The State of International Payments from Russia in 2026
Since 2022, international payment routes from Russia have changed significantly. Several major Russian banks have been disconnected from SWIFT, and Western payment networks (Visa/Mastercard) no longer process international transactions for Russian-issued cards. Nevertheless, a number of legal routes continue to operate.
Working Methods for Paying Foreign Invoices
1. SWIFT via Non-Sanctioned Banks
Some Russian banks have retained SWIFT channels: Gazprombank (partially), regional and smaller banks. Payments can be routed to neutral countries — Turkey, UAE, India, China.
2. Payment via a Foreign Account
If you hold an account at a foreign bank (Armenia, Kazakhstan, Georgia, UAE) — initiate the payment from there. This is the most reliable route.
3. Payment via a CIS Legal Entity
A Russian company transfers funds to a related company in Kazakhstan, Armenia, or Kyrgyzstan, which then pays the foreign supplier.
4. Cryptocurrency (USDT/BTC)
The foreign counterparty accepts payment in USDT or BTC. For Russian senders, this is one of the most accessible methods. Currency risk and tax implications need to be considered.
5. UnionPay
Russian banks issuing UnionPay cards enable payments where the network is accepted (China, UAE, parts of Europe).
6. Direct Settlement Systems
Mir and SPFS (the CIS equivalent of SWIFT) operate within a limited set of countries. Applicable for international payments when a counterparty is located in a supported country.
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Ask the recipient which countries and methods they can accept payment from.
- Check the SWIFT status of your bank — is the channel open for the required destination country?
- Consider opening an account in the CIS — Armenia, Kazakhstan, and Georgia remain accessible for Russians.
- Agree on the currency and method with the recipient (EUR/USD/USDT/CNY).
- Prepare documents — invoice, contract, and if required, a transaction passport.
- Execute the payment via the chosen route and keep all confirmation records.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is it legal to pay via a third country?
Yes, as long as Russian currency regulations and the transit country's sanctions laws are not violated. Payments through friendly jurisdictions (UAE, Kazakhstan, Armenia) are fully legal.
Is a transaction passport required to pay a foreign invoice?
A transaction passport is required for contracts exceeding 6 million rubles (equivalent). It is not required for small one-off payments.
What if the bank refuses the transfer?
Try another bank with an active SWIFT channel. Alternatively, consider paying via a foreign account or through a partner in a friendly jurisdiction.
Marix specializes in organizing international payments for Russian companies and individuals through verified working routes.