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How to Buy a SIM Card in Russia as a Foreigner in 2025

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Russian SIM card, SIM card abroad, travel to Russia

How to Buy a SIM Card in Russia as a Foreigner in 2025

24 February 2025

Due to an increase in fraud cases involving phone numbers and messaging apps, purchasing a SIM card in Russia has become more complicated for foreigners. If you are visiting for a short time, using international roaming or an eSIM from your home provider might be a more practical solution. However, if you plan to stay longer and need a local Russian SIM card, follow this guide.

Step-by-Step Guide to Getting a SIM Card in Russia

1. Get a Notarized Translation of Your Passport

Before you can apply for any official documents, you must have a notarized translation of your passport into Russian.

Visit a translation bureau or a notary office.
Ensure that all passport pages containing personal details and visas are translated and certified.

2. Apply for SNILS (Russian Social Security Number)

A SNILS (СНИЛС) is required for various government services, including SIM card registration.

Apply at the Social Fund of Russia (Социальный фонд России) or an MFC (Multifunctional Center “Мои документы”).
You will receive an SNILS number on the spot.

3. Register on the State Services Portal (Госуслуги)

The Russian State Services Portal (Gosuslugi) is necessary for activating your SIM card.

Visit an MFC or a bank (such as Sberbank or VTB) to verify your identity.
Bring your passport, notarized translation, and SNILS.
You’ll need a Russian phone number for registration, so ask the staff for temporary solutions.
Verification takes up to a few days.

Gosuslugi

4. Submit Your Biometrics

Go to a bank (Sberbank or VTB) or an MFC to get your biometric data collected.
Bring your passport, notarized translation, and SNILS.
Your biometric profile will be registered in the Unified Biometric System on the same day.

5. Apply for a SIM Card at a Mobile Operator’s Store

Once you have SNILS, a verified Gosuslugi account, and registered biometrics, you can buy a SIM card.

Visit a mobile operator’s official store (e.g., MTS, Beeline, MegaFon, Tele2).
Bring your passport and notarized translation.
Provide the IMEI (serial number) of the device where you’ll use the SIM.
The staff will verify your identity using biometric data.

6. Activate Your SIM Card via Госуслуги

For activation, you must log in to your Gosuslugi account and confirm the registration.

Some operators allow in-store activation with the help of the staff.
The SIM card will only work after biometric verification.

Alternative Solutions for Tourists

If you are in Russia for a short visit, consider these options:

Roaming: Check if your home provider has affordable roaming plans for Russia.
Wi-Fi & Messaging Apps: Many places (as well as our schools) offer free Wi-Fi, and apps like WhatsApp and Telegram work without a Russian SIM.

Buying a SIM card in Russia as a foreigner now requires several bureaucratic steps. The process can take a few days, so plan ahead. If you need assistance, our team at Liden & Denz can help you navigate the registration process.

Would you like more personalised help? Contact us or visit one of our offices in Russia!