The Russian Embassy in Turkmenistan reports that new regulations on SIM card circulation have been in effect in Russia since January 1, 2025. These changes apply to foreign citizens and stateless persons. According to amendments introduced by Federal Law No. 303-FZ dated August 8, 2024, a contract for communication services for foreign citizens can now only be concluded upon presenting an identity document and verifying personal data through the Unified Identification and Authentication System (ESIA) and the Unified Biometric System (EBS).
Key changes include:
-
The SIM card is linked to a specific device specified in the contract. If inserted into another device, services will be unavailable until the new IMEI is registered.
-
Online contracts for purchasing SIM cards are prohibited.
-
A person can own no more than 10 mobile numbers.
-
Exceptions apply to employees of diplomatic missions, holders of diplomatic and service passports, and their family members.
Telecom operators must bring existing contracts with foreign citizens in line with the new requirements by July 1, 2025, or terminate services under such contracts.
Additionally, since January 1, 2025, anonymous cash payments for mobile numbers have been prohibited. Payments must be made with an identity document or through ESIA verification at banks, post offices, and telecom service providers.
Starting April 1, 2025, foreign citizens will receive notifications via the "Gosuslugi" portal and SMS upon purchasing a SIM card. They will also be able to view all registered numbers and cancel them if necessary.
ORIENT News
