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[[File:Ru.png|thumb|220x220px]]
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=='''General'''==
 
=='''General'''==
 
''In the Russian Federation some special rules for mobile phones apply. You should check them first to avoid frustration. Basically, you can't expect anyone to speak English in this country. So you might print out the offer in Russian before to show what you want. To make it easier, the most important words are shown in Cyrillic too.''
 
''In the Russian Federation some special rules for mobile phones apply. You should check them first to avoid frustration. Basically, you can't expect anyone to speak English in this country. So you might print out the offer in Russian before to show what you want. To make it easier, the most important words are shown in Cyrillic too.''
 
===='''Basics'''====
 
===='''Basics'''====
It's next to impossible to show all prices for Russia, because their pricing is immensely complex. The Russian Federation consists of 85 "federal subjects" which can be provinces, territories, federal cities or other districts and are called regions in this article. For every region even the same provider has different prices. So we only give it here for the '''Moscow''' region (and St. Petersburg for Tele2). They are the highest in the country, in other areas you can expect to pay a little less.
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It's next to impossible to show all prices for Russia, because their pricing is immensely complex. The Russian Federation consists of 85 "federal subjects" which can be provinces, territories, federal cities or other districts and are called regions in this article. For every region even the same provider has different prices. So we only give it here for the '''Moscow''' '''region'''. They are the highest in the country; in other areas you can expect to pay less.
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Living in this huge country, the residents have mostly more than one SIM card. Like in the US and China, every SIM is locked to a specified provider and region too. All calls, texts and even data traffic made outside the region lead to domestic roaming surcharges even within the same provider. Furthermore, when roaming, there are incoming charges even for calls from the same provider. So try to buy a SIM card in the region where you are going to use it most. The Russian anti-monopoly authority tries to get rid of all domestic roaming surcharges. They have announced the end for 2017, but this hasn't happened. Now in 2018 the scrapping of all roaming surcharges can be expected and "regional" prices will become the same as "national".
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The complicated dialing of phone numbers within Russia is explained in detail in this [[wikipedia:Telephone_numbers_in_Russia|wiki]]. To avoid any problems with Russian-style dialling, it's better to dial all numbers in international style with "+" sign and country code.
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==== '''No more intra-Russian roaming charges''' ====
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In autumn 2018 all intra-Russian roaming surcharges have been coming to an end. All four major mobile operators have now ceased all forms of additional charging for their own network users travelling between Russian regions. The last elements of on-net roaming fees to be cancelled were additional costs for receiving incoming domestic calls. Beeline was first to remove the incoming call charges on 20 August 2018, followed by Tele2 on 27 August, MTS on 30 August and Megafon on 1 September.
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Now all allowances like data packages are valid all over Russia nationwide without additional fees. This doesn't apply to the Crimea region as there different providers operate and usage is considered as roaming.
   
  +
==== '''Censorship''' ====
Living in this huge country, the residents have mostly more than one SIM card. Like in the US and China, every SIM is locked to a specified provider and region too. All calls, text and even data traffic made outside of this region lead to domestic roaming surcharges even within the same provider. Furthermore, there are incoming roaming charges for calls from abroad or different Russian regions by the same provider too. So to try buy a SIM card at the place, where you are going to use it most.
 
  +
Have in mind that internet access to some websites is "controlled" or censored. The official targets are porn, drug abuse, suicide, pedophilia, terrorist and separatist combat organizations and copyright infringement ([http://eais.rkn.gov.ru/ official black list] in Russian only, unofficial [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Internet_censorship_in_Russia Wikipedia] about the situation in English), but recently major sites like [https://www.linkedin.com/ LinkedIn social network] and [https://zello.com/ Zello voice chat] have been blocked too by court order after it refused to store data in Russia. About 4000 websites are on Russia's blacklist now and one can argue, if they all fit into the given categories. In 2018 the popular messenger app Telegram was banned by court order for refusing to give Russia’s Federal Security Service (FSB) encryption keys that would grant access to user messaging data.
   
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So you might think of installing a VPN app to safeguard anonymity. A new law enforced from November 2017 threatens to ban all VPN and proxy services in order to make sure blacklisted sites can't be accessed. All internet providers are required to block websites that offer any VPN services, while blocking all VPN traffic is technically not feasible.
The complicated dialling of phone numbers within Russia is explained in detail in this [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Telephone_numbers_in_Russia WIKI]. For data, you can skip these rules, but be aware that there a two kinds of data packages: "domestic", valid only within the specified region of your SIM card leading to surcharges outside and "national" valid all over the federation.
 
   
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Nowadays there are '''no technical obstacles''' to prevent using TOR and VPN protocols implemented. You can use PPTP, L2TP, OpenVPN, SSH and SOCKS technologies, as only few "anonymizer websites" and some popular Russian-owned public VPNs banned. Be aware of this situation and draw your own conclusions.
Have in mind that internet access to some sites is "controlled" or censored. So you might think of installing a VPN program or app before. The official censorship targets are porn, drug abuse, suicide, pedophilia and copyright infringement ([http://eais.rkn.gov.ru/ official black list]in Russian only, inofficial [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Internet_censorship_in_Russia Wikipedia] about the situation in English).
 
   
 
===='''Networks'''====
 
===='''Networks'''====
Russia uses European frequencies throughout its country: 2G is on 900 and 1800 MHz, 3G (up to HSPA+) on 900 and 2100 MHz mainly in the cities and 4G/LTE on 800 and 2600 MHz started in 2012/3 on all operators and is available for prepaid without surcharges in the major towns. Lately, it was added by 1800 MHz on all three providers. Additionally many operators also operate TD-LTE networks in the Moscow region, these are often 2600 MHz but instead of FDD-LTE (Band 7) they are on 2600 MHz TD-LTE Band 38. Tele2's LTE (TD-LTE) is on 2300 MHz Band 40. If you are looking for 4G/LTE make sure you device supports the frequency bands. See information on each provider for details on what bands they use.
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Russia uses European frequencies throughout its country: 2G is on 900 and 1800 MHz, 3G (up to HSPA+) on 900 and 2100 MHz mainly in the cities and 4G/LTE on 800 and 2600 MHz started in 2012/3 on all operators and is available for prepaid without surcharges in the major towns. Lately, 1800 MHz was added by all three providers. Additionally many operators also operate TD-LTE networks in the Moscow region, these are often 2600 MHz but instead of FDD-LTE (Band 7) they are on 2600 MHz TD-LTE (Band 38). Tele2's LTE (TD-LTE) is on 2300 MHz (Band 40). In 2017 the regulator released the 2100 MHz (Band 1) previously used only for 3G, to be used for 4G/LTE too.
   
