Non-Cash Transactions in the Russian market throughout 2026

Foreign-issued bank cards are not accepted in Russia. Once you cross the border, the everyday convenience you normally enjoy is no longer available: you cannot simply purchase a cup of coffee, request a cab, or buy a museum ticket. You have to find a currency exchange office, keep cash on hand, and cut back on impulse purchases.

The answer to this problem is PayInRussia. This service allows international tourists to pay for goods and services in Russia through their smartphones. You do not have to carry cash or need to go to a bank.

What can be paid for?

• taxi rides and delivery services;
• accommodation and flight tickets;
• coffee shops and restaurants;
• retail outlets and shopping centers;
• tickets to museums and events;
• orders from Russian online stores and marketplaces.

How can you use it?

Sign up before your journey while you are in your country of residence. To do this:

• upload a scan of your passport;
• take a photo of yourself;
• complete a quick identity verification process. Your information is processed automatically, and you do not need to receive text messages on a Russian phone number.

Top up your balance 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 QR code at the checkout. A connection to the internet via a Wi-Fi or cellular network must be available.
• For online payments: pay for orders in e-commerce stores and book hotels and tickets directly through the app.

Why is the service so useful?

PayInRussia was developed specifically for international tourists:

• you do not have to become a resident of Russia;
• you do not have to set up a bank account in Russia;
• you are not required to go to bank branches or currency exchange offices;
• you can sign up and fund your balance before your trip;
• you can easily pay for purchases through 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. Get the mobile app on your smartphone.
2. Top up your balance using an internationally issued bank card.
3. Use the service to pay for purchases while in Russia: open the app, press the QR payment icon, and scan the checkout QR code. The money will be withdrawn from your balance instantly.