Payment Methods in Russia

Cash is the Key

Due to international sanctions, Visa and Mastercard issued outside Russia no longer work. Your preparation is therefore crucial for a smooth stay. Don't rely on habit.

💳

Mir (Local)

Only card option

💵

EUR / USD

Bring cash

🛂

10,000 USD

Declaration limit

⏱️

30 Min

Planning time

Procedure

Prepare Finances Safely

1

Check Card Reality

Accept that your usual cards are worthless in Russia. No paying in stores, no cash withdrawal at ATMs. Plan completely without them.

2

Plan Cash Sensibly

Calculate your budget for the entire stay. Add up hotel, food, transport and souvenirs and add a reserve.

3

Prepare Clean Bills

Bring Euros or US Dollars. Important: The banknotes must be immaculate. No tears, no stamps, no folds. Damaged bills are often rejected.

4

Plan Exchange

Exchange money only on site in Russia. Banks offer better rates than exchange offices at the airport. Rates fluctuate, stay informed.

5

Know Declaration Limits

Up to an equivalent of 10,000 USD (approx. 9,000 EUR) per person can be imported without declaration. Everything above must be declared at customs (Red).

6

Create Backup Strategy

Don't put everything on one card (or currency). A mix of Euros and Dollars can provide flexibility. Note down bank addresses.

Checklist

What belongs in hand luggage

✓ Cash in EUR or USD (sufficient)
✓ Undamaged, new banknotes
✓ Budget reserve (approx. 20%)
✓ Hotel and tickets prepaid (if possible)
✓ Digital notes of bank addresses
✓ Emergency plan for exchange

Important Notes

No West Cards

Visa, Mastercard, Amex don't work in Russia. Apple Pay and Google Pay are also deactivated.

Exchange Officially

Only exchange money in banks or licensed exchange offices. Avoid street offers.

Security

Distribute your cash across different pockets or luggage pieces. Use the hotel safe on site.

Online in Advance

Try to book hotels and flights before departure via platforms that still accept your card.

Budget Planning

Typical Expenses

Item	Cost (approx.)
Metro / Bus Ticket	from 60 RUB
Taxi Ride (City)	from 300 RUB
Lunch (Business Lunch)	from 500 RUB
Museum Entry	from 600 RUB

Fees & Exchange

Type	Note
Exchange Rate Spread	approx. 2-5% difference
Bank Fees	possible when exchanging
ATM Usage	Only with Mir card
Hotel Deposit	Plan cash

Frequently Asked Questions

Do foreign cards not work at all?

No. Cards issued outside Russia work neither at terminals nor at ATMs.

How much cash should I bring?

That depends on your style. Plan generously since you have no access to your account. 50-100 EUR per day excl. hotel is a guideline.

Can I pay with UnionPay?

Theoretically yes, practically unreliable. Many Western banks block Russia, and many Russian terminals only accept local cards.

Where is the best place to exchange money?

At bank branches in the city. Airports often have worse rates. Passport is required for exchange.

Do I have to declare cash?

Yes, if you (and your family) carry more than 10,000 USD (equivalent in all currencies) total. Use the red corridor.

Travel Worry-Free

With proper preparation, you enjoy your stay without financial stress.

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