  +
Tele2 also runs special purpose 450 MHz 4G/LTE (band 31) network in Moscow, Saint Petersburg and Tver regions since July 2016. The main purpose of this network is to cover some rural areas with poor coverage of other frequencies. Also it's used by some government and emergency services and payphones. It's open for prepaid customers, but not recommended as it requires special equipment. There are no smartphones and tablets for this band; only some modems and routers available.
There are 5 national mobile operators active in Russia:
 
  +
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If you are looking for 4G/LTE, make sure you device supports the frequency bands. See information on each provider for details on what bands they use.
  +
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There are five national mobile network operators active in Russia:
 
*'''MegaFon''' (МегаФон)
 
*'''MegaFon''' (МегаФон)
 
*'''MTS''' (MTC)
 
*'''MTS''' (MTC)
*'''Beeline''' (by VimpelCom)
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*'''Beeline''' (Билайн)
*'''Tele2''' (joint venture with Rostelecom)
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*'''Tele2''' (Теле2), owned and controlled by state provider Rostelecom
*'''Yota''' (Йота, joint venture with MegaFon)
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*'''Yota''' (Йота), joint venture with MegaFon
'''MegaFon''' has the best nationwide coverage and good speeds in cities at highest prices. It is consided by many as the premier network in the country and the only one to cover all 83 regions. '''MTS''' is at present the biggest operator with more than 100 million customers and licenses in 81 regions of the country. '''Beeline''' is the budget operator with lowest rates active in 78 regions nationwide. '''Tele2''' and Rostelecom are building a fourth network active in 41 regions only (not in Moscow) and merged into a joint venture in 2014. '''Yota''' is a new operator, it uses own base stations for data and joint MegaFon's stations for voice.
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'''MegaFon''' has the best nationwide coverage and good speeds in cities with about 76 million customers. It is considered by many as the premier network in the country and the first one that covered all 83 regions (except Crimea).
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'''MTS''' is at present the biggest operator with about 78 million customers and it is licensed in 83 regions of the country. It is the only provider operator that can be used in Crimea.
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'''Beeline''' is 3rd nationwide operator working in 78 regions with about 58 million customers. It is popular for calling to CIS countries.
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'''Tele2''' by Rostelecom is building a fourth national network active in 60 regions with about 44 million customers after they merged into a joint venture in 2014.
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'''Yota''' is a virtual operator (MVNO) which is a 100% subsidiary of MegaFon. It uses MegaFon's radio access network but a separate switching and billing system. Yota's main point is fully unlimited data traffic but with some restrictions such as blocked P2P networks or tethering. Although the network is the same, you may not have access to LTE in some regions where Yota SIM cards are not sold, unlike MegaFon subscribers who would (this is due to licence restrictions).
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There are also local operators in many regions. They are not listed here, and may or may not be worth considering
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At the end of 2018 Megafon had 86,000 4G/LTE base stations, MTS 61,000, Tele2 47,000 and Beeline 43,000.
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Meanwhile Russia's MVNOs market remains relatively small. It's set to reach 6.8 million subscribers in total by the end of 2017, which were less than 2% of all mobile phone users. This has changed in 2018 when first MVNOs started mostly on the Tele2 network. The most accessible are given out by banks: '''Tinkoff Mobile '''and '''SberMobile,''' but there are others more, that are harder to get hold of.
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In 2014, '''[[Crimea]]''' or Crimean Peninsula became de facto part of the Russian Federation. For legal reasons, separate network providers operate in this region. For more details refer to our [[Crimea|special article]] about this territory.
   
 
===='''Buying a SIM card'''====
 
===='''Buying a SIM card'''====
There are three ways of buying a SIM card in Russia: the official, the semi-offical and the unofficial.
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There are still 4 different ways of buying a SIM card in Russia: the official, the semi-official and two unofficial.
   
*In the shops of the providers, you will need to present your passport (containing the visa and the entry stamp) and the "invitation" or a certificate of your registered place to stay to get a SIM card. A foreign passport will usually work, but some vendors will only know how to deal with a Russian passport. This way is recommended if you have limited knowledge of Russian and need at least some help with setting up.
+
*In the official provider stores, you will need to present your passport (containing the Russian visa, if applicable for you, and the migration card with an entry stamp on it) to get a SIM card. For some cases, you can present a certificate of registration at the place of temporary/permanent residence (so called "temporary/permanent ''propiska''") instead of the migration card, but for the majority of visitors a foreign passport (with the Russian visa and the migration card) will work; however, some dealers do not know how to deal with a foreign passport. This way is recommended if you have limited knowledge of Russian and need at least some help with setting up.
*Some electronic or cell phone shops will also set you up skipping some paper work. They might be easier to deal with but charge you a commission of 10-20% for their work. This is especially recommended, if you don't speak Russian and find someone who speaks English.
+
*Some electronic or cell phone shops will also set you up skipping some paper work. They might be easier to deal with but charge you a commission of 10-20% for their work. This is especially recommended if you don't speak Russian and need someone who speaks English.
*Another option is buying a SIM card in a kiosk at a subway entrance. That usually costs 100 Rub and some of that appears as a credit on the account. No ID required, these cards are pre-activated to someone's (possibly fictional) name. The worst that can happen: the card turns out to be blocked and you loose your 100 Rub. Usually it's okay though. There will be no support neither in English nor in Russian.
+
*Another option is to buy a SIM card in a kiosk or at the subway entrance and some railway stations. This is illegal according to Russian law, but it's still feasible. The card usually costs very little like 100..200RUB and some of that sum may appear as credit on the account balance or there is no balance at all and you need to top up first. Without ID or any other documents required, these cards are pre-activated and already registered to someone's (possibly fictional) name. The worst that can happen - the sudden block (ban) and you lose your RUB 100. Usually it's OK though. There will be no support, either in English or in Russian. You can't replace (restore) such cards in case of loss, damage or ban. You can receive tons of spam messages and advertisement calls.
  +
*You can order a SIM card on eBay (search for one of the operators in the SIM cards section) or at other websites. They may help you with English-speaking support, delivery and registration. But you will pay a surcharge for this service: SIM card with RUB 100 balance will cost you $9-$11 / €9 or more.
  +
  +
As an alternative to buying local SIM cards, it is possible to rent on a daily basis portable WiFi hotspots which provide unlimited speed and data internet access via 4G/3G. WIfiinrussia.com allows to arrange such rent of pocket WiFi online. Daily rent will cost you $5-$7, and you can connect all device of all your family or team to one hotspot simultaneously. Official registration of a subscriber is performed in accordance with Russian legislation.
  +
  +
A new law, imposing a ban on SIMs sales without the presentation of an ID, is in effect since 1 June, 2018. This means that a communication operator is now obliged to verify the reliability of the personal data of subscribers. If the subscriber doesn't pass the verification, the operator will be forced to suspend the provision of communication services. From experience this means that pre-activated SIM cards, will be usable for 10 days or less before they get de-activated. Also if multiple SIM cards are registered on bought on your name these might also be deemed to be suspicious and might not pass verification. However, there are lots of cards available on the black market till nowadays. [[File:No roaming.jpg|thumb|126x126px]]
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Be aware that Russia is '''not''' part of the EU, nor the EEA, where since 2017 new international roaming rules have been enforced. So roaming rates on European SIM cards are '''not''' capped or regulated in Russia and can be much higher. Better buy a local SIM card instead. You can top up all Russian Sim cards online with utransto.com
   
 
=='''MegaFon''' (МегаФон)==
 
=='''MegaFon''' (МегаФон)==
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[[File:Megafon.png|thumb|220x220px]]
[[File:Megafon.jpg|thumb]]Many users consider Megafon the best network in Russia for coverage and speed. It was the first to start 3G (2100/900 MHz) and 4G/LTE and is the only network which is available in every region of the country [http://moscow.megafon.ru/help/offices/#coverage (coverage map)]. LTE is on 2600 MHz, 800 MHz and 1800 MHz.. It considers itself as market leader, but it has the highest rates of all operators. The following prices are given for Moscow and are all open for 4G/LTE.
 
