Updated 2026

Russian SIM Card

New rules since September 2024: Gosuslugi and biometrics are now mandatory. What this means for you.

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⚠ Important Change

Since September 1, 2024, all buyers of a Russian SIM card absolutely require:

For tourists with short stays, this is practically impossible. Please urgently check the alternatives (roaming, international SIM).

The Basics

What is Gosuslugi?

Gosuslugi (Госуслуги) is the state Russian portal for citizen services. Comparable to the German citizen portal, but with more extensive data linking.

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Passport

Your foreign passport is recorded in the system. No passport, no registration.

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Phone Number

A chicken-and-egg problem: For registration you already need a Russian number.

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Verification

Verification takes place via a state authority or Sberbank.

Biometric Capture

Facial Recognition Becomes Mandatory

Biometric registration has been mandatory since September 2024. Your facial data is stored in a state database and linked to your phone number.

Where is biometrics captured?

  • Multifunctional Centers (MFC)
  • Russian Post offices
  • Some banks (e.g., Sberbank)
  • Selected mobile shops (rare)

What you need to bring

  • Valid Passport
  • Gosuslugi Account (confirmed)
  • Personal Presence
  • Time (waiting times can be long)

Data Protection Note

The biometric data is stored in the state EDB Biometrics database (Единая биометрическая система). As a foreigner, you theoretically have a right to deletion when leaving the country, but practical implementation is difficult.

For Tourists

Better Alternatives

For most visitors, the official route is too cumbersome. Here are more practical solutions:

🌎 Roaming

Activate roaming with your home provider. The easiest solution for short stays.

No Registration Ready Immediately No Biometrics Expensive (1-2 EUR/MB) Limited Data

📱 International SIM

Order online before the trip. Providers like Airalo, Holafly or DrimSim.

No Biometrics in Russia Registered Online Ready Before Departure More Expensive than Local SIM Often Data Only

👤 Use Friends

Use a friend's SIM or use as hotspot.

Fully Functional Local Russian Number No Own Process Dependent on Others Legally Gray Area
For Long-term Stay

The Complete Process

If you still need your own Russian SIM card:

Note: The entire process can take 3-7 business days, often longer due to waiting times at MFCs.

The Providers

Russian Mobile Providers

Provider Network Price/Month Data Special Feature
🏆 MTS 4G/5G 400-800 ₽ 10-30 GB Best Coverage
Megafon 4G/5G 350-700 ₽ 15-40 GB Strong City Networks
Beeline 4G 300-600 ₽ 10-25 GB Good App
Tele2 4G 250-500 ₽ 20-50 GB Very Affordable
Frequently Asked Questions

FAQ about SIM Card 2026

Can I as a tourist still buy a Russian SIM card at all?
Yes, but the process is extremely cumbersome. You need a Gosuslugi account and must be biometrically registered. For short-term tourists, roaming or an international SIM is the better choice.
What if I already have an old Russian SIM?
Already registered SIM cards continue to work. The new rules only apply to new registrations.
Are there no exceptions for foreigners?
No, the regulation applies to everyone equally. There is no special rule for tourists.
Can I register Gosuslugi from Germany?
Partially yes. You can register online, but need physical presence in Russia for verification and biometrics.

Still Have Questions?

The SIM card process has changed significantly. We help you make the right decision.

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