Modern Payment Options in Russia

Bank cards issued outside Russia cannot be used in Russia. Once you cross the border, your usual payment convenience is no longer available: you can no longer easily purchase a cup of coffee, request a cab, or get admission to a museum. You need to find a currency exchange office, keep cash on hand, and limit spontaneous purchases.

The solution is PayInRussia. This service helps 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?

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• taxi rides and delivery services;
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• accommodation and flight tickets;
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• coffee shops and restaurants;
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• shops and shopping centers;
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• museum and event tickets;
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• purchases from Russian e-commerce stores and marketplaces.
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How does it work?

Create your account before traveling while you are in your country of residence. To get started:

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• scan your passport;
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• take a photo of yourself;
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• complete a brief identity check. Your document data is detected automatically, and you do not need to receive text messages on a Russian phone number.
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Deposit money into your account using a foreign-issued bank card or a supported international payment service prior to your arrival in Russia.

Make payments for your purchases:

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• In physical locations: scan the QR code at the checkout. A connection to the internet via Wi-Fi or mobile data is required.
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• For online payments: pay for orders in e-commerce stores and make hotel reservations and buy tickets directly through the app.
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Why is the service so useful?

PayInRussia was developed especially for foreign travelers:

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• you are not required to be a resident of Russia;
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• you are not required to open an account with a Russian bank;
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• you do not have to visit bank offices or currency exchange bureaus;
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• you can create an account and add funds before you travel;
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• you can make convenient payments through 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? It only takes three straightforward steps:

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2. Download the app on your smartphone.
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4. Fund your account using a bank card issued abroad.
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6. Make payments for goods and services in Russia: launch the application, tap the QR code icon, and scan the code at the checkout. The money will be withdrawn from your balance instantly.
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