Cards issued by foreign banks cannot be used in Russia. As soon as you enter the country, the everyday convenience you normally enjoy disappears: you are unable to conveniently purchase a cup of coffee, book a taxi, or purchase a ticket to a museum. You are forced to search for a place to exchange money, carry cash with you, and avoid unplanned spending.

The solution is PayInRussia. The platform allows foreign travelers to pay for purchases and services in Russia with their mobile phones. https://payinrussia.com/ You do not need cash or visit a bank branch.

What can be paid for?

  • cab rides and courier deliveries;
  • hotel stays and plane tickets;
  • coffee shops and restaurants;
  • shops and shopping centers;
  • tickets to museums and events;
  • orders placed with Russian online retailers and marketplaces.

How does the service work?

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

  • use your phone to scan your passport;
  • take a selfie;
  • go through a fast identity verification procedure. Your document data is recognized automatically, and SMS verification through a Russian phone number is not required.

Add funds to your balance using a foreign-issued bank card or a payment service available in a supported country before traveling to Russia.

Pay for your purchases:

  • Offline: scan the checkout QR code. A connection to the internet via a Wi-Fi or cellular network is necessary.
  • On the internet: pay in online stores and reserve accommodation and purchase tickets straight from the mobile app.

Why is it convenient?

PayInRussia has been created with overseas visitors in mind:

  • 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 banks or foreign exchange offices;
  • you can register and top up your balance before you travel;
  • you can easily pay for purchases through your smartphone;
  • the service is ideal for both brief and long-term journeys.

How do you get started? Get started in three easy steps:

  1. Download the app to your smartphone.
  2. Fund your account using an international bank card.
  3. Make payments for goods and services in Russia: open the app, select the QR code symbol, and scan the code at the checkout. The money will be deducted from your balance immediately.