Russia – Landlines and Mobile Phones

What are the international dialling codes for Russia, and what are the area codes for the most popular expat destinations?

Russia’s telephone country code is +7, a designation it shares with Kazakhstan. As a member of the International Telecommunication Union (ITU), Russia participates in the international numbering plan. To call Russia from overseas, you first dial your country’s international exit code (typically 00 or 011), followed by 7, the relevant area code, and then the subscriber number.

Russia operates a closed national numbering plan in which all subscriber telephone numbers have exactly ten digits — three for the area code and seven for the individual subscriber number. This means that when placing a domestic call, you will always dial ten digits following the trunk access prefix.

Moscow is served by two principal area codes: 495 and 499. Moscow landlines follow the format +7 495 XXX-XX-XX or +7 499 XXX-XX-XX. St. Petersburg falls under area code 812. Below is a summary of area codes for cities that are popular among expats:

Russian mobile numbers always begin with 9 immediately after the +7 country code. A frequent point of confusion for new arrivals involves the older domestic dialling convention: Russia historically used 8 as a trunk prefix rather than the +7 country code. If you receive a number written as 8 9XX XXX XX XX, simply substitute the leading 8 with +7. When calling from outside Russia, you always include the full area code after +7 — no digit is dropped.

Toll-free numbers in Russia use the 8 800 format. The unified emergency number is 112, and additional specialised services are reachable on 101–104. For authoritative numbering plan information, consult the Roskomnadzor website or the Ministry of Digital Development.

Who are the major landline providers in Russia, and how can you contact them?

Rostelecom, founded in 1993 and partly owned by the state, has historically been regarded as Russia’s leading provider of fixed-line voice services. In February 2014, President Vladimir Putin signed amendments to the federal law “On Communications” designating Rostelecom as the sole operator of universal communications services. This makes Rostelecom the standard landline provider for most of the country.

In practice, Rostelecom functions as a de facto monopoly for residential fixed-line telephony across Russia, with the exception of certain regions whose incumbents were not incorporated into the Svyazinvest holding following privatisation in the early 1990s — among them Moscow, Pskov, Kostroma, and the republics of Tatarstan, Bashkortostan, Tuva, Chukotka, Chechnya, and Ingushetia. In those territories, independent alternative operators may be active.

As demand for fixed-line voice services has declined nationally, Rostelecom has diversified steadily into adjacent telecommunications segments. In 2020, it completed the full acquisition of Tele2’s Russian subsidiary, making mobile services its primary revenue stream. By 2023, Rostelecom was generating more than twice as much income from fixed broadband as from traditional fixed-voice telephony, and the company also offers pay television, information security, and a range of digital services.

The principal fixed-line providers along with their contact details are listed below. Tariffs change regularly, so always verify current pricing on each provider’s official website.

In January 2006, Russia enacted legislation on long-distance telecommunications that partially dismantled Rostelecom’s monopoly over toll services, permitting other carriers to enter that market. Today, approximately 32 active companies operate in this space, including Interregional TransitTelekom (MTT), Golden Telecom, TransTelekom, and Synterra Media. For the most current list of licensed operators, refer to the Roskomnadzor register of licensed operators.

Who are the major mobile phone providers in Russia, and how can you contact them?

Russia’s four largest mobile carriers — MTS, Beeline, MegaFon, and Tele2 — have each played a defining role in shaping the country’s mobile market through decades of competition and development. Following the sale of VimpelCom, all four major operators are now domestically owned companies.

MTS (Mobile TeleSystems) holds the largest share of the Russian mobile market at approximately 31%. The operator provides broad coverage across every region of the country, with particular strength in major cities and along principal transport corridors. In addition to cellular services, MTS offers local telephone, broadband, mobile, cable, satellite, and digital television. As of 2024, MTS is among the few operators deploying 5G technology in Russia, albeit in a limited capacity.

MegaFon, with roughly 76 million subscribers and a 27% market share, continues to invest heavily in both consumer and enterprise connectivity. In 2025, the operator expanded LTE coverage in Moscow by 17.4% and improved median download speeds by 12%. MegaFon demonstrates strong coverage across both urban centres and rural regions, with particularly reliable signal in the country’s northern territories.

Beeline, serving 54.3 million users and holding a 28% market share, capitalises on its urban network strength and digital service offerings, including AI-driven features integrated into its mobile applications. The operator is well regarded for competitive pricing on calls to CIS countries and for generally affordable tariffs.

