How to Make Payments in Russia during 2026

Cards issued by foreign banks are not accepted in Russia. As soon as you enter the country, the everyday convenience you normally enjoy is no longer available: you can no longer easily pay for coffee, book a taxi, or purchase a ticket to a museum. You need to find a currency exchange office, bring physical money with you, and avoid unplanned spending.

The solution is PayInRussia. The platform enables visitors from other countries to pay for goods and services in Russia using their smartphones. You do not need cash or visit a bank branch.

What can you pay for?

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• taxi rides and delivery services;
  
• hotels and airline tickets;
  
• cafes and dining establishments;
  
• retail outlets and shopping centers;
  
• admission to museums and various events;
  
• orders placed with Russian online retailers and marketplaces.
  

How can you use it?

Create your account before traveling while you are still in your home country. To do this:

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• use your phone to scan your passport;
  
• capture a selfie;
  
• complete a quick identity verification process. Your personal details is recognized automatically, and no text messages sent to a Russian phone number are required.
  

Deposit money into your account using a card issued by a foreign bank or a supported international payment service before traveling to Russia.

Use the service to pay for purchases:

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• Offline: scan the QR code at the checkout. An internet connection via Wi-Fi or mobile data is required.
  
• On the internet: make purchases from online shops and make hotel reservations and buy tickets right in the application.
  

Why is the service so useful?

PayInRussia has been created especially for foreign travelers:

• 
  
• you do not need to be a resident of Russia;
  
• you do not have to set up an account at a Russian bank;
  
• you are not required to go to bank offices or currency exchange bureaus;
  
• you can sign up and fund your balance before your trip;
  
• you can make convenient payments using your smartphone;
  
• the service is ideal for short visits as well as longer stays.
  

What do you need to do to begin? Get started in three easy steps:

1. 
   
2. Download the app on your mobile phone.
   
3. Add money to your balance using an internationally issued bank card.
   
4. Make payments for goods and services in Russia: start the mobile app, press the QR payment icon, and scan the code at the checkout. https://payinrussia.com/ The money will be deducted from your balance immediately.