Prepaid Russia SIM Cards for Tourists: A-Z Guide

In Russia, it’s now easier to stay connected. Discover how to purchase Russia SIM cards for your trip to this nation.

Purchasing one of the best SIM cards for Russia enables travelers to stay connected during their trip. Travelers can utilize Russia SIM cards to access inexpensive mobile data for apps, directions, and sharing their experiences. The best SIM card options for Russia, where to find them, and how to use them will all be covered in this post.

I. What are the Best Russia SIM cards for Tourists?

Megafon, MTC, Beeline are renowned mobile network providers that provide the best Russia SIM cards for visitors. 

1. Megafon SIM cards

When traveling to Russia, Megafon is one of the major mobile operators which offer several tourist-friendly SIM card packages. Here are some of the best options:

• Hello Bundle: 30GB data, 30 minutes calls, 14 days validity for $11.87.
• Turn On! Look: Unlimited data, 1500 minutes calls, 300 SMS, 30 days validity for $15.84.
• Turn On! Chat: Unlimited data, 500 minutes calls, 100 SMS/day, 30 days validity for $7.92.
• Turn On! Speak: 5GB data, 600 minutes calls, 30 days validity for $7.92.
• Turn On! Have Fun: 15GB data, 100 minutes calls, 30 days validity for $7.13.
• Turn On! Premium: Unlimited data, 5000 minutes calls, unlimited SMS, 30 days validity for $47.49.
• Turn On! Write: 5GB data, 300 minutes calls, 300 SMS, 30 days validity for $6.34.

2. MTC SIM cards

MTC, one of the biggest Russian telecom companies connected to Vodafone, sells SIM cards on-site with plans beginning at 2GB. Here is MTS SIM cards package: 

• MTS Easier: 5 GB data, 250 minutes. Unlimited messengers (WhatsApp, Telegram, Viber, etc.). Price: 650 P/month
• MTS More: 30 GB data, 700 minutes, 700 SMS. Unlimited messengers (WhatsApp, Telegram, Viber, etc.). Price: 850 P/month
• MTS Super: All-inclusive. Unlimited messengers, social networks, and videos. Defender. Price: 1000 P/month

3. Beeline SIM cards

Beeline is one of Russia’s leading telecommunications providers, offering a range of SIM card options for locals and travelers alike. Known for its reliable network coverage across urban and rural areas, Beeline provides flexible plans designed to suit diverse needs, from affordable prepaid packages to more robust monthly plans with data, local calls, and SMS. 

Here below are the data packages: 

• 500 RUB ($7.92) – 20 GB Calls: 400 min, SMS 300, credit Validity 30 days
• 700 RUB ($11.08), unlimited,  600 mins / Calls to numbers of all networks in Russia, except for local city numbers, SMS 300, credit Validity 30 days.
• 900 RUB ($14.25) – Unlimited Distribution, Data: unlimited / Distribution of mobile Internet to other devices, calls: 1300 mins / Calls to Beeline and other operators, SMS: 300, credit Validity: 30 days  

► Recommendation: Purchasing a prepaid physical SIM for visitors from one of the major providers is a great choice if you plan to travel to Russia. With the wide variety of SIM plans available, you can choose one that best meets your unique travel requirements. Get a Russia eSIM if your device is eSIM compatible; it is 100% online download and activated. The sections that follow provide more details on this unique option. 

II. Where to Buy SIM Cards in Russia for Tourists?  

Tourists can get Russia SIM cards in three different ways:

• Online 
• Upon arrival at Russia airports
• In the city center

1. Buy Russia SIM Card Online 

Buying Russia SIM cards online is convenient and is available from many operators. If you are planning your trip ahead of time and would like to have your SIM card ready when you arrive, this can be quite useful. You can purchase physical Russia SIM cards to be delivered to your address.

Pros: When you arrive, spend some time comparing deals and choosing the best one. Saving time and maybe avoiding lines at physical locations are two benefits of buying your Russia SIM card online. 

Cons: Delivery may take longer than expected, particularly if you’re traveling quickly. Activating your SIM card can be challenging in some situations. 

2. Buy SIM card at Russia airports

In Russia, major airports like Moscow’s Sheremetyevo, Domodedovo, and Vnukovo, as well as St. Petersburg’s Pulkovo Airport offer several options for purchasing SIM cards, including Beeline, MTS, and Megafon. 

Pros: Many airport kiosks have English-speaking staff to assist international travelers, which can simplify the purchasing and activation process, buying at the airport allows you to get connected as soon as you arrive. 

Cons: The activation process can sometimes be slow

3. Buy SIM Card in Russia City 

While airport and online options exist, tourists can still purchase a SIM card directly in a Russian city.

Pros:

• Wider Range of Options: You’ll have access to a broader range of plans and deals offered by different providers.
• Personalized Assistance: You can get direct assistance from a store Russian representative to choose the best plan for your needs.
• Potential for Better Deals: Local Russia stores might offer promotions or discounts not available online or at Russia airports.