Tele2 Russia, with 45.9 million subscribers and a 14% market share, pursues a value-focused strategy while expanding its digital footprint through its relationship with Rostelecom. Tele2 originally built its reputation by offering affordable mobile services in smaller Russian towns and underserved regions outside Moscow and St. Petersburg, and that emphasis on accessibility remains central to its positioning.

Always consult each operator’s official website for the latest tariffs and plan details, as pricing is subject to frequent revision. Virtually every mobile network provider in Russia delivers services across 2G, 3G, 4G, and LTE standards, with 4G accounting for the largest proportion of total mobile connections in the country. 5G remains limited to a small number of operators and is largely in a pilot or restricted deployment phase; wider rollout has been delayed because the 3.4–3.8 GHz frequency band commonly used for 5G internationally has been reserved for government and military purposes in Russia.

Beyond the four dominant carriers, MVNOs including Yota, Sbermobile, Tinkoff Mobile, and Penny contribute further variety to the market. These virtual operators run on one of the four main networks and can deliver competitive pricing, especially for data-intensive users.

How do I get a landline connected in Russia?

The process for arranging a fixed-line telephone connection in Russia varies according to both the provider and the type of service being requested. In general, you can initiate the process either through a provider’s website or by calling their customer service hotline, after which you select a plan and agree on connection options. Installation lead times differ by location — urban properties are typically connected faster than those in rural areas. Always confirm current timelines directly with your chosen provider.

If the property you are moving into already has a landline installed, the simplest approach is to transfer the existing contract into your name. You will need to visit the nearest branch of the relevant service provider with your lease agreement and passport. This route is the most straightforward option for renters taking over a home with an active line.

For a brand-new landline connection, the typical steps are as follows:

1. Identify the provider covering your address. Rostelecom is the default fixed-line operator across most of Russia. In Moscow, MGTS (a subsidiary of MTS) is the principal operator. You can check which provider serves your address by visiting rostelecom.ru or mgts.ru and entering your postcode or street address.
2. Select a suitable plan. Browse the available tariffs on the provider’s website. Landline plans in Russia are generally structured as monthly subscriptions and are frequently bundled together with broadband and television services. Always check the official website for up-to-date pricing, as rates are subject to change.
3. Assemble the required documents. You will ordinarily need: a valid passport (this applies to foreign nationals as well as Russian citizens), documentary proof of address (such as a tenancy agreement or property ownership certificate), and in certain cases your address registration stamp (propiska) confirming your place of residence in Russia.
4. Submit your application. You may apply through the provider’s website, via the customer service telephone line, or by visiting a branch office in person. For foreign nationals, attending in person is often the most reliable option, as staff can assist directly with verifying your documents.
5. Wait for the installation appointment. A technician will be scheduled to install or activate the line at your property. In urban areas, this is typically completed within a few working days to two weeks; connections in rural locations may take considerably longer. Ask your provider for the expected timeframe when you submit your application.
6. Sign the service contract and receive your number. Once the line is active, you will be asked to sign the service agreement. Keep a copy of this document for your records. Your landline number will be formally assigned at this stage.

Providers may ask for additional personal details or supporting documents as part of the verification process. In some instances — particularly for non-residents or new customers — a credit check or security deposit may be required before service can commence. If you do not yet hold a Russian address registration (propiska), raise this directly with the provider, as requirements and flexibility vary. For information on consumer rights in telecommunications, the Roskomnadzor website is a useful reference.

How do I get a mobile phone SIM card or contract in Russia?

Connecting to a Russian mobile network is generally a simple process. SIM cards are readily obtainable at dedicated phone shops — including branded stores and authorised dealers for MTS, Beeline, MegaFon, and Tele2 — which are found throughout Russian cities. In-store staff can guide you through SIM activation and help you choose an appropriate plan. You must bring your passport, as passport-based SIM registration is a legal requirement in Russia, not a discretionary formality.

This sets Russia apart from countries such as France, where prepaid SIMs can be purchased over the counter without any identity verification. In Russia, both prepaid and postpaid SIM cards must be registered against a passport at the point of purchase, regardless of whether you are a tourist, a recent arrival, or a long-term resident.

