redindian75 3y ago

I struggled a lot with this exact problem during my trip to India last year, so I am your perfect NRI customer. I don't have an Indian phone number, so GPay and PayTM were out of reach. So I had to use my parents' phone everywhere. This app is great for my next visit. However, in-person-branch-verification is a big non-starter for me. It needs to be more convenient than visiting a branch. If I have to visit a branch, I might as well open an NRE account; there's an ICICI on every street. I checked your list and I don't see any Tier 2 cities. There's nothing all over Tamil Nadu and Kerala except Chennai. So, in the absence of a 24/7 kiosk or manned counter in every major international airport (3-4 in each state), you need to have an option for pre-verification online/FaceTime/webcam or via document upload. Otherwise, the inconvenience of a branch visit negates any usefulness. Also, why restrict the app to work only in India? I should be able to load money and withdraw money wherever. Just disable the payment part.

mortureb 3y ago
Anything with in person anything is an immediate no go. Come on guys, find a way around this. There absolutely has to be a way to do this over the internet.
- sudshekhar 3y ago
  We did try pushing for an online account opening process. However, it's not allowed under existing India regulations. We plan to scale with doorstep verification services in the meantime.
- tyingq 3y ago
  Finding a way to get a presence in the major airports would probably make it reasonable. Partnership with someone already there, like a currency exchange booth? Then, at some point, maybe there's enough volume to gain leverage with the bureaucrats to go all online.
sudshekhar 3y ago
> Otherwise, the inconvenience of a branch visit negates any usefulness. Unfortunately, existing regulations in India mandate a one-time physical verification before we can unlock you for a full-fledged prepaid account without applying artificial limits. Our team is definitely looking into way to make this entire process online and as hassle-free as possible. And we're looking for ways to unblock activation directly at airports. Will keep you posted as things develop. > Also, why restrict the app to work only in India? I am unsure but somewhere in the RBI regulations it says prepaid wallets are only supposed to work while customers are in India. At least that's what we've been informed by the lawyers. Hence transactions are currently disallowed from outside. But if enough folks adopt Cheq, I am confident we can ask the government for relaxations. Technically, its super easy for us.

Aperocky 3y ago

> we must verify your passport in-person before activating the UPI wallet. How are you planning to make this scale? Presumably you want a significant portion of the 10 million traveler yearly to use this app.

sudshekhar 3y ago
We plan to tie up with sim card vendors operating in airports around India. That should hopefully make it more convenient for people to finish their activation. Longer term solution however, will be doorstep verification facilitated by the Transcorp team / in-house agents.

bandrami 3y ago

Nice! This is a definite pain point for visiting India so this is great.

asimpleusecase 3y ago

I am a likely user. You need to be in major airports at the very least.

satranj 3y ago

This is interesting. Having the in-person verification of passport at the international airports of India would be make it lot more easier for folks to use it.

papul1993 3y ago

Hi OP. Is there any way for me to invest in your startup? I am, by no means a VC. Just a normal salaried individual that wishes to invest a little bit in your startup.

sudshekhar 3y ago
Please drop me a note on sudhanshu[at]cheq[dot]money Happy to chat.

Yeul 3y ago

In the Netherlands we just let dumb foreigners use their creditcard instead of making things complicated for them. You'll be charged an arm and a leg for it though but if you stick to the approved tourist areas your Visacard will be accepted.

sudshekhar 3y ago
You can of course use your credit card / cash to make spends while travelling in India as well. But UPI will feel more convenient. And it works everywhere.
- rusticpenn 3y ago
  None of my credit cards worked the last time I visited.
kmlx 3y ago
ignoring the tone of this comment, “charged an arm and a leg” = pennies. i guess pennies are now valuable in the netherlands? in any case, the Dutch supermarket chain albert heijn still doesn’t accept any cards except some non starter locally developed ones. i always found it interesting that the netherlands are so far behind places like the UK when it comes to payments. even countries in SE Europe have better payments infra than the Netherlands.
- OJFord 3y ago
  Not sure where you're from, but it's true at least if I went to NL from the UK and used any credit card, there'd be probably both 1) an awful FX rate; 2) a flat charge. ATMs are typically worse, even if the machine operator itself doesn't add a fee. Some debit cards (or pre-paid 'charge cards', such as any specifically marketed for travel) like Monzo bank's don't, are just like using it at home in GBP (as long as you make sure you're being charged the foreign currency, not 'helpfully' converted for you (at a terrible rate) by the merchant's PoS provider).
  - 3y ago

asimpleusecase 3y ago

Android only? Lots of tourists will have iPhone

sudshekhar 3y ago
We support both platforms. Our download redirects to the android playstore by default on desktop. But if you open it on the iphone, it will take you to the app store. https://link-to.app/cheq https://link-to.app/cheq

pmontra 3y ago

> The Cheq UPI app works ONLY in India and we must verify your passport in-person before activating the UPI wallet. LOL, in person passport verification, really? No thanks. And even if that would be OK, where and when? The bullet points suggest that there is no sensible way for a foreigner to pay in India so I just won't go to India. That said, paying cash is probably an experience not as bad as depicted. I've been to countries were the only option was bringing local currency either from home or from an exchange counter in the capital. Not much can be worse than that.