  +
MegaFon (mostly owned by russian USM Holding and Gazprombank) is one of three biggest Russian mobile operators. Many users consider MegaFon the best network in Russia for its nationwide coverage and high internet speed. However, the actual speed can vary due to overcrowding.
  +
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MegaFon was the first that started a 3G (on 2100 and 900 MHz) and 4G/LTE network in Russia. This is the only network that is available in every region of the country except [[Crimean Peninsula|Crimea and Sevastopol]] [http://moscow.megafon.ru/help/offices/#coverage (see the coverage map)]. Their LTE is mostly on 2600 MHz and has reached all 83 regions where they operate. 800 MHz and 1800 MHz exist too, but have very limited coverage and are unlikely to be seen.
  +
  +
It sees itself as market leader, but its rates can be higher than other operators. The following prices are given for Moscow region and are generally lower in other regions.
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==== '''General information''' ====
  +
* You can recharge online by credit card or via PayPal using a 3rd party agency website like [https://www.utransto.com/en utransto], [https://www.recharge.com/ Recharge.com] or D[https://www.ding.com/ ing]. Most EU, US and CIS countries cards are accepted. They will charge an additional fee for it. 
  +
* International roaming is active by default. You can receive incoming SMS, check the account balance for free, and even make and receive voice calls outside Russia. 
  +
* To check your account balance, dial *100# and get the balance on the screen for free. To check remaining data and other allowances (in bundles), dial *558#. 
  +
* Correct Internet settings (APN, login and password) are not required. It works with any settings.
  +
* MegaFon SIM cards are valid for 90 days since the last chargeable action. After 90 days of no usage, your account balance will be decremented by RUB 5 on a daily basis until the balance reaches zero, following which the number will be disconnected (terminated). To prevent this, you should make any chargeable action such as an outgoing voice call or send a text message (SMS). Recharging your account won't extend its lifetime! The easiest way to do this from outside Russia is to send a text message (SMS) to yourself.
  +
* The cheapest way is to use MegaFon's VoIP service called [https://emotion.megafon.ru/ eMotion] (previously known as [http://multifon.ru/ MultiFon] or "МультиФон"), which is based on SIP protocol. You can use MegaFon's own mobile application '''eMotion''' (for [https://itunes.apple.com/ru/app/emotion/id460052649 iPhone] or [https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=ru.megalabs.multifon Android]). VoIP calls to MegaFon numbers of the same region as yours are charged from your SIM card's balance at RUB 0.80 per minute (or part thereof).
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==== '''How to disable foisted trial, promotion and other useless options''' ====
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To avoid unnecessary charges, please ensure that all foisted paid options turned off. Those options are sometimes enabled by default (depends on region and plan). The best way to disable them is uncheck them all through [https://lk.megafon.ru/login/ online account management website] (available only in Russian). First of all, you should obtain a password for website login.
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Also you can disable the foisted options by dialing a special command from your phone:
  +
* "Who called me?" ("Кто звонил") - a pingback, missed call notice. Dial '''*581*3#''' to disable.
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* "SMS XXS" - Monthly SMS messages package. Often activates as promotion. Dial '''*105*1025#,''' then reply with "2" to disable it and finally reply with "1" to confirm.
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* Disable all Internet Packs (if you have any of them) including promotional "Internet XS" (free for 7 days): '''*236*00*1#'''. Don't forget to disable Internet Packs before leaving Russia if you want to keep SIM card and loaded money for the next time.
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* Kaleidoscope ("Калейдоскоп"). Annoying spam messages. Doesn't cost anything by itself, but if you press "yes" (even by mistake) on them you can end up with spam subscriptions for about RUB 5/day each, easily tripling your cost. Also it can hang up your modem. It doesn't show up in online account management website. To disable dial '''*808*0#'''.
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* "Instant credit" ("Кредит доверия"/"Плати когда удобно"). Provides an instant loan. Unsafe as you can end up owing money to provider if you don't settle the debt. To disable, dial '''*550*1#'''.
   
 
===='''Availability'''====
 
===='''Availability'''====
   
Their SIM is available at Megafon offices (салон) [http://moscow.megafon.ru/help/offices/#offices (location map)]. This way you need an ID. But you can also buy an envelope containing a a pre-activated SIM card with this tariff pre-selected at a subway entrance. This way you don't need an ID, it costs around 100 Rub (same price at a mobile shop), is pre-activated and has some credit.
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Their SIM cards is available at MegaFon branded offices ("салон") [http://moscow.megafon.ru/help/offices/#offices (location map)]. This way you need an official ID (a passport, sometimes with valid visa or migratory card). But you can also buy a pre-activated SIM card in a kiosk or at the subway entrance. This way you don't need an ID, it costs around 100 RUB (same price as in the official shop), it is already activated and has some credit.
   
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You can buy a SIM card online with a surcharge with worldwide delivery and English support (look at eBay)
<p class="b-tariff-item__header_title">They offer different prepaid tariff lines without a monthly fee: Switch to ZERO (Переходи на НОЛЬ), Everything's easy (Все просто''') '''or Warm Welcome''' '''(Тёплый приём +) which is their visitor line and here shown in detail.</p>
 
   
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They offer different prepaid plans without monthly fee:
<p class="b-tariff-item__header_title">To top up buy vouchers (Карты оплаты) available everywhere (typing *110#<top-up code> or top up online by international credit card [http://english.moscow.megafon.ru/payment/top-up/online_payment_credit_card/ here].</p>
 
  +
* <p class="b-tariff-item__header_title">'''Switch to ZERO''' ("Переходи на НОЛЬ"),</p>
===='''Warm Welcome '''(Тёплый приём +)====
 
  +
* <p class="b-tariff-item__header_title">#'''Hello'''</p>
Set up price is 200 Rub. Calls to other MegaFon subscribers are free (limited to 100 min/day outside of Moscow). Calls to other providers in Moscow 2.5 Rub./min and outside within Russia 8.5 Rub/min. Calls to the CIS countries 5-10 Rub/min and SMS 2.5-5 Rub just to give you an impression.
 
