Russia Approves Rollout Plan for Digital Ruble and Unified QR Code Payments

Starting in 2026, Russians will be able to pay with digital rubles using a single QR code, as the country transitions to a new era of cashless payments.

Russia’s State Duma has officially approved legislation governing the nationwide rollout of the digital ruble and a unified QR code system for cashless transactions. The new law sets out a phased plan to implement the system beginning in 2026.

As of September 1, 2026, all Russian banks will be required to support payments through the universal QR code. The country’s largest financial institutions and their partners must also enable transactions in digital rubles. The system will be operated by the National Payment Card System (NSPK), a subsidiary of the Central Bank of Russia.

The phased rollout will continue through 2028. In 2027, banks with a universal license will join the system, followed by remaining market participants in 2028. Small businesses earning less than 5 million rubles annually will be exempt. The digital ruble is not intended to replace cash or bank cards but will serve as an additional low-commission payment option.

Pilot tests of the platform began in August 2023, with full-scale implementation set to launch in 2026 once the legislation takes effect. According to experts, the initiative will accelerate digital transformation and enhance transparency in financial transactions.