Cards issued by foreign banks cannot be used in Russia. After you cross the Russian border, your usual payment convenience becomes inaccessible: you can no longer easily pay for your coffee, book a taxi, or get admission to a museum. You have to look for a currency exchange bureau, carry cash with you, and avoid unplanned spending.

A convenient solution is PayInRussia. This service enables international tourists to pay for goods and services in Russia with their mobile phones. You do not need cash or have to visit a bank.

Which purchases and services can you pay for?

• cab rides and courier deliveries;
• accommodation and flight tickets;
• coffee shops and restaurants;
• shops and shopping centers;
• museum and event tickets;
• orders from Russian online stores and marketplaces.

How does it work?

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

• scan your passport;
• take a photo of yourself;
• complete a brief identity check. 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 bank card issued outside Russia or an eligible payment platform operating in a supported country before traveling to Russia.

Make payments for your purchases:

• In physical locations: scan the checkout QR code. An internet connection via Wi-Fi or a mobile network is required.
• Online: pay for orders in e-commerce stores and make hotel reservations and buy tickets right in the application.

Why is it convenient?

PayInRussia was developed specifically for international tourists:

• you do not need to be a resident of the Russian Federation;
• you do not need to open an account with a Russian bank;
• you can avoid visiting banks or foreign exchange offices;
• you can register and top up your balance in advance of your journey;
• you can pay conveniently using your smartphone;
• the service is suitable for both brief and long-term journeys.

What do you need to do to begin? Just follow three simple steps:

1. Get the mobile app on your smartphone.
2. Top up your balance using a bank card issued abroad.
3. Use the service to pay for purchases while in Russia: launch the application, tap the QR code icon, and use your camera to scan the code at the payment terminal. The money will be debited from your account right away.