  +
* <p class="b-tariff-item__header_title">'''Warm Welcome '''("Тёплый приём").</p>
   
  +
* <p class="b-tariff-item__header_title">'''MegaFon Online''' data-only plan ("МегаФон-Онлайн")</p>
For data, internet package XS is automatically activated by default giving you 70 MB/day domestic (in Moscow!)  for 30 days at 64 kbps for free. Outside internet use is expensive by default (10 Rub/MB). So change to one of their packages.
 
===='''Data-only SIM'''====
 
<p class="b-tariff__header">MegaFon sells a data-SIM mainly for tablets or modems. It is called MegaFon-online (МегаФон-Онлайн). Set up price is 200 Rub and any regular SIM can be changed to this tariff by typing *510*1#</p>
 
   
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* <p class="b-tariff-item__header_title">and their combo plans with included allowances called '''Connect!''' ("Включайся!")</p>
<p class="b-tariff__header">It only gives a better default rate with 1.90 Rub/MB and hourly rounding to 150 KB! So you should better buy a data pack.</p>
 
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==== '''Switch to ZERO ("Переходи на НОЛЬ") and Everything is easy ("Всё просто") prepaid plans''' ====
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These standard plans are good for calling to other MegaFon users mainly within the same region.
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You can set this plans by dialing *105*1005*1# (Switch to ZERO) or *105*0041*1# (Everything is easy).
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<p class="b-tariff-item__header_title">For data, internet package "Internet XS" is automatically activated by default. It gives you 70 MB per day valid only in domestic region (Moscow area) for 30 days. Outside of domestic region internet usage is expensive by default (9.9 RUB/MB). If you don't need it, disable by dialing '''*236*00*1#'''.</p>
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===="'''Warm Welcome" prepaid plan ("Тёплый приём")'''====
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This is a good solution for international calls from Moscow area. New SIM card costs 200 RUB.
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Calling rates (valid only in Moscow area):
  +
* to other MegaFon numbers with same plan and same region - free (limited to 100 min/day).
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* to other phones in Moscow 2 RUB/min,
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* to MegaFon numbers of other regions - 2.5 RUB,
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* to other Russian numbers - 10 RUB/min.
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* to CIS and xUSSR countries - 3.5...20 RUB/min
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* to China, India, Vietnam, Turkey and Japan - 2...7 RUB/min
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You can switch to this plan from any other by dialing '''*105*0046*1#.'''
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It has the same base data plan as Switch to ZERO and Everything is easy. Recently, they issued two combo variants of Warm Welcome with data (WhatsApp, Viber, eMotion, imo, VKontakte, Odnoklassniki is free) and voice and SMS allowances added:
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* '''Warm Welcome S''': for 300 RUB monthly, it includes unlimited calls to MegaFon and 300 mins to all networks, 200 SMS and 4 GB data, activation: *105*1082#. For more data, use extension packs ("Продли скорость").
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* '''Warm Welcome M''': for 600 RUB monthly, it includes unlimited calls to MegaFon and 500 mins to all networks, 300 SMS and 10 GB data, activation: *105*1083#. For more data, use extension packs ("Продли скорость") or for a 1.70 RUB daily subscription rate unlimited mobile data at the maximum speed available on the network.
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==== '''#Hello''' ====
  +
The '''#Hello''' tariff was introduced for the World Cup 2018 and is valid for 14 days. It costs 700 RUB and includes 30 GB of data, unlimited Megafon calls and 30 minutes of calls to national and to some international destinations, 30 SMS and unlimited access to WhatsApp, Viber, eMotion, Facebook Messenger, Facebook and Instagram. If you want to keep using
  +
he account after 14 days, make sure you put 700 RUB in your MegaFon account. Then a new period of 14 days starts and all allowances are renewed.
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  +
When the allowance for calling and SMS is used up, you can
  +
continue calling and texting against the regular tariff (as long you have got money in your account).
  +
  +
If you have used up you internet allowance you have to activate a separate bundle:
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* 1 GB: 210 RUB - activation: '''*370*1*1#'''
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* 5 GB: 450 RUB - activation: '''*370*2*1#'''
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  +
When that internet bundle is used up dial: '''*370#''' to recharge that bundle again. For the #Hello plan automatic recharge of internet does not seem to be working.
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==== <s>"'''Around the World" prepaid plan ("Вокруг света")'''</s> ====
  +
Unfortunately, the best plan in the Moscow region has been suspended. MegaFon closed it for the new subscribers, existing numbers can still use it on [http://www.megafon.ru/go/s_news_1397 new terms] until further changes.
  +
===="'''MegaFon Online" data-only plan ("МегаФон-Онлайн")'''====
  +
<p class="b-tariff__header">MegaFon sells a data-SIM mainly for tablets or modems. It is called "MegaFon Online" ("МегаФон-Онлайн"). Start-up price is 200 RUB and any regular SIM can be switched to this plan by typing *510*1#.</p>
  +
  +
<p class="b-tariff__header">Its only benefit is a better default data rate with 2.50 RUB per MB in home region and 9.90 RUB elsewhere (with hourly rounding to 150 KB)! So you should better buy a data pack.</p>
  +
  +
<p class="b-tariff__header">This plan also allows calling and texting, but the price for all calls is bad. It's a good idea to choose any other plan in many cases instead.</p>
   
 
===='''Data feature packages'''====
 
===='''Data feature packages'''====
For all SIMs the same data packs are available, only default rate differs. They offer this daily pack:
+
For all plans above the same monthly data packs are available:
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{| class="article-table"
*Internet 24 (Интернет 24): 200 MB, 24 hours, 24 Rub, activation: *105*264#
 
  +
|+'''MegaFon Internet Packages '''(for Moscow region cards)
This pack is national, overuse with standard pack is charged with 0.5 Rub/MB. Max. speed is 3 MBps. Pack renews itself automatically. To deactivate type *105*264*0.
 
* Bit Pro (БИТ PRO): 80 MB, 24 hours, 9 Rub, activation: *105*276#
 
This pack is for the Moscow region only. Speed will be throttled beyond 80MB/day to 64 kbps.
 
