QR Code Payments in the Russian Federation Clarified

Bank cards issued outside Russia cannot be used in Russia. Once you cross the border, the convenience you are used to becomes inaccessible: you cannot simply pay for coffee, request a cab, or get admission to a museum. You need to find a currency exchange office, carry cash with you, and limit spontaneous purchases.

The solution is PayInRussia. This service allows foreign travelers to pay for goods and services in Russia through their smartphones. payinrussia.com You do not have to carry cash or visit a bank branch.

What can be paid for?

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• taxi trips and delivery services;
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• hotel stays and plane tickets;
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• coffee shops and restaurants;
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• retail outlets and shopping centers;
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• museum and event tickets;
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• orders from Russian online stores and marketplaces.
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How does the service work?

Create your account before traveling while you are still in your home country. To get started:

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• upload a scan of your passport;
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• take a selfie;
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• complete a quick identity verification process. Your document data is detected automatically, and SMS verification through a Russian phone number is not required.
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Deposit money into your account using a card issued by a foreign bank or a payment service available in a supported country prior to your arrival in Russia.

Pay for your purchases:

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• Offline: scan the QR code at the checkout. An internet connection via a Wi-Fi or cellular network must be available.
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• On the internet: pay in online stores and book hotels and tickets straight from the mobile app.
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Why is it convenient?

PayInRussia has been created specifically for international tourists:

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• you do not have to become a resident of Russia;
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• you are not required to open a bank account in Russia;
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• you are not required to go to bank offices or currency exchange bureaus;
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• you can create an account and add funds in advance of your journey;
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• you can pay conveniently using your smartphone;
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• the service is suitable for short visits as well as longer stays.
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How do you get started? Just follow three simple steps:

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2. Download the app on your smartphone.
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4. Fund your account using an internationally issued bank card.
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6. Pay for purchases in Russia: launch the application, press the QR payment icon, and scan the code at the checkout. The money will be debited from your account right away.
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