Russia Moves Toward QR-Code Identification for Everyday Documents
A new proposal from the Ministry of Digital Development could allow Russians to use QR codes instead of physical documents in a wide range of daily situations.
Russia’s Ministry of Digital Development has proposed expanding the list of documents that citizens can present in digital form using a QR code. Under the initiative, items such as a passport, driver’s license, compulsory car insurance policy, student ID, and birth certificate could all be verified digitally.
Pilot testing has already shown that Russians are quick to adopt the technology. For now, traffic police may still request a printed version of a driver’s license or vehicle registration if it was originally issued on paper. A QR code used in place of a passport is being tested for age-restricted purchases, mailing packages and letters, and entering office buildings. Students and large families can also use QR codes instead of traditional IDs.
One-Touch Convenience
Once the government order is signed, the number of documents eligible for QR-code verification will expand even further. The ministry emphasizes that using digital codes will remain voluntary. The regulation will come into effect after approval by all relevant agencies. The initiative aims to improve convenience for citizens at a time when contactless smartphone payments continue to grow in popularity—one-third of all transactions in 2025 were made through mobile payment services.