*monthly packages (except XS):
 
{| cellpadding="1" cellspacing="1" border="1"
 
! scope="col" |Интернет
 
! scope="col" |Price
 
! scope="col" |Data Volume
 
! scope="col" |Coverage
 
! scope="col" |Activation
 
! scope="col" |Deactivation
 
 
|-
 
|-
  +
!
|Internet XS
 
  +
Pack
| style="text-align: right; " |7 Rub/day
 
  +
!Fee
| style="text-align: right; " |70 MB / day
 
  +
!Data (month)
| style="text-align: right; " |domestic
 
  +
!Remarks
| style="text-align: right; " |*236*0#
 
  +
!Activation
| style="text-align: right; " |*236*0*0#
 
 
|-
 
|-
  +
|S
|Internet S
 
  +
|400 RUB
| style="text-align: right; " |350 Rub
 
  +
|5 GB
| style="text-align: right; " |3 GB
 
  +
|smartphones and tablets only,
| style="text-align: right; " |national
 
  +
| style="text-align: right; " |*236*1#
 
  +
not valid in modems and routers
| style="text-align: right; " |*236*1*0#
 
  +
|*236*2*1#
 
|-
 
|-
  +
|M
|Internet M
 
  +
|550 RUB
| style="text-align: right; " |690 Rub
 
  +
|12 GB
| style="text-align: right; " |16 GB
 
  +
|for all devices
| style="text-align: right; " |national
 
  +
|*236*3*1#
| style="text-align: right; " |*236*2#
 
| style="text-align: right; " |*236*2*0#
 
 
|-
 
|-
  +
|L
|Internet L
 
  +
|900 RUB
| style="text-align: right; " |890 Rub
 
  +
|20 GB
| style="text-align: right; " |36 GB
 
  +
|For all devices
| style="text-align: right; " |national
 
  +
|*236*4*1#
| style="text-align: right; " |*236*3#
 
| style="text-align: right; " |*236*3*0#
 
 
|-
 
|-
|Internet XL
+
|XL
  +
|1300 RUB
| style="text-align: right; " |1290 Rub
 
  +
|30 GB
| style="text-align: right; " |unlimited
 
  +
|for modems only
| style="text-align: right; " |national
 
  +
unlimited nightly data (1am-7am)
| style="text-align: right; " |*236*4#
 
  +
|*236*5*1#
| style="text-align: right; " |*236*4*0#
 
 
|}
 
|}
All packages have full 4G speed where available, throttled to 64 kbps when quota is reached. You can check data volume by typing *925# You can buy the packs S-XL for 3 months with 10% discount, for 6 months with 20% discount and for 12 month for 30% discount.
+
All packages have full 4G/LTE speed, where available. Dial *558# to check remaining data volume. Unlimited nightly data bonus is valid from 1am-7am Moscow time (GMT+03:00).
  +
  +
All packages auto-renew, if not stopped by *236*00# (dial *236*00#, press "call" button, then reply with "1" to confirm the package de-activation).
  +
  +
For more data, you can add an extension pack ("Продли скорость"):
  +
* 70 MB for a day: 19 RUB: - activation: *372#
  +
* 1 GB: 175 RUB - activation: *370*1*1#
  +
* 5 GB: 400 RUB - activation: *370*2*1#
  +
Extra data is only valid for the remaining time of the base package.
  +
  +
You can disable all active Internet Packs by dialing *236*00*1#.
  +
  +
==== '''Combo plans - "Connect!" series ("Включайся'''!'''")''' ====
  +
MegaFon has changed its portfolio and discontinued the All (Всё) combo plans. Their new combos are called "Connect!" (Включайся!) and are now valid nationwide:
  +
{| class="article-table"
  +
!Package
  +
!Monthly fee
  +
!Data
  +
!Voice
  +
!Extras
  +
!Activation
  +
|-
  +
|"Пиши" Write
  +
|400 RUB
  +
|3 GB
  +
|300 mins
  +
|Messengers*, 300 SMS
  +
|*789*2#
  +
|-
  +
|"Говори" Talk
  +
|500 RUB
  +
|4 GB
  +
|700 mins
  +
|Messengers*
  +
|*789*4#
  +
|-
  +
|"Слушай" Listen
  +
|500 RUB
  +
|15 GB
  +
|300 mins
  +
|Messengers*, Music***
  +
|*789*3#
  +
|-
  +
|"Общайся"
  +
Communicate
  +
|600 RUB
  +
|15 GB
  +
|600 mins
  +
|Messengers*,
  +
Social Media**
  +
|*789*5#
  +
|-
  +
|"Смотри" Watch
  +
|750 RUB
  +
|20 GB
  +
|750 mins
  +
| rowspan="3" |Messengers*,
  +
Social Media**,
  +
  +
20 GB for YouTube,
  +
  +
Free TV pack
  +
|*789*6#
  +
|-
  +
|"Смотри+" Watch+
  +
|1000 RUB
  +
|30 GB
  +
|1500 mins
  +
|*789*8#
  +
|-
  +
|"Премиум"
  +
Premium
  +
|3000 RUB
  +
|20 GB
  +
|5000 mins
  +
|*789*7#
  +
|}
  +
* '''*Messengers''' pack includes unlimited WhatsApp, Viber, eMotion, Telegram and Facebook Messenger;
  +
*
  +
**'''Social Media''' pack includes free Facebook, Instagram, VK.com (VKontakte), OK.ru (Odnoklassniki);
  +
*
  +
***'''Music''' pack gives free [http://boom.ru/ BOOM], [https://zvooq.com/ Zvooq] and [https://music.yandex.ru/ Yandex.Music] traffic (only free traffic, no free subscription included).
  +
* All packages include unlimited calls within MegaFon network.
  +
All data allowances are valid all over Russia except Magadan, Sakhalin island, Yakutia, Chukotka, Kamchatka peninsula, Norilsk city, Taymyr region, [[Crimean Peninsula|Crimea peninsula and Sevastopol]], where the basic data rate 9.9 RUB per MB is active.
  +
  +
Check remaining allowances by '''*558#''', check your current plan by dialing '''*105*3#'''. When data is used up, you can activate an extension pack mentioned above at Data feature packages.
   
  +
Beware than when you get a new SIM with this plan or switch to it, you only pay half of the price but get only half of the allowance for 15 days and get/pay the other half after 15 days
You can add further high speed volume by these extension packs:
 
*for daily rates and Internet XS: another 70 MB for 19 Rub valid for the rest of the days.
 
*for monthly packs S-L: 1 GB for 150 Rub. or 5 GB for 400 Rub valid for the rest of the month.
 
Activation is by typing *925*3#
 
* <p class="p-roaming-solution__title">Domestic-only data packages can be extended nationwide by the Internet Russia (Интернет по России) option for a setup price of 30 Rub and an additional daily fee of 5 Rub for Internet XS and 10 Rub for other domestic tariffs. So you better buy a national package, if you travel within Russia.</p>
 
   
 
===='''More info'''====
 
===='''More info'''====
*APN: internet
+
*APN: internet (It should work with any other APN settings too).
 
*All given prices are valid for Moscow only, other rates may apply in other regions.
 
*All given prices are valid for Moscow only, other rates may apply in other regions.
 
*Basic website in [http://english.moscow.megafon.ru/ English]
 
*Basic website in [http://english.moscow.megafon.ru/ English]
 
*Extended website in [http://moscow.megafon.ru/ Russian] only
 
*Extended website in [http://moscow.megafon.ru/ Russian] only
  +
 
=='''MTS''' (MTC)==
 
=='''MTS''' (MTC)==
  +
[[File:Mts.png|thumb|220x220px|Pre 2018 MTS Logo]]
[[File:MTC2.jpg|thumb|250px]]MTS (or MTC in Russian for Мобильные ТелеСистемы) is the biggest mobile provider in Russia what number of subscribers is concerned. It is available in most regions of the country and still gives good speeds at somewhat lower prices than MegaFon [http://en.mts.ru/coverage/coverage/ (coverage map)]. The prices below are given for the Moscow region. 3G is on 2100MHz and 900MHz. LTE is on 2600MHz in the form of both FDD-LTE and TD-LTE (Band 7 and Band 38) and on 800 and 1800 MHz..
 