There are several channels through which you can obtain a SIM card:

• Operator stores: Branded outlets and authorised dealers for MTS, Beeline, MegaFon, and Tele2 are well distributed across Russian cities. Store staff can manage SIM activation and plan selection. Bring your passport for identity verification.
• Airport kiosks: On arrival in Russia, you will find mobile operator kiosks at major airports offering SIM cards with tourist-friendly bundled plans. These are convenient for immediate connectivity but may carry a price premium compared with city-centre stores.
• Supermarkets: Retail chains including Azbuka Vkusa, Auchan, and Lenta stock prepaid SIM card packs from Russian carriers, available off the shelf alongside top-up vouchers.
• Online/eSIM: Leading operators accept online applications for both eSIM activation and physical SIM card delivery within Russia. A local delivery address will be required for physical orders.

For a postpaid (contract) plan, you will normally need to visit an operator store in person, presenting your passport along with proof of Russian address registration (propiska). Both mobile contracts and rechargeable prepaid packages are available to choose from. Newcomers without permanent residency documentation may find it more practical to begin with a prepaid SIM and transition to a contract arrangement once their registration is in place.

Since 2018, all additional charges for intra-Russian roaming have been eliminated. All four major operators have removed any surcharges applied to customers travelling between Russian regions while using their own network. Your plan’s included allowances — calls, data, and SMS — therefore apply uniformly across the whole of Russia at no extra cost, comparable to the way domestic roaming functions within the EU under EU roaming regulations.

How do I pay my telephone bill in Russia?

Telephone bills in Russia can be settled through a wide variety of channels, including online platforms, bank transfers, and dedicated payment centres. Digital payment methods are particularly well established, with Russian banking applications and self-service payment terminals widely distributed in cities and towns across the country.

The main payment methods available to telephone customers are:

• Provider app or website: All four major mobile operators offer apps through which you can monitor your balance, settle bills, and adjust your plan. Rostelecom and MGTS similarly provide online account management portals for fixed-line customers.
• Russian bank transfer or online banking: The majority of Russian banks — including Sberbank, Tinkoff, and Alfa-Bank — support direct payment of telecoms bills from within their mobile or online banking applications. This is the most commonly used approach for routine monthly payments.
• Self-service payment terminals (платёжные терминалы): Cash-accepting kiosks can be found in shopping centres, metro stations, post offices, and supermarkets. To pay, you select your operator, enter your phone number, and feed in the required cash amount.
• Automatic top-up or auto-payment: You can register a bank card with your mobile account to enable automatic renewal at each billing cycle. This is particularly recommended for contract customers who wish to avoid inadvertent service interruptions.
• In person at operator stores or post offices: Payments can be made in person at any branded operator outlet or at a Russian Post (Pochta Rossii) branch.

Mobile bills for contract customers are typically issued on a monthly basis. Prepaid options are available for both mobile and fixed-line services. With a prepaid plan, you load credit in advance and draw it down according to your usage, topping up as required to sidestep unexpected charges. Should your prepaid balance be exhausted, outgoing calls and data will be suspended until you add credit, though incoming calls may remain functional depending on your specific tariff — confirm this detail with your operator. Sustained non-payment on a contract plan can lead to service suspension and ultimately to termination of the agreement.

Are there any practical tips for using phones in Russia as a newcomer?

Russia has a strong mobile network infrastructure with 4G coverage extending across major cities and popular destinations. Nevertheless, there are a number of important considerations to be aware of before and after your arrival.

eSIM availability: All Russian operators now support eSIM technology, removing the need for a physical SIM card altogether. eSIMs make it possible to switch between operators without swapping cards, run multiple phone numbers on a single device, and activate service remotely without needing to visit a shop. This is particularly convenient on arrival, when you may not yet have a local address to which a physical SIM can be delivered.

Number porting (MNP): Russia introduced Mobile Number Portability (MNP) in 2013, enabling subscribers to take their number with them when changing operators. Unlike some markets where porting is completed within a single working day, the process in Russia generally takes between two and eight working days. You initiate the request at your new operator’s store, and your existing number continues to work on your current network throughout the transfer period. Check with your new provider for the latest processing timelines.

International roaming into Russia: If you are arriving with a SIM card issued in another country, roaming on Russian networks is in principle possible, but be aware that since 2022, roaming agreements between Russian carriers and many Western network operators have been substantially disrupted. It is strongly advisable to verify with your home country operator well in advance whether their roaming arrangement with Russian networks remains active.

Coverage in rural and remote areas: MTS is recognised for its broad geographic coverage, maintaining signal even in remote locations. Beeline is noted for strong urban connectivity and competitive data packages, while MegaFon is valued for high-speed data performance and reliable coverage in metropolitan areas. If you are moving to a rural location or to a Siberian region, MTS or MegaFon are generally regarded as the most dependable choices.

