What is GitHub Copilot
GitHub Copilot is an AI-powered coding assistant developed by GitHub in partnership with OpenAI. It integrates into code editors (VS Code, JetBrains IDEs, Neovim) and helps you write, complete, and explain code. Pricing: $10/month or $100/year for individual users. A free limited plan is also available.
Since 2022, paying for GitHub Copilot with a Russian card has been impossible — GitHub uses Stripe, which does not support Russian cards.
Why Russian Cards Don't Work
- Stripe, used by GitHub for payment processing, does not accept Russian Visa/Mastercard cards.
- GitHub, as a Microsoft subsidiary, complies with sanctions requirements.
- Russian Mir cards have no international support.
- Prepaid cards are frequently declined by Stripe's anti-fraud system.
Step-by-Step Guide
Step 1. Get a virtual card Obtain a Visa or Mastercard virtual card issued outside Russia, with a foreign billing address and "debit" classification.
Step 2. Top up the card For a monthly subscription, $10–15 is sufficient (with a buffer for conversion). For annual, $100–110.
Step 3. Set up your GitHub account Make sure your GitHub profile doesn't have Russian details. Use a neutral email and don't list Russia as your country.
Step 4. Go to the Copilot page Navigate to github.com/settings/copilot and click "Start free trial" or "Subscribe to Copilot."
Step 5. Enter card details Select the Individual plan, click Continue, enter your card details and the billing address from your issuer. Enable a VPN set to the card's country if needed.
Step 6. Confirm and activate After a successful payment, Copilot will be activated in your account. Install the extension in your IDE from the marketplace.
Tips
- The free GitHub Copilot plan allows up to 2,000 code completions per month — enough for light use.
- Students can get free Copilot access through the GitHub Student Developer Pack.
- Keep your card details secure — GitHub automatically charges on the renewal date.
FAQ
Is there a free version of GitHub Copilot? Yes. GitHub Copilot Free includes 2,000 completions and 50 chat requests per month at no cost.
Can I pay through the GitHub Marketplace? No, Copilot billing happens directly through GitHub Billing, not through the Marketplace.
What if GitHub blocked my account due to my country? Contact GitHub Support. In some cases, accounts can be unblocked by providing additional information.