  +
[[File:MTC.png|thumb|220x220px|Brand New MTS Logo]]
  +
MTS (or MTC in Russian, stands for Mobile TeleSystems, "Мобильные ТелеСистемы" owned by russian Systema group) is the biggest mobile provider in Russia by the number of subscribers. It's available in most regions of the country and gives good speeds at somewhat lower prices than MegaFon [http://en.mts.ru/coverage/coverage/ (coverage map)].
  +
  +
There are some plans and bundles that work even on the [[Crimean Peninsula]] on Win Mobile. The prices below are given for the Moscow region. MTS is associated with Vodafone, which is also their favorite roaming partner. Nevertheless, MTS roaming prices in foreign countries are very high.
  +
  +
3G is on 2100 MHz and 900 MHz. LTE is on 2600 MHz in the form of both FDD-LTE and TDD-LTE (on bands 7 and 38) and on 800 and 1800 MHz. 4G/LTE coverage has reached all 83 regions where MTS operates in 2016. 55% is on 1800 MHz, the others on 800 and 2600 MHz.
  +
  +
Unlike other operators, MTS blocks incoming calls from many VoIP networks [https://forum.zadarma.com/index.php?showtopic=3564 (example in Russian)], as they are considered illegal.
 
===='''Availability'''====
 
===='''Availability'''====
SIM cards are available in mini- or micro size at their stores [http://en.mts.ru/coverage/offices/ (shop locations)]. Their standard prepaid voice and data SIM cards are called Super MTS (Супер МТС) for 100 Rub. or Red Energy for 150 Rub. Both differ in voice but have the hight default data rate of 9.90 Rub. per MB. So add packages.
+
SIM cards are available in mini-, micro- and nano-size at their branded stores [http://en.mts.ru/coverage/offices/ (shop locations)]. You can also find them at cellphone shops, dealers, or in other electronics shops. All new SIM cards come in 3-in-1 (triple cut) size now - no need to cut.
  +
  +
SIM card expires after 90 days of inactivity (NB: I was told six months). To extend this term, make a call or send a text message. There is no way to see how many days are remaining. However, it is possible to put your account on hold for 1 rub/day to suspend all tariff plan charges and keep the SIM active longer. Dial *111*157# and then reply with "1" to activate Voluntary Blocking ("добровольная блокировка"). Unblocking must be done [https://lk.mts.ru/settings/numbers online] or at an MTS location if the SIM is registered in your name. 
  +
  +
You can [https://www.prepaid.com/ top-up online] by international credit card or PayPal with 3rd party agency or by buying vouchers in Russia. To check your account balance, dial *100# (in Russian) or #100# (in English) for free. To check last 5 charges in 3 days dial *152*1#.
  +
  +
==== '''Removing foisted options''' ====
  +
To avoid unnecessary charges, please ensure that all foisted paid options turned off. MTS often activates them without your permit - as a promotion, to let you try, or something else. Dial the deactivation sequence and press the "call" button. You should receive an SMS for confirmation that service is disabled:
  +
* '''GOOD'OK: '''Plays RBT (ring-back tone) music and ads when calling - removal: *111*29#
  +
* '''You've got a call ("Вам звонили!"): '''Missed call notice - removal: *111*38#
  +
* '''MTS Radio:''' plays audio ads when making outgoing calls - removal: *567*0#
  +
* '''MTS Ads:''' SMS newsletter with ads - removal: *111*374#
  +
  +
==== '''Prepaid voice plans (Тарифы для звонков)''' ====
  +
Prepaid plans have no monthly fee. You will pay only for used services (per each minute of call, per each SMS, per each MB of mobile data). Data is not included and at a high 9.90 RUR per MB:
  +
* '''Super MTS (Супер МТС): '''Probably the best voice plan available for time-to-time calling. Main advantage of this plan are unlimited outgoing calls to other MTS numbers of same region per day and [http://static.mts.ru/uploadmsk/contents/1655/perechen_gorodskix_nomerov_moskvu.pdf most] of Moscow landline numbers plus 100 MB. Starter price: 100 RUR or change to this tariff by *111*8888# for 150 RUB.
  +
  +
* '''Your country (Твоя Страна): '''Good plan for calls to another regions of Russia, CIS ans some Asian countries (China, Vietnam). Useless for calling to another coutries, no discounts for EU, GB, USA. Change to this by *111*741# for 150 RUB.
  +
  +
* '''Red Energy: '''1.6 RUB per min for all calls inside the region. Starter price: 150 RUB, change by *111*727#
  +
  +
These monthly options can be added to all prepaid voice plans mentioned above for internet access:
  +
* '''BIT '''(БИТ): daily 75 MB data for 200 RUB per month. For additional data 50 MB packs at 8 RUB are added automatically. A day is from midnight in the associated time zone. Activation: *111*252#
  +
* '''SuperBIT ('''СуперБИТ): 3 GB data for 350 RUB per month. For additional data 500 MB packs at 75 RUB are added automatically. Activation: *111*628#.
  +
* '''Online''' (ВСети): a social media plan for 4 RUB per day giving unlimited access to VКontakte, Odnoklassniki, Facebook, FB Messenger, Instagram, <s>Telegram</s>, Skype, WhatsApp, Viber, Twitter, Snapchat and Twitch; activation: *345#; deactivation: *111*345*2#.
  +
* '''Internet 4 Mbit/s''' (Интернет 4 Мбит/сек.): slow unlimited internet plan throttled to 4 Mbit/s for streaming devices with unlimited internet at 750 RUB per month. If tethering is detected, speed will be further throttled to 512 kbit/s. Can't be combined with an Mini, Maxi or VIP package. Activation through [http://internet.mts.ru internet.mts.ru]
  +
{| class="article-table"
  +
!Package
  +
!Fee
  +
!Data
  +
!Activation
  +
!Overuse
  +
|-
  +
|Internet Mini
  +
|500 RUB
  +
|7 GB
  +
|*160#
  +
|500 MB: 75 RUB
  +
|-
  +
|Internet Maxi
  +
|800 RUB
  +
|15 GB (#)
  +
|ВСети
  +
|1 GB: 150 RUB
  +
|-
  +
|Internet VIP
  +
|1200 RUB
  +
|30 GB (#)
  +
|*162#
  +
|3 GB: 350 RUB
  +
|}
  +
Note, that data are valid all over Russia, but outside your home region still a surcharge of 50 RUB per day is added. (#) = these packages are unlimited at night (0-7am). 
  +
  +
Activation is by code, app or online. Remaining data volume can be checked by dialing *217#. All packages auto-renew after 30 days. To deactivate type activation code and replace # by *2#. 
  +
==== '''Smartphone plans (Для смартфона)''' ====
  +
Smart series offers combo plans with a monthly fee with included calls, SMS and data. Often it's a better choice than adding a data pack to regular voice plan. Big advantage of this plans is their nationwide availability (valid in all regions, not only in domestic area and on the Crimea too).
  +
  +
Monthly fee is deducted from your account balance at the moment of plan activation. The next debit will be exactly 30 days after the date of activation. If your account balance is not sufficient for next monthly fee, all services (voice and data) will be temporarily suspended. To unblock, recharge your account.
  +
  +
These plans are only for smartphones and tablets usage. Using them in modems or mobile routers is prohibited with a warning message displayed. MTS detects most used modems and routers by their IMEI number and blocks the mobile data usage in such devices. However, tethering is not blocked and confirmed as usable on these plans:
  +
{| class="article-table"
  +
|+Prices valid for Moscow region
  +
|-
  +
!Plan
  +
!Price
  +
!Data
  +
!Calls
  +
!SMS
  +
!Activation
  +
|-
  +
|Smart
  +
|400 RUB
  +
|5 GB
  +
|200 mins (national)
  +
|550
  +
|*111*1024#
  +
|-
  +
|Our Smart
  +
|1000 RUB
  +
|25 GB #
  +
|1500 mins (national)
  +
|1500
  +
|*111*1025#
  +
|-
  +
|Smart Top
  +
|1950 RUB
  +
|unlimited
  +
|3000 mins (national)
  +
|3000
  +
|*111*1026#
  +
|-
  +
|Ultra
  +
|2900 RUB
  +
|unlimited
  +
|5000 mins (national)
  +
|5000
  +
|*111*777#
  +
|-
  +
|Hype (Хайп)
  +
|500 RUB
  +
|7 GB +
  +
soc.media
  +
|100 mins (on-net)
  +
|200
  +
|*111*1010#
  +
|-
  +
|My Smart
  +
Мойm Smart
  +
|500 RUB
  +
525 RUB
  +
  +
625 RUB
  +
|10 GB
  +
15 GB
  +
  +
20 GB
  +
| colspan="2" | 200 mins (nat), 200 SMS included
  +
400 mins (nat), 400 SMS + 25 RUB
  +
  +
600 mins (nat), 600 SMS + 75 RUB
  +
|*111*3888#
  +
|-
  +
|Tariff
  +
Тарифище
  +
|585 RUB
  +
720 RUB
  +
  +
945 RUB
  +
  +
1395 RUB
  +
|unlimited
  +
|500 mins (nat.)
  +
800 mins (nat.)
  +
  +
1500 mins (nat.)
  +
  +
3000 mins (nat.)
  +
|500
  +
800
  +
  +
1500
  +
  +
3000
  +
|*111*1115#
  +
|}
  +
All Smart plans include unlimited calls to other MTS Russia numbers. (#) = Our Smart enables to share these data with up to 5 numbers.
  +
  +
Social media in the Hype plan includes unlimited use of VKontakte''',''' Odnoklassniki, Facebook, Twitter, Skype, <s>Telegram,</s> WhatsApp, Viber, Snapchat, YouTube, МТS Music, Apple Music, Google Music, Zvooq, App Store, Google Play, МТS Connect and some games.
  +
  +
To check the remaining data, SMS and minutes, dial *100*1#'''. '''To check balance, dial *100#. For overuse on the Smart mini plan 95 RUB per 500 MB are charged up to 15 times, on Smart plan 75 RUB per 500 MB and on other plans 150 RUB per 1 GB.
   
