Cards issued by foreign banks do not work in Russia. Once you cross the border, the convenience you are used to becomes inaccessible: you are unable to conveniently purchase a cup of coffee, book a taxi, or purchase a ticket to a museum. You are forced to look for a currency exchange bureau, keep cash on hand, and limit spontaneous purchases.
The answer to this problem is PayInRussia. The platform enables visitors from other countries to make payments for products and services in Russia with their mobile phones. https://payinrussia.com You can manage without cash or have to visit a bank.
What can be paid for?
- taxi trips and delivery services;
- accommodation and flight tickets;
- cafes and dining establishments;
- shops 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 get started:
- scan your passport;
- capture a selfie;
- complete a quick identity verification process. Your personal details is processed automatically, and you do not need to receive text messages on a Russian phone number.
Top up your balance using a bank card issued outside Russia or an eligible payment platform operating in a supported country before you arrive in Russia.
Use the service to pay for purchases:
- Offline: use your phone to scan the QR code at the checkout. Internet access via Wi-Fi or a mobile network must be available.
- Online: make purchases from online shops and reserve accommodation and purchase tickets straight from the mobile app.
Why is it convenient?
PayInRussia has been created with overseas visitors in mind:
- you do not need to be a resident of the Russian Federation;
- you are not required to open an account with a Russian bank;
- you are not required to go to bank offices or currency exchange bureaus;
- you can register and top up your balance in advance of your journey;
- you can easily pay for purchases with your mobile phone;
- the service is convenient for both brief and long-term journeys.
How do you get started? Get started in three easy steps:
- Install the application on your smartphone.
- Top up your balance using an international bank card.
- Make payments for goods and services in Russia: open the app, press the QR payment icon, and use your camera to scan the code at the payment terminal. The money will be debited from your account right away.