Guide
Getting a Russian bank card
Visa and Mastercard cards issued abroad do not work in Russia, so a Russian bank card is essential for daily life and for receiving a salary or stipend.
Not an official government website. MigraForma is a private reference service.
What banks usually ask for
- passport and a notarised Russian translation;
- migration card;
- registration slip;
- visa, work permit or student documents;
- a Russian taxpayer number (INN) — at some banks.
Why banks may refuse
Banks check clients under anti-money-laundering rules and decide for themselves. Common reasons: expired registration, name spelled differently across documents, no passport translation. Requirements vary, so check the list before visiting.
Tip
Many universities have partner banks that open accounts for students on campus — ask your international office.
Related pages
Frequently asked questions
Will my Indian Visa or Mastercard work?
No, cards issued abroad on these networks do not work in Russia; plan to open a Russian account.
Do I need an INN?
Not always, but it helps.
Can I open an account online?
Foreigners usually need to visit a branch.
For reference only. MigraForma is a private service, not an official government website: we are not the Russian Ministry of Internal Affairs (MVD), a multifunctional centre (MFC) or Gosuslugi, we do not submit documents and this is not legal advice. Rules change, so check them with the migration authorities before you apply. Information checked in October 2026.