Regulatory context: Telecommunications in Russia is governed primarily through the Federal Law “On Communications” and the Federal Law “On Mass Media”. Telephone numbers are administered by Roskomnadzor and the Ministry of Digital Development, Communications and Mass Media of the Russian Federation. The Roskomnadzor website is the definitive source for consumer rights information in the telecoms sector.

Infrastructure note: Russia’s telecommunications market has faced pressures arising from Western export restrictions on high-technology equipment introduced following the 2022 invasion of Ukraine, and major equipment suppliers such as Ericsson and Nokia withdrew from the market. The government has responded with subsidies and preferential financing for domestic manufacturers. These developments have affected network upgrade schedules in some regions, although core 4G services remain broadly reliable in major urban centres.

Language support: Operator apps and customer service lines function primarily in Russian. Beeline offers English-language customer support, and MegaFon can arrange service in multiple languages upon request. If your Russian language skills are limited, either of these two operators may be the most accessible starting point for resolving support queries.

Device compatibility: Before travelling or relocating, confirm that your handset is network-unlocked and supports the GSM frequency bands used in Russia: 900/1800 MHz for 2G, 2100 MHz for 3G, and 800/1800/2600 MHz for 4G LTE. The vast majority of modern smartphones sold globally will function on Russian networks without issue, but older models or carrier-locked devices may not. Review your device specifications in advance.

Frequently asked questions about telephone services in Russia

Can I keep my foreign number when I move to Russia?

It is not possible to port a foreign number into the Russian mobile network — Mobile Number Portability (MNP) in Russia covers only transfers between domestic Russian operators. You will need to acquire a new Russian number on arrival. You can, however, retain your foreign SIM and use it alongside your Russian number on a dual-SIM device or by adding it as an eSIM profile.

Do I need a local address to get a SIM card in Russia?

A local address is not a prerequisite for purchasing a prepaid SIM card at a retail store or airport kiosk — your passport is the primary document required for registration purposes. However, online orders and applications for postpaid contract plans will generally require a Russian address and address registration (propiska). Check with your chosen operator regarding their specific requirements.

Can tourists buy a SIM card in Russia without a visa or residency permit?

Your passport is required at the point of purchase for verification. Airport kiosks serve tourists arriving in Russia with readily available SIM cards and bundled data plans. A residency permit is not required to purchase a prepaid SIM — your passport alone is sufficient. Postpaid contract accounts, however, typically require evidence of Russian residency.

What is the emergency number in Russia?

Russia’s unified emergency number is 112, and additional service-specific numbers are available on 101–104. The 112 number can be dialled at no charge from any phone, including mobile devices with no credit remaining or no SIM inserted. The service supports multiple languages, including options for non-Russian speakers.

How long does it take to port my number to a different Russian operator?

Russia implemented Mobile Number Portability (MNP) in 2013, giving subscribers the right to keep their number when switching between domestic operators. Once you have submitted a porting request at your new operator’s store, the transfer typically takes between two and eight working days. During this period, your number remains active on your existing network.

Are eSIMs available in Russia?

All Russian mobile operators now offer eSIM support. Leading carriers including MTS, Beeline, and Tele2 are compatible with this digital SIM format, which allows users to switch between operators without physically replacing a SIM card, manage more than one phone number on a single device, and activate service remotely without a store visit. Check each operator’s official website for a list of compatible devices and step-by-step activation guidance.

Is mobile internet reliable in Russian cities?

Mobile internet quality in Russia is generally strong, with most operators providing 4G/LTE coverage across the majority of cities and towns, and free Wi-Fi widely available in public spaces. The average mobile internet speed across Russian regions stood at approximately 18.7 Mbps as of November 2023, with notably faster performance in Moscow where operators concentrate their investment. Connections in rural and remote areas may be slower or less consistent.

Who regulates telephone services in Russia, and where can I raise a complaint?

Telephone numbers and telecoms services in Russia are overseen by Roskomnadzor and the Ministry of Digital Development, Communications and Mass Media of the Russian Federation. Roskomnadzor (rkn.gov.ru) is the primary regulatory authority and consumer protection body for the telecoms sector. Complaints relating to billing disputes, service quality, or provider conduct can be submitted to Roskomnadzor or to the Federal Antimonopoly Service (FAS), which holds oversight over competition issues in the telecoms market.