On December 8, the Bank of Russia lifts the limits on foreign currency transfers abroad, which had been imposed on Russian citizens and individuals from friendly countries. RBC says the financial regulator attributed this decision to the "stable situation on the foreign exchange market."
Restrictions remain for non-residents from unfriendly countries
While the limits for citizens from friendly countries have been lifted, the Bank of Russia has decided to maintain a ban on transfers abroad for non-working individuals and legal entities from unfriendly countries until June 7, 2026. However, this restriction does not apply to foreign companies controlled by Russian legal or physical entities.
Regarding non-residents from unfriendly countries
For non-residents from unfriendly countries who are working in Russia, the ability to transfer funds abroad remains, but only up to the amount of their salary. This applies to both individuals and legal entities working in the country.
Transfers for foreign investors and banks
The exemptions for foreign investors working with the Russian financial market remain in place. They can continue transferring funds from "In" accounts to foreign accounts. Banks from unfriendly countries will also be allowed to transfer rubles through correspondent accounts opened with Russian banks, as long as both the payer’s and recipient’s accounts are in foreign banks.
History of restrictions
The Bank of Russia imposed limits on foreign transfers in March 2022 following the outbreak of the military conflict with Ukraine and the subsequent imposition of international sanctions. Initially, the regulator prohibited transfers of more than $5,000 per month. Over time, the restrictions were relaxed, and by July 2022, the limit was raised to $1 million. Currently, there is a limit of $10,000 per month on money transfers via remittance systems or the equivalent in another foreign currency.
Latest updates
The last update on the extension of the restrictions was made by the Bank of Russia in September 2025, when it was announced that the limits would remain in place until March 31, 2026, inclusive.
