Many Filipinos abroad want to use GCash for remittances, bills payment, or sending money back home—but the biggest roadblock has always been the same: you need a Philippine SIM to register.
Good news: GCash has now rolled out the GCash International Wallet, which allows users to create an account even without a PH SIM card. This guide will walk you through how it works, how to register, and what to expect if you’re using GCash outside the Philippines.
What Is the GCash International Wallet?
The GCash International Wallet is a feature that allows users abroad to sign up for GCash using a foreign mobile number.
This was created for:
- OFWs without a PH SIM
- Former Filipinos living abroad
- Travelers who want access to GCash payments
- Foreigners receiving money from PH-based senders
You will be using the same GCash app, but with a limited version of the wallet that works with international numbers.
Requirements to Open a GCash International Wallet
Before you register, prepare the following:
- A foreign mobile number (active; can receive SMS)
- A valid ID (passport recommended)
- Selfie camera (for verification)
- Active internet connection
Optional but recommended:
- Philippine bank account or e-wallet if you plan to send money to PH
Step-by-Step Guide: How to Register for GCash Outside the Philippines
Step 1 — Download the GCash App
GCash is available in the App Store, Google Play, and Huawei AppGallery.
Make sure you are using the latest version.
Step 2 — Open the App and Click “Create Account”
On the welcome screen, tap Create Account.
Step 3 — Select Country and Enter Your Foreign Mobile Number
GCash will now ask you for your country of residence and your foreign number.
Examples of supported numbers:
- UAE
- Saudi Arabia
- Singapore
- Qatar
- Japan
- Canada
- USA
(Additional countries continue to be added.)
Enter your number and wait for the OTP.
Step 4 — Enter Your Basic Information
Fill out your:
- Full name
- Birthday
- Address (your current country address is accepted)
Step 5 — Verify Using a Valid ID
GCash will require a valid ID for verification.
Accepted IDs vary per country, but most commonly accepted are:
- Passport
- Philippine Driver’s License
- UMID
- SSS ID
- National ID
- Resident ID (some countries)
GCash may ask for:
- Photo of the ID
- Selfie scan
Step 6 — Set Your MPIN
This will be your 4-digit PIN to log in.
Once done, your GCash International Wallet will be activated.
What You Can and Cannot Do With a GCash International Wallet
Features You Can Use
- Cash-in from international remittance partners
- Receive money from PH-based GCash users
- Pay bills in the Philippines
- Buy load (PH network load only)
- Send money to PH-based users
Limitations
- Some features are locked unless you upgrade to full verification
- You cannot use the PH-only “Linked Bank” options
- Higher limits may require additional documents
- Not all countries are supported yet
GCash is still rolling out global support, so features may expand over time.
How to Cash-In to GCash if You’re Abroad
Here are the most common ways:
Option 1 — Through International Remittance Partners
Popular partners include:
- Wise
- Remitly
- Western Union
- Ria
- Xoom
- MoneyGram
You simply select “GCash” as the receiving wallet.
Option 2 — Through Your Philippine Bank
If you still maintain a PH bank account, you can transfer via:
- BPI
- BDO
- Metrobank
- UnionBank
- Maya
- Online banks (SeaBank, CIMB, UNO)
Just send money via InstaPay or PESONet.
Option 3 — Via Foreign Bank Debit or Card (Limited)
Some foreign cards are accepted during promo periods.
This feature comes and goes depending on GCash’s partners.
Fees and Wallet Limits for International Users
GCash applies the same general wallet limits for verified users:
- Basic: Around ₱10,000 wallet limit
- Fully Verified: Up to ₱100,000
- Max Verified: Up to ₱500,000 (with GSave, GInvest, etc.)
However, availability may differ per country.
Some cash-in partners may charge additional fees.
Is It Safe to Use GCash Abroad?
Yes—GCash uses:
- Face verification
- One-time passwords
- 2-factor authentication
- Device binding
- Real-time fraud monitoring
Just make sure to:
- Never share your MPIN
- Avoid using public WiFi
- Keep your SIM active to receive security alerts
Blogger’s Corner
The rollout of the GCash International Wallet is a big win for millions of Filipinos abroad who have struggled with the old SIM requirement. With this update, OFWs and former Filipinos now have easier access to Philippine services—whether for bills, remittances, or sending money to their families.
This is still a developing feature, and GCash is continuously adding supported countries and improving verification. If you’re abroad, this might be the easiest way to stay connected to your financial life in the Philippines.