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Foreign Visa and Mastercard cards issued outside Russia are declined at every Russian terminal and ATM. Payment services like Apple Pay, Google Pay, and foreign Revolut cards also do not work inside the country. Travelers must rely on cash, local Mir cards, or certain foreign UnionPay cards.
Answer · From the editor · 06/09/2026
Foreigners need a valid passport, a Russian migration card obtained at the border, and a local Russian phone number. In addition, an INN tax identification number is required to complete the process. With banks like T-Bank and Alfa-Bank, accounts are usually opened within one to two hours.
Answer · From the editor · 06/09/2026
To obtain an INN, visit any FNS tax office or MFC with a passport and a notarised Russian translation of the data page. You then fill out form №2-2-Учет provided by the clerk to complete the application. The certificate is free and issued either the same day or within five working days, or banks can request it on your behalf.
Answer · From the editor · 06/09/2026
SBP is an instant transfer rail that allows users to send money to anyone in any Russian bank using their phone number in under five seconds. Transfers are free up to 100,000 RUB per month across all accounts, with a 0.5 percent fee capped at 1,500 RUB for amounts above that threshold. In daily life, people also use SBP QR codes to pay at restaurants, kiosks, and for taxis.
Answer · From the editor · 06/09/2026
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Written by Vlad Lario
Russian in Lisbon. I read both sides and write down what differs.
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