Here you will find important tips and useful information for Russia.
in Swiss francs (CHF)
For ATM cash withdrawals
For cashless payments in shops, restaurants, hotels, and online
in local currency
For minor expenses on arrival in country of destination
Local currency / ISO Code
Russian ruble RUB
Payment by credit card is relatively common. For more detailed information, please contact the credit card issuer.
Credit cards are recommended for car rentals. Prepaid cards are generally accepted for payment but not for reservations. Please check the possible payment methods with the car rental company in advance.
Keep exchange and transaction receipts.
For reasons of safety, it is advisable not to exchange cash over the amount needed immediately.
Currency exchange or purchase on black market punishable by law.
Money is to be exchanged only at official points such as banks and exchange offices.
+ 1 h (Kaliningrad); + 3 h (Moscow, St. Petersburg); + 3-12 h (extreme east of the country)
Official language
Russian
Language capabilities
English and German
Moscow (Moskwa)
8 (wait for dialing tone) 10 41 (disregard '0' preceding Swiss area codes)
220 volt / adapter required for 3-pronged plug
Passport still valid 6 months or more after end of stay with visa.
The tourists cards given with the entry are essential to leave the country.
Find out in advance about the documents necessary to obtain a visa.
Travellers who want to visit one or several CEI States must request a visa for everyone of them (transit passengers also).
Tourists must register with police upon arrival. These formalities are settled by the hotel for package travel.
Exit permit required. In general, the permit is issued together with the entry visa (if not, it has to be obtained at least 2 days before departure at one of the Intourist agencies on site).
Health insurance protection valid in Russia strongly recommended.
Moskau, Serpov Pereulok 6
Tel. +7 495 258 38 30
Banks
9.30 - 19.00/21.00 h (Mon - Fri)
Stores
8.00/9.00 - 19.00/20.00 h (Mon - Sat)
Swiss driver's licence (possibly with Russian translation) in principle accepted. International driver's licence recommended, because it is more easily understandable for car rental services and authorities.
Minimum age for car rentals: 23 to 25 (varies by company).
CH sticker, first-aid kit, bright signal jacket, fire extinguisher and breakdown triangle mandatory.
Blood alcohol limit: 0.0 ‰.
Do not drink tap water.
Vaccination against diphtheria, tetanus, hepatitis A, polio and measles recommended.
Travelers are advised to carry with them their passport or a photocopy thereof (must include page with visa).
Security
Travelers who wish to travel to this country are advised to inquire about current traveler safety prior to departure.
Malgrado l'aumento delle misure di sicurezza esiste sempre il rischio di attacchi terroristici.
Avoid demonstrations and large crowds.
Beware of purse snatching, pick pocketing and auto break-ins.
Avoid nighttime driving.
Special legal regulations
Photographing military installations and public buildings (airports, bridges etc.) is prohibited.
Very strict laws to fight illegal drugs.
Travel is the secure prepaid card for use away from home – without any annual fees. In the event of loss, the card including the balance will be replaced worldwide.
Find out more about TravelWhile every precaution has been taken to verify the information provided, Swiss Bankers Prepaid Services Ltd does not guarantee the accuracy or completeness of Country Information. Swiss Bankers therefore shall not be held liable for any damage or loss sustained in connection with any errors or omissions contained therein.