Before you go
Good questions to ask before a trip to Russia
Who am I actually paying, is this a real company?
Yes. Waves DMC Russia is backed by a duly registered, operating company in Russia, the same team that has supported corporate and individual travel there for 20 years. International card payments into Russia are slow and often don't go through, so payment for the service itself is handled by our European branch (registered in Portugal) instead, it's simply the easiest way for you to pay with a foreign card. Either way, you're paying a real, registered business, not a personal account.
Do I need to register anything when I arrive?
Yes, since mid-2025, foreign visitors need to register through the RuID system and get a QR code as part of entry procedures. It's not complicated, but it's easy to miss if nobody tells you. We'll walk you through it before you land, so it's one less thing to worry about at the airport.
Will my phone work as soon as I land?
Not immediately, in most cases. Foreign SIM cards and eSIMs are commonly blocked for the first 24 hours after you connect to a Russian network, a security measure, not a bug. We'll tell you what to expect and how to stay connected in the meantime (Wi-Fi, local SIM options, etc.).
Will I need anything for getting around the city?
Most likely, yes, a transport card for buses, metro and trams. Rather than working out how and where to get one once you've landed, we arrange it ahead of time as part of our support, so it's simply ready and waiting for you. Small detail, real time saved.
Where can I actually exchange currency or use my card?
Card acceptance and currency exchange in Russia work differently than what you might be used to, and it varies depending on where you're from. We'll tell you what will realistically work for you specifically, rather than generic advice that may not apply.
What if something goes wrong while I'm there, a missed flight, a lost document, anything urgent?
That's exactly what we're for. Message us and we'll help you sort it out in real time, whether that's rebooking a ticket, arranging a transfer, or just figuring out next steps.
Do you only work in Moscow and St. Petersburg?
No, we support trips across Russia's regions, not just the two most-visited cities. Tell us where you're headed.
Is this only for tourists, or can you help with business trips too?
Both. Whether you're visiting for leisure or for work, the support is the same, planning ahead, sorting out logistics, and being available if something comes up on the ground.