Russia Is to Waive Fees on Digital Ruble Payments to the Budget

From January 1, 2026, payments to the state budget made in digital rubles will be processed without commissions, the Central Bank of Russia has officially announced. The measure applies to both individuals and organizations taking part in the pilot program for the national digital currency.

For Pilot Participants

For now, fee-free payments are available only to organizations participating in the digital ruble pilot. Starting September 1, 2026, however, the country’s largest banks are required to allow anyone to open a digital wallet and use the digital ruble for payments, including taxes, fees, and other transfers to the budget.

Preferential terms for other digital ruble operations for businesses — including transfers and cashless payments — have also been extended through the end of 2026. This means companies can more easily use the new form of currency for day-to-day operations without incurring additional costs.

The digital ruble is a new electronic form of Russia’s national currency that the central bank is testing together with commercial banks and other financial market participants. Over time, it is intended to circulate alongside cash and non-cash rubles, offering users a fast and secure way to make payments via digital wallets.

For People and Businesses

For individuals, transfers in digital rubles remain free at all times, making the new payment tool convenient for everyday transactions. For businesses, however, the removal of commissions is particularly significant. It lowers operating costs when paying taxes and fees and encourages the use of digital money in transactions with government bodies. Over time, the digital ruble is expected to spread to routine payments by both individuals and companies. According to the central bank’s plan, full rollout of the digital ruble is to be completed by September 2026, after which the new form of currency could become a standard means of payment in daily life.