Visual cards

Get connected

Do not assume you can buy a SIM instantly. Check the route for your status first, then decide whether to use Wi-Fi, roaming, eSIM fallback, or an in-person operator visit.

Handle money

Do not rely on a foreign Visa or Mastercard without checking. Choose a payment fallback for transport, food, and hotel needs before you are stuck at checkout.

Register your stay

Do not guess who is responsible. Confirm whether your hotel, host, landlord, university, or employer will submit the arrival notice for migration registration (миграционный учёт).

Get oriented

Set up the boring basics: maps, transport, translation, emergency numbers, and official download pages. It is much easier before you lose signal or battery.

Buy a SIM card

Prepare your documents, visit an official mobile store, complete identification, and activate the number.

1. 1Prepare documentsPassport, SNILS, and verified Gosuslugi account.
2. 2Visit an official storeUse only lawful operator retail channels.
3. 3Complete verificationFollow the required identification process.
4. 4Activate the SIMTest calls, SMS, and mobile internet before leaving.

SIM card checklist

Prepare these items before visiting a mobile store.

1. Valid foreign passport
2. SNILS
3. Verified Gosuslugi account
4. Migration registration document
5. Notarized passport translation
6. Cash for payment

Open a bank account

Prepare identity documents, complete bank verification, and receive a Russian card or approved account.

1. 1Prepare documentsPassport, translation, registration, and INN if available.
2. 2Contact the bankUse official channels and avoid unofficial intermediaries.
3. 3Complete verificationThe bank checks identity and eligibility.
4. 4Receive your cardUse only products issued in your own name.

Payment path

Use the safest payment setup after your documents and bank verification are ready.

1. 1DocumentsPassport, translation, registration, and INN if available.
2. 2VerificationThe bank checks identity and eligibility before opening access.
3. 3Card or accountUse only approved products issued in your name.

Use public transport

Buy a local transport card, top it up, and use trusted navigation apps for metro, buses, and trams.

1. 1Buy a transport cardMetro ticket offices sell local cards without passport checks.
2. 2Top up the balanceUse cash, a machine, or a supported Russian payment method.
3. 3Tap in carefullyHold the card to the reader and check the turnstile signal.
4. 4Plan routes in an appUse a reliable map app before you start moving.

Essential apps

Install the tools you will actually need for maps, taxis, translation, messaging, and payments.

INN tax number

Prepare the basic documents before applying for a Russian taxpayer identification number.

1. Valid passport
2. Notarized translation if requested
3. Migration registration
4. Application form
5. Contact phone or email

Medical insurance

Choose a policy that matches your stay, check dates and coverage, and keep the policy details accessible.

1. 1Check your requirementYour visa, work, or study status may affect the policy type.
2. 2Compare coverage datesThe policy should cover the full needed period.
3. 3Use a reliable providerAvoid unofficial intermediaries and unclear terms.
4. 4Save policy detailsKeep the number and support contacts available.

Emergency safety basics

Keep contacts, address, documents, and a safe route ready before you need them.

1. 1Save key contactsKeep embassy, host, and support contacts offline.
2. 2Know your addressStore it in Russian and in your own language.
3. 3Keep documents privateShare copies only with trusted official channels.
4. 4Choose a safe routeUse public places and reliable transport options.

Rental safety

Check the basics before paying or sending documents for a flat.

Registration checklist

Prepare the items to discuss with your host or official service channel.

1. Passport
2. Migration card
3. Visa or entry basis
4. Host or accommodation details
5. Arrival date
6. Stay address

Work permit path

Check eligibility, documents, timing, and official channels before you start work.

1. 1Check your statusYour citizenship and entry basis affect the path.
2. 2Prepare documentsUse only lawful documents and official channels.
3. 3Confirm deadlinesTiming can affect whether the path is available.
4. 4Keep proofSave receipts, applications, and official notices.

Moscow arrival

Get oriented, choose a reliable transport path, and save your first address.

• Airport or station route
• Metro or official taxi
• Address saved offline

St Petersburg arrival

Confirm the route, weather layer, and first transport choice before leaving the terminal.

• Address confirmed
• Trusted transport
• Documents kept private

Kazan arrival

Keep the first day simple: route, address, connection, and the next practical task.

• Offline route
• Official services
• Next task selected

SIM path result

Use official operator channels and follow identity checks for your situation.

1. 1AssumptionThe SIM should be registered in your own name.
2. 2Next stepReview the guide before visiting an operator store.
3. 3Risk noteAvoid offers that bypass identity checks.

Payment path result

Choose only payment options opened lawfully in your own name.

1. 1AssumptionYour document status affects available options.
2. 2Next stepCompare official requirements before applying.
3. 3Risk noteAvoid accounts or cards opened by someone else.