Bank cards issued outside Russia are not accepted in Russia. After you cross the Russian border, the convenience you are used to disappears: you are unable to conveniently pay for coffee, request a cab, or purchase a ticket to a museum. You need to look for a currency exchange bureau, carry cash with you, and limit spontaneous purchases.

The solution is PayInRussia. This service allows international tourists to pay for goods and services in Russia with their mobile phones. You can manage without cash or visit a bank branch.

What can be paid for?

• 
  
• cab rides and courier deliveries;
  
• accommodation and flight tickets;
  
• cafes and dining establishments;
  
• shops and shopping centers;
  
• tickets to museums and events;
  
• orders placed with Russian online retailers and marketplaces.
  

How can you use it?

Sign up before your journey while you are in your country of residence. To complete the registration:

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

Top up your balance using a card issued by a foreign bank or a payment service available in a supported country before you arrive in Russia.

Pay for your purchases:

• 
  
• At physical points of sale: scan the QR code at the checkout. An internet connection via Wi-Fi or mobile data 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 designed specifically for international tourists:

• 
  
• you are not required to be a resident of the Russian Federation;
  
• you are not required to open an account at a Russian bank;
  
• 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 make convenient payments with your mobile phone;
  
• the service is convenient for short visits as well as longer stays.
  

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

1. 
   
2. Install the application on your mobile phone.
   
3. Add money to your balance using an internationally issued bank card.
   
4. Pay for purchases in Russia: start the mobile app, select the QR code symbol, and scan the code at the checkout. The money will be deducted from your balance immediately.