  +
For more data you can better add one of these add-on packages for 30 days:
Furthermore MTS sells prepaid data SIMs called MTS Connect-4 (МТС Коннект-4) for 600 Rub. with the same credit loaded. At purchase you can choose to buy the Internet Maxi pack for the credit or the daily internet option will be activated by default. All packages from Mini to VIP and the daily rate can be booked on this SIM. Default rate on this SIM is a much lower 1.5 Rub. for data throughout Russia, but it has higher rates for voice and text.
 
  +
* + 3 GB: 190 RUB - activation: *111*1417*1#
  +
* + 5 GB: 250 RUB - activation: *111*1517*1#
  +
* + 10 GB: 300 RUB - activation: *111*1617*1#
  +
* + 20 GB: 350 RUB - activation: *111*1817*1#
   
===='''Data feature packs'''====
+
==== '''Data-only plans (Тарифы для интернета)''' ====
  +
* '''Tablet plan ('''Тариф Для планшета): data plan for tablets with 10 GB nationwide for a month at 550 RUB. Overuse is charged at high 95 RUB per 500 MB.
*MiniBIT (МиниБИТ): automatically booked on the voice prepaid cards. 20 Rub. domestic or 40 Rub. nationwide per day (3am-3am) for 10 MB. Activation by *111*62# and 1. Deactivation by *111*62# and 2. Internet is cut off when quota is reached. For another 20 minutes type *165# for 19 Rub. or for another 100 MB type *111*05# for 30 Rub.
 
  +
* '''Laptop plan''' (Тариф Для ноутбука): data plan for routers and dongles in mobile computers at 800 RUB with unlimited data at 800 RUB throttled to 4 Mbit/s.
*BIT (БИТ): 75 MB per day (3am-3am) domestic (in Moscow only) for 200 Rub. Full up to 4G speed, then throttled to 64 kbps. Activation by *252#, deactivation by *252*0#  Same extensions as MiniBit.
 
  +
* '''Smart Device plan''' (Тариф Умное устройство): data plan for IoT and other devices at 670 RUB for the 1st year including 300 MB internet, 30 mins (regional and on-net) and 30 SMS.
*SmartBIT (СуперБИТ): 3GB per month nationwide for 350 Rub. Full up to 4G speed, then throttled to 128 kbps. Activation by *628#, deactivation by *111*628*2#  Same extensions as MiniBit.
 
  +
* ['''<s>MTS-Connect 4 </s>'''<s>(МТС Коннект-4): data plan aimed at modems only in combination with an USB dongle or WiFi hotspot router.</s> No longer available for third-party (i.e. non-operator-locked) modems.]
*Internet Mini (Интернет-Mini): the same tariff as SmartBIT. Activation and deactivation: *111*160#.
 
*Internet Maxi (Интернет-Maxi): Unlimted domestic data (in Moscow) and 12 GB nationwide per month for 700 Rub. For activation type *111*161#.
 
*Internet VIP (Интернет-VIP): unlimited domestic data and 30 GB nationwide per month for 1200 Rub. For activation type *111*166#.
 
*For Internet Mini, Maxi, VIP and the daily rate 3 addons are available: another 500 MB for 75 Rub by *167#, 2 GB for 200 Rub by *168# and unlimited nights (1am-7am) for 150 Rub by *111*776#.
 
