Local "Hacks": What Payment Methods Are Available to Russians Abroad

Russians abroad usually have to use cash. However, in popular tourist regions, there are other payment methods that can make a traveler's life easier. Sometimes, you don't even need to go through complicated bureaucratic procedures for this.

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How to Pay Abroad?

Visa and Mastercard international payment system cards issued by Russian banks have stopped working abroad. Unlike them, the "Mir" card continues to accept payments in some countries. Over the past few years, the geography of its use has expanded. Now "Mir" is accepted in Venezuela, Cuba, and Vietnam.

Opening an account with a foreign bank can be difficult. Usually, they require a contract with a local employer, confirmation of tax residency, or a permanent address in the country.

Some banks offer Russians the opportunity to open cards for everyday needs without unnecessary formalities. However, the functionality and geography of such cards will be limited. For example, in the United Arab Emirates and Serbia, you can apply for so-called prepaid cards. With their help, you can make purchases in the country, and replenish your account in cash at a bank branch.

You can pay for purchases abroad using a QR code. Some large Russian banks have integrated this function into their applications, in particular, for trips to Turkey. However, before the trip, it is better to clarify exactly how the service works.

Local "Hacks"

In some countries, in addition to cash and bank cards, there are services for making payments through registration by phone number. To do this, it is enough to purchase a SIM card from a local operator. Such services are available in Azerbaijan, Argentina, Armenia, Georgia, Indonesia, and other countries. However, their functionality without a local bank card is usually limited. For example, you can pay for parking or some government fees.

In China, if you have a local SIM card, you can pay for goods using a QR code through popular services WeChat Pay or Alipay. However, you cannot top them up with a Russian bank card. You can only pay after someone transfers money to your virtual wallet. In addition, many such services require a "guarantor." You can register only by receiving a link from a person who already has the application installed.

A more convenient way is plastic wallets: debit cards for paying for small purchases and public transport. For example, the Japanese Suica and the Korean Wowpass. These cards are designed not only for locals, but also for tourists. It is enough to buy a card at a kiosk and top it up there.

Cash is Still Needed

Despite everything that has been said, cash remains a reliable assistant for Russians abroad.

Any electronic means of payment today depend on the decisions of third parties — banks, payment systems, or services that can unilaterally restrict access to funds without warning. This is especially true in the context of geopolitical instability and sanctions pressure, when service rules can change at any moment.

Roman Gareev, Head of the Department of Hotel and Tourism Management at the Plekhanov Russian University of Economics

Cash does not depend on technical problems or blockages. But it is important to find out in advance which currency is popular in the country. In some places, it may not be easy to exchange rubles. Dollars and euros are accepted almost everywhere, but sometimes it is better to use the local currency.