Cons:

• Time-Consuming: It might take more time to find a store and complete the purchase process.
• Language Barrier: You might encounter language barriers, especially if you don’t speak Russian.
• Limited Availability: Stores might not be open 24/7, especially in smaller cities

You can find the nearest store around by Google Maps. Here are some stores you can refer to:

• Megafon: Red Square, 3, Moscow, Nga, 109012
• MTC: 1-Ya Tverskaya-Yamskaya Ulitsa, 8, Moscow, Nga, 125047
• Beeline: Arbat St, 12с1, Moscow, Nga, 119002

III. How Much is a Tourist Russia SIM Card? 

SIM cards cost between RUB 200 and RUB 500. The price of a prepaid SIM card in Russia varies according to the provider and plan you choose. Data plans typically start around RUB 100 for smaller bundles, with larger data amounts available for a higher fee. 

IV. What types of Russia SIM cards are available for tourists? 

Tourists visiting Russia can generally choose from two types of SIM cards:

• Prepaid SIM Card Russia
• Tourist e-SIM for Russia

Criteria	Prepaid SIM Card Russia	Tourist e-SIM for Russia
Convenience	Requires visiting a store or kiosk to purchase	Can be purchased and activated online
Compatibility	Works with any unlocked phone with a SIM slot	Only compatible with eSIM-capable devices
How to Use	Insert SIM into phone, activate with local provider	Activate by scanning a QR code from provider
Example Plan	10 GB data, local calls, SMS (15-30 days)	5-15 GB data (validity varies by provider)
Price	Typically 500-1,000 RUB	Starts from around $10-15 USD

Note: the price will vary depend on the provider in Russia 

V. Do I Need to Buy a Sim Card for Russia travel? 

Yes, certainly. Buying a SIM card for Russia travel is a reasonable ways for several reasons: 

• Cost-effective Rates: You can avoid expensive roaming fees by using a local SIM card from Russia. Obtain local data, text, and call rates.
• High-speed internet is available in Russia, particularly in cities and popular tourist destinations. For easier map navigation and update sharing, a local SIM card offers superior connectivity.
• Simple to Get: In Russia, obtaining a SIM card is easy. Simply present a photo ID to purchase one at the airport, retail establishments, or phone shops.

VI. What to prepare when buying a SIM card in Russia? 

 In order to purchase a prepaid SIM card in Russia, you should have the following ready:

• Passport: In order to be identified and registered with the Russian mobile network provider, a passport is essential.
• Payment Method: It’s advisable to have both cash and credit cards on hand, even though most establishments take both.
• Unlocked Phone: Verify that your phone is unlocked and compatible with Russian and not Russian network carriers, as stated in the information provided. This guarantees trouble-free use of the SIM card.

VII. Russia eSIM – alternative to Tourist SIM cards

Save time by purchasing a Russia eSIM online. Travelers no longer need to visit a physical store to get a SIM card; you can activate your eSIM instantly from anywhere, even before arriving in Russia. This allows for easy switching between local and international networks without physically changing SIM cards in your phone.

You can find Russia eSIM from various online providers, such as Gigago, one of the most reputable travel eSIM retailers. The Gigago Russia eSIM is priced around $2.50 – $175.90 , with plans starting at $2.50 for 500MB of data valid for one day.

VIII. How long does a tourist SIM card last in Russia? 

A Russia tourist SIM card usually lasts from 1 to 30 days, depending on your chosen plan and provider. Most providers offer flexible options for tourists, with short-term plans for 1, 3, 5, 7, or 10 days, as well as longer plans lasting up to half a month or one month. You can select a plan based on your trip length and data or calling requirements.

IX. How to activate a SIM card in Russia

Activating and using a SIM card or eSIM in Russia is quick and easy: 

1. Using Prepaid Russia tourist SIM Cards

Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to activate a prepaid Russia tourist SIM card:

• Insert SIM Card: Place the SIM card in your phone’s SIM slot.
• Register with ID: Russian regulations require personal registration. Present your passport at the point of purchase (e.g., kiosk or store) to have it registered. This may also involve taking a photo.
• Activation Process: Once registered, the staff will typically help activate the SIM card, or you can do it yourself by dialing an activation code (e.g., *101#) or following instructions from the provider.
• Confirmation: You should receive an SMS confirming activation. At this point, your SIM card is ready to use.

Activation is straightforward but may involve a short wait for ID verification, especially at airports or busy locations. 

2. Setting up and activating Russia eSIM

To set up and activate an eSIM in Russia, follow these steps: 

• Check Device Compatibility: Ensure your device supports eSIM functionality (most recent smartphones, such as iPhones and Samsung Galaxy models, do).
• Purchase an eSIM: Buy an eSIM from a mobile carrier’s website or a designated app. Options include major carriers like Beeline, MTS, or Megafon. Some eSIM providers may also offer tourist-specific plans.
• Receive Activation Details: After purchasing, you will receive a QR code or an activation code via email or SMS.
• Activate the eSIM: Follow any on-screen instructions to complete the setup. This may include selecting the eSIM as your primary line for data, calls, and texts.
• Confirmation: Once activated, you should receive a confirmation message. Your eSIM is now ready for use.

X. FAQs about Russia SIM card 

XI. Conclusion 

In conclusion, Russia SIM cards provide tourists with a convenient and affordable way to stay connected. By selecting the right carrier and understanding registration requirements, travelers can easily navigate the mobile landscape. Despite potential challenges like language barriers, the benefits of reliable communication and internet access significantly enhance the travel experience, allowing tourists to enjoy their journey with confidence.