Internet and calls are essential. Choose the right path depending on your length of stay: Tourist vs. Resident.
Since 2025, the rules for obtaining a SIM card have become stricter. Tourists can buy limited SIMs easily, while residents must link their number to their digital profile (Gosuslugi) for permanent access.
If visiting for <90 days, buy a "Tourist SIM" at major airports
(Sheremetyevo, Domodedovo, Pulkovo) or flagship stores.
Requires: Original Passport + Visa/Migration Card. Hard expiry date often
tied to visa.
For those living in Russia. You MUST register your SIM to your verified
Gosuslugi profile.
Steps: 1. Translate Passport. 2. Get SNILS. 3. Register Gosuslugi. 4.
Biometrics (Bank). 5. Link SIM.
Expect to provide a face scan and voice sample when buying a SIM, especially at airports. This is a new security requirement.
Staff will usually install the SIM for you. Check internet connectivity (switch off Wi-Fi) before leaving the counter.
Ensure your phone's IMEI is not blacklisted. Generally, foreign phones work fine, but strict white-listing is being piloted.
Coverage is excellent in big cities and along major highways. MTS and Megafon generally have the best national coverage.
Domestic roaming is abolished, but Crimea may be an exception with some providers. Check specific terms.
Some Western websites (Instagram, Facebook, X/Twitter, LinkedIn) are blocked. You may need a VPN for access.
Top up balance via banking apps (Sberbank, Tinkoff) or payment terminals in supermarkets ("Qiwi", etc.).
| Package | Cost (approx.) |
|---|---|
| Basic (5-10 GB) | 400 – 600 RUB |
| Standard (20-30 GB) | 600 – 900 RUB |
| Unlimited (premium) | 1000 – 1500 RUB |
| Item | Cost |
|---|---|
| SIM Card Issue Fee | 50 – 300 RUB |
| Tourist Starter Pack | 1000 – 2000 RUB |
| eSIM Setup | Free / Included |
For short trips, consider buying an international eSIM (like Airalo or Yesim) BEFORE arrival to have internet immediately upon landing.
Keep the plastic card holder with PIN and PUK codes. You might need the PUK if you restart your phone.
Telegram is the main messenger in Russia. Install it to communicate with locals, businesses, and even government support.
Yes, if roaming is active. But it is extremely expensive (often 10€/MB). Turn off data roaming before landing!
No. SIM cards are strictly personal and linked to the passport of the purchaser.
It is the central "State Services" portal. It is essential for long-term residents to manage taxes, visas, and SIM cards.
Yes, free WiFi is available in the Metro, cafes, and parks. You usually need a Russian number to receive an SMS code to log in.