rusticpenn 3y ago
In mz last visit to India, there were places which refused to accept cash. onlz UPI.
sudshekhar 3y ago
> And even if that would be OK, where and when? https://transcorpint.com/find-us https://transcorpint.com/find-us Multiple branches. We can also arrange for at home verification. > The bullet points suggest that there is no sensible way for a foreigner to pay in India so I just won't go to India. Hahha, Think of Cheq UPI as a convenience for the foreigner while visiting India. I am in SF currently and pay 3-5$ extra each time when I withdraw cash from ATMs. Would've loved to use an app like Cheq here itself. But I don't think there's a parallel to what we're building in the US
bruceb 3y ago
It can be frustrating paying cash. Most places will take cash the big problem is they dont have change. In Bangalore paying with anything over 100 rupee note (approx $1.25) and the seller might not have change. I had this problem at an very popular snack place. Tons of customers, nearly everyone paid by UPI, place didnt have change for 500rs note (approx $6.25)

OJFord 3y ago

What happens to the account when your visa expires? Or if you get a new one/OCI without interruption?

sudshekhar 3y ago
Once passport/visa expires, we're supposed to disable the account We'll have to verify the new documents and enable the wallet again.
- OJFord 3y ago
  But you intend to keep it around as a sort of not usable dormant account, but if re-verified the old funds, payment history etc. still available? I would hope so, because I think otherwise I wouldn't want to use it without OCI (i.e. a perpetual visa it's not an issue) - would just be an annoying thing to keep track of.
  - sudshekhar 3y ago
    Yes, We'll just have to update your account with the latest passport/OCI proof. Your account balance and history will remain consistent and untouched.
    - marcardar 3y ago
      I just arrived in India on a 5 year visa but my indian sim card will expire after 3 months. How will I be able to keep my Cheq account/balance once the SIM card expires, for future visits?

potamic 3y ago

Congratulations on the launch! I presume you need to be licensed to build UPI applications? Curious to learn what this process involves and your experience here. Do you realistically need connections to be able to get a license?

sudshekhar 3y ago
More than connections, you need luck and persistance. The process itself is doable. But not easy. These are the steps you'll have to follow if you plan to launch a new UPI app: First, you'll finalize the business plan + team. Second, you'll have to find early investors and backers Third, you'll have to find a banking partner to work with Fourth, you'll have to develop the product Fifth, you'll undergo certifications and audits by RBI approved third parties Sixth, you're app will be tested by officials at the NPCI Seventh, Now you go live Only after step 7, do you get to know if customers will buy your product. Or if the entire effort goes to waste.
- potamic 3y ago
  That's interesting, that you have to develop the product upfront before getting a license. Does that mean you also need to get approval/permission for any changes you make on the product going forward?

isuleman 3y ago

Or just exchange 1000 USD in INR at nearest Western Union counter for way minimum fee than that. A better option than giving out your personal info and biometrics.

namdnay 3y ago
And walk around with a years salary in your pocket? Doesn’t sound like the best idea
- isuleman 3y ago
  If 1000 dollars is your years salary then you should not visit india for a tour.
  - pritambaral 3y ago
    To many Indians, it is more than a year's income. As an Indian citizen resident in India, I wouldn't advise a friend to be carrying around 1k USD worth or INR in cash.
    - isuleman 3y ago
      They have common sense to not keep 1k USD with them..... the point was about exchange lol ... and the fact that there are better ways than to sell your biometrics and personal information and passport just to get a stupid UPI app.

postsantum 3y ago

That's exactly what I need for an upcoming trip to Mumbai. But I am not able to download the app, is there country restriction?

sudshekhar 3y ago
Our app should be available in most countries and locations. Does this link not work for you? https://link-to.app/cheq https://link-to.app/cheq Can you try searching for Cheq in your app store/playstore and see if the install works from there? What's the error
- postsantum 3y ago
  My GP account was tied to a country that is not supported, it helped to switch to another country (from G20). However I wasn't able to create an account - I received SMS but then the app got stuck on "SIM card verifying". Tried a few times to no avail

irl_ 3y ago

It's pretty upsetting that we've got India's UPI and China's UPI (UnionPay International) and they're both doing exactly the same thing and without geographical context you don't know which one it is.

sudshekhar 3y ago
https://www.unionpayintl.com/en/aboutUs/companyProfile/introductiontoUPI/ https://www.unionpayintl.com/en/aboutUs/companyProfile/intro... Seems like a funny coincidence Or maybe UPI becomes like the new https. Each country implementing its own versions

Californian20 3y ago

I actually used this during my trip to India two weeks ago and it was a lifesaver. Made life so much more convenient. The app is simple to use and works well. Two pain-pints for the though: * you can scan a QR code and pay, but you cannot pay to a phone number unless you add the number to your contacts (and give access to the app to your full contact list). This is obviously very cumbersome when you are trying to make a one-time payment after making a purchase. I contacted Cheq support and they had no solution. * there is no good way to withdraw remaining funds in your wallet at the end of your trip by sending it to a bank account. You can only send it to another UPI address which is pointless as NRIs don't have one to send to in the first place. Overall a good venture once you iron out the kinks.

marcardar 3y ago

I installed the app and signed up with my indian phone number (3 month tourist sim). I see the part for paying 800INR "joining fees" but nowhere is it asking for KYC verification. Is that not necessary because it is already done through the Indian sim?