How to Get a Russian SIM Card?

New security regulations have made getting a Russian SIM card by a foreign visitor increasingly difficult. We have prepared a step-by-step instruction on how to buy a SIM card in Russia in 2025. If you already have a Russian SIM card, you still need to complete the steps below before 1 July 2025 to keep your SIM active.

Step 1. Get a social security number (SNILS)

To get a Russian social security number, you need to visit a branch of the Social Fund or a Public Service Center (MFC). If you apply to the Social Fund, the social security number will be issued the same day.
Required paperwork: passport, its notarized translation (you can get it from any translation office).

Step 2. Get a verified account at public services website (Gosuslugi)

Visit a Public Service Center (MFC). They will set up your verified account at Gosuslugi website. To log in, you will need a phone number. Before you have your own SIM card, you may temporarily use your Russian friend’s phone number or contact us for support.
Required paperwork: passport, its notarized translation, social security number.

Step 3. Pass a biometric verification

You can pass a biometric verification in Sberbank and some other banks. They will take your picture and record your voice. Your biometric verification will be added to your profile on Gosuslugi website.
Required paperwork: passport, its notarized translation, social security number, verified account at Gosuslugi website. 

Step 4. Get your SIM card

Visit any mobile operator office and get your SIM card.
Required paperwork: passport, its notarized translation, social security number, biometric verification date uploaded to your profile at Gosuslugi website.

What Russian mobile operator is the best?

There are five major mobile operators in Russia. They all offer competitive rates and good coverage, so in most cases you can choose any operator from the Big Five:
MTS
Megafon
Beeline
Tele2
T-Mobile
Special offer! Order your SIM card from T-Mobile following our referral link, top up the balance for no less than 500 Rubles and get 500 Rubles more on your balance!

Can I get a Russian SIM card online?

Though you can check the rates and pre-order a SIM card online, you will still need to visit the office to set up an account and collect the SIM card. T-Mobile operator doesn't have offices and will deliver a SIM card with the courier to your address.  

How to top up the balance?

There are four ways to top up the balance of your Russian SIM card:
  • Online in your banking app
  • Online in your mobile operator app
  • By cash in a mobile operator office
  • By cash or Russian bank card in a top up terminal (available in malls and other public places).   

Are there any alternatives to buying a Russian SIM card?

If you come to Russia just for a few days, you can do without a local SIM card. You may consider purchasing a global SIM card working in Russia, rely on free WiFi or borrow a SIM card from your Russian friends.
However, if you plan to stay in Russia for a long time or visit it in future, the best solution is to take 1-2 days to complete the steps above and get your Russian SIM card. Moreover, if you plan to immigrate to Russia, you will need a social security number and a verified account at Gosuslugi website anyway. 
Russian SIM card assistance
We offer:
- Remote guidance on passing all the procedures required for getting a Russian SIM card including advice on the paperwork and sharing locations of the offices you will need to visit;
- Assistance with communicating in the Social Fund, Public Service Center, bank and mobile operator office (remotely);
- A temporary phone number to set up an account with Gosuslugi website before you have your own SIM card.
Cost: $99
Order
Immigration assistance
We offer:
- Full legal support with your residency application;
- Translating and notarizing the application paperwork;
- Filling in the application forms;
- Guiding through the whole immigration process.
Cost: From $399
Order