Bank cards issued outside Russia cannot be used in Russia. As soon as you enter the country, the everyday convenience you normally enjoy becomes inaccessible: you cannot simply pay for coffee, request a cab, or purchase a ticket to a museum. You have to find a currency exchange office, keep cash on hand, and limit spontaneous purchases.

The solution is PayInRussia. payinrussia.com This payment service allows visitors from other countries to pay for purchases and services in Russia using their smartphones. You do not need cash or need to go to a bank.

What can be paid for?

• taxi rides and delivery services;
• hotels and airline tickets;
• cafés and restaurants;
• retail outlets and shopping centers;
• admission to museums and various events;
• orders placed with Russian online retailers and marketplaces.

How can you use it?

Create your account before traveling while you are in your country of residence. To complete the registration:

• upload a scan of your passport;
• take a photo of yourself;
• go through a fast identity verification procedure. Your personal details is recognized 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 supported international payment service before traveling to Russia.

Pay for your purchases:

• Offline: use your phone to scan the QR code at the checkout. A connection to the internet via Wi-Fi or a mobile network must be available.
• Online: pay for orders in e-commerce stores and make hotel reservations and buy tickets straight from the mobile app.

Why is the service so useful?

PayInRussia has been created specifically for international tourists:

• you are not required to be a resident of the Russian Federation;
• you do not need to open an account with a Russian bank;
• you can avoid visiting banks or foreign exchange offices;
• you can register and top up your balance before your trip;
• you can easily pay for purchases using your smartphone;
• the service is convenient for both short and extended trips.

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

1. Get the mobile app on your mobile phone.
2. Add money to your balance using a bank card issued abroad.
3. Pay for purchases in Russia: open the app, select the QR code symbol, and scan the code at the checkout. The money will be debited from your account right away.