How foreigners can obtain a Russian bank card in 2025

1. Which banks issue cards for foreigners?

Many large banks offer such services. The most popular are ‘Sberbank’, ‘VTB’, ‘Alfa-Bank’ and ‘Gazprombank’. They have branches in many Russian cities, in which you can get a card and top up your account.

2. What are the rates for card service?

Each bank has its own rates and conditions for issuing cards. Let's consider the most popular ones:

‘Sberbank’ is the largest bank in Russia. The bank offers to issue either a personalized or instant ‘MIR’ debit card (the difference is that the instant card will not have your name on it). Issuance in both cases is free, but a personalized card is made within 2-3 days (you can send an application in advance). If you spend more than 5,000 rubles (approx. $60) per month, the card service will be free. Card users can connect to the ‘Spasibo’ bonus program and receive cashback on selected categories of goods (more details here in English).

‘YooMoney’: a subsidiary of ‘Sberbank’. It offers a free virtual debit ‘MIR’ card. To do this, you need to register here (English is available).

A physical instant card can also be issued at Sheremetyevo Airport. You can top up your balance both online and at ‘Sberbank’ branches. 

‘VTB’ is the second largest bank in the country. It also offers either a non-named instant ‘MIR’ card or a personalized card (issuance takes 1-5 days). You can get the card at any bank branch. The service is free of charge. Find out more here (in Russian).

‘T-bank’ is an online bank and has no physical branches. The application for a card must be filled out online, after which it is then delivered by courier to your home or hotel. You can top up your account via the app and at ATMs. The bank promises 24-hour telephone support in English. If the card has more than 50,000 rubles (~$600), the service will be free, if less – the charge is 90 rubles per month (~$1). 

You can also apply for a ‘T-bank’ card at St. Petersburg’s Pulkovo Airport and receive it immediately. 

3. What documents do you need to apply for a card?

To get a card from a bank, you will need:

- Your passport

- A migration card, which you fill out before entering Russia

- A visa, residence permit or other document that confirms your right to be in the country

If you are just a tourist and do not live in Russia, these documents will be sufficient. You do not need a Russian phone number to apply for a card.

Those who work in Russia will also need a taxpayer identification number (INN). This can be obtained at the nearest ‘My Documents’ multifunctional center (‘MFC’).