In Russia, individuals identified as Kazakhstani nationals will be required to verify their identity when obtaining a SIM card.
In Russia, travelers and residents hailing from Kazakhstan or planning a trip should take note of several changes in bank cards, money transfers, and mobile connectivity. These updates have been underscored by the Embassy of Kazakhstan in Russia, according to a report by Liter.kz.
Bank Cards and Payments
Foreign-issued debit and credit cards, including those from the US, Europe, Australia, and the global market, are no longer functional in Russia due to financial sanctions and disconnection from international payment systems. Instead, foreigners in Russia are expected to use locally issued cards or accounts for electronic payments and ATM withdrawals as foreign cards are completely blocked. Additionally, the Russia-operated national payment system "MIR" can be used with cards issued by Kazakh VTB Bank; UnionPay (Chinese) system cards are also acceptable.
Online Payment Platforms
Popular international platforms like PayPal, Venmo, and others are generally unavailable or blocked in Russia.
Money Transfers
Transferring money from Kazakhstan to Russia can be achieved through money transfer systems (such as Western Union, Golden Crown, MoneyGram, Unistream, Kalibri) or by sending money to a bank account in Kazakhstan and later withdrawing it from an ATM in Russia, which are widely available in populated areas.
SIM Card Registration
Starting January 1, 2025, foreigners—including Kazakhs—are required to undergo biometric verification (face and fingerprint scan) to obtain a Russian SIM card. Those who already possess a SIM card issued before this date must re-register it with biometrics by July 1, 2025, or it will be blocked. One individual can register up to 10 SIM cards (including work ones). These rules do not apply to diplomats and international organization staff.
Upcoming changes underline the necessity for foreigners—particularly those from Kazakhstan—to be informed about revised payment methods, money transfers, and mobile connectivity in Russia. As the situation continues to evolve, travelers and residents should closely monitor updates and adjust their financial strategies accordingly.
It is essential for travelers and residents from Kazakhstan to adapt to changes in payment methods, as foreign-issued debit and credit cards may no longer function in Russia due to financial sanctions. Instead, using locally issued cards or accounts, or Russian payment systems like "MIR" and UnionPay, might become necessary for electronic payments and ATM withdrawals.
Furthermore, popular international online payment platforms like PayPal, Venmo, and others may be unavailable or blocked in Russia, making it necessary to explore alternative money transfer systems such as Western Union, Golden Crown, MoneyGram, Unistream, Kalibri or transferring money to a bank account and withdrawing it from an ATM in Russia.
