- From January 1, foreigners can only obtain SIM cards after completing biometric registration
- Maximum of 10 mobile numbers allowed per individual
- Registration requires: SNILS, verified Gosuslugi account, biometrics, and phone IMEI
Service restriction timeline:
- Inactive numbers (no usage for 3+ months) will be blocked immediately
- Active numbers will face phased restrictions:
- International calls and mobile data will be disabled first
- Complete service termination after 30 days
How to maintain service:
- Check registered SIM cards in the "Mobile Numbers" section on Gosuslugi
- Cancel excess numbers if exceeding the 10-SIM lim it
- Complete biometric registration at any UBS partner location (available at major banks)
Simplified entry procedure:
- Pre-register via ruID app before arrival
- Digital profile with SNILS and Gosuslugi account created at border
- Single bank visit required for biometric verification
Current statistics:
Over 2 million foreign nationals have already completed registration. Major banks (Sberbank, VTB) offer bundled services: SNILS issuance, Gosuslugi verification and biometric registration in one visit.
These measures aim to reduce anonymous SIM card usage and prevent fraudulent activities.
Frequently asked questions
What are the new SIM card rules for foreigners in Russia?
From January 2025, foreigners must complete UBS biometric registration, obtain SNILS, verify their Gosuslugi account, and provide phone IMEI to get a SIM card.
What happens without biometric registration?
Starting July 1, 2025, service will be gradually restricted (international calls/data first), with complete disconnection after 30 days.
How can foreigners get a Russian SIM card in 2025?
Requires SNILS, verified Gosuslugi account, UBS biometrics, and phone IMEI. Maximum 10 SIMs per person.
Can biometric registration be completed in advance?
Yes, via ruID app before entering Russia, with final biometric verification at a bank.
How many SIM cards can a foreigner have?
Maximum 10 per person. Check registered numbers in the "Mobile Numbers" section on Gosuslugi.
How to check if my SIM will be disconnected?
If you haven't completed UBS biometric registration by July 1, 2025, your service will be terminated. Check status on Gosuslugi.
Which banks assist with biometric registration?
Major banks (Sberbank, VTB) offer complete packages: SNILS, Gosuslugi verification and biometrics in one visit.
What if my SIM is already blocked?
Visit a mobile provider's store, complete biometric identification, and renew your contract.
Why is IMEI required?
This anti-fraud measure helps combat anonymous SIM card usage.
How quickly will service be disconnected?
Inactive numbers (3+ months) blocked immediately. Active numbers restricted in two phases: calls/data first, then complete disconnection after 30 days.
Photo source: https://ru.123rf.com/
For more information, please contact the consultants of the Confidence Group company.
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