All data volume can be checked by *217#, balance check is *100#.  SMS to 111 is free of charge.
 
   
 
===='''More info'''====
 
===='''More info'''====
*APN: internet.mts.ru
+
*APN: internet.mts.ru - It works with any settings
 
*Tethering is officially allowed
 
*Tethering is officially allowed
*Extended Website (Rus): http://www.mts.ru/
+
*Extended website (in Russian): http://www.mts.ru/
*Basic Website (Eng): http://www.mtsgsm.com/
+
*Basic website (in English): http://www.mtsgsm.com/
  +
  +
=='''Beeline (Билайн)'''==
  +
[[File:Beeline-RUS.png|thumb|220x220px|Beeline logo with Russian]]
  +
Beeline is the 3rd operator in the country at the moment owned by [https://www.vimpelcom.com/ Veon (formerly Vimpelcom Group)]. Beeline works in almost all regions of Russia, their 3G coverage is concentrated in populated places, but still limited in rural areas. 4G/LTE coverage is available in 246 cities in 58 regions covering roughly half of the Russian population in 2016. Check the coverage map: there are still some black spots mainly at the far east [http://moskva.beeline.ru/customers/beeline-on-map/ (coverage map)].
  +
[[File:Beeline.svg.png|thumb|151x151px|Beeline logo with English]]
  +
Nowadays, Beeline's 2G network is sensibly degraded. There are some voice calls clarity and data transfer speed issues, related to the signal strength and coverage. However, this operator provides good rates for international calling, especially to CIS countries where Beeline own and partner networks are available.
  +
  +
Prices below are given for Moscow region. For 4G/LTE access, make sure your device supports Beeline's LTE bands (on 2600, 1800 and 800 MHz).
  +
  +
==== '''General information''' ====
  +
All SIM cards are valid for 3 months (89 days) since the date of the last chargeable usage. There is no way to see how many days are remaining. To prevent blocking and save your number, you should make any paid action at least once every 3 months by sending a text message or making an outgoing call.
  +
  +
You can recharge your number with your credit card or via PayPal using 3rd part top-up agencies like [https://www.ding.com/ this service] for a surcharge. Lots of EU, US, UK and CIS countries credit cards are accepted (Visa or MasterCard).
  +
  +
To check your balance, dial *102# for free. The balance is displayed on your phone screen. On some plans the more common combination *100# also works.
   
=='''Beeline'''==
 
[[File:Beeline(2)-1-.jpg|thumb|300px]]Beeline is the 3rd operator in the country giving the best rates at the moment. It is owned by Dutch-based Vimpelcom Ltd. with network coverage of 97% of Russia's population. Their 3G coverage is concentrated in densely populated areas, but very limited in rural areas and 4G in about a dozen major towns. But check for coverage first, as they don't have licenses in some areas in the far east: [http://moskva.beeline.ru/customers/beeline-on-map/?lon=50.26154017062741&lat=49.32038645655701&zoom=5&tab=coverage&coverage=coverage_filter_3g_email& (coverage map)]. Prices below are given for Moscow. For 4G/LTE make sure your device supports Beeline's LTE bands (2600,1800 and 800 MHz).
 
 
===='''Availability'''====
 
===='''Availability'''====
   
Just get any prepaid SIM card (you can buy it at any Cell Shops, which are plenty in big cities like Euroset, Sviaznoy and many other) for a start up price of about 150 Rub. Some shops may charge you 10-20% commission, but are easier to register your SIM. You can get any prepaid line without preloaded data or voice time like "Without doubt" (Ноль сомнений) or Go!. You need to activate the SIM by typing *101*1111#  Prepaid data rate is a default 9.95 to 12 Rub per MB nationwide. To activate data, type *110*181#.
+
Just get any prepaid SIM card (you can buy it at Beeline offices, cellphone shops like "Euroset" ("Евросеть"), Sviaznoy ("Связной"), "Know-How" ("Ноу-Хау") and many others for a start up price of about 100-200 RUR without preloaded credits or with 50-150 RUB preloaded. Some shops sell cards at higher price (charging you 10-20% more), but they will help you to register your SIM card. Also you can buy it on eBay or try to find in the kiosks or at the streets (dealer stands).
  +
===='''Data feature packs'''====
 
  +
You can buy a new SIM card with one of their prepaid plans or change to this plan by dialling a code:
To book a data package, you first have to change your SIM card to the Simple Internet (Простой интернет) tariff line, as its the only way to add data packages. This can be done free from any Beeline SIM by typing *100*600#
 
  +
* '''Zero doubts''' ("Ноль сомнений"): main Beeline prepaid plan for phones without monthly fee. Nothing included except an initial preloaded credits (in most often cases 50..200 RUB). This plan is good only for calling to other Beeline numbers. To switch to this tariff dial 0674000999.
  +
* '''Per second''' ("Посекундный"): very rare in stock, without monthly fee. This plan is relatively good for calling other local numbers as it offers per second billing. However, its rates aren't very good. To switch to this tariff dial 0674100200.
  +
The only package for data on these two plans above is their expensive 1.5 GB pack for the month which will be auto-enabled as soon as you use more than 1 MB. It's for 240 RUB, but debited as 8 RUB per day.
  +
* '''All!''' ("Всё!"): most widely sold combo plans with monthly fee and included bundles, for details see below.
  +
For tablets, routers and modems they offer data-focused plans, that include voice calls and SMS at a higher rate:
  +
* '''Gigabyte '''(Гигабайт): This data plan is very good for travelling as it's valid all over Russia. 1 GB is sold at 100 RUB and you can buy as many packs as you like. Change by *110*0512#
  +
* '''Internet for tablets ('''Интернет для планшета): This plan for tablets includes 10 GB per month at 550 RUB. Change by *110*1024#. For more data Gigabyte (see above) packs can be added.
  +
* '''Internet for computers ('''Интернет для компьютера): This plan for modems includes 25 GB per month at 1200 RUB. Change by *110*2048#. For more data Gigabyte (see above) packs can be added.
  +
* '''Signal''' (Сигнал): This plan is for M2M devices like GPS routers or alarm systems. It has a flat fee of 1 RUB per day and 2 RUB per MB.
  +
All Highway internet packages have been discontinued.
  +
  +
==== '''Special offer for the World Cup''' ====
  +
Like MegaFon Beeline has issued a special tariff for visitors of the World Cup in June/July 2018 called '''Welcome!''' The offer includes unlimited mobile internet at up to 3.6 Mbps and 30 minutes of outgoing calls to Russia and most foreign countries. Incoming calls are free. Subscribers pay 700 RUB for the first 14 days at activation and additional weeks cost 350 RUB each. More info about this plan in English can be found [https://moskva.beeline.ru/en-us/welcome/general-information/ here].
  +
  +
==== '''"All!" Combo plans (тарифы серии "Всё!")''' ====
  +
Like MTS, Beeline has monthly combo plans with included allowances of voice calls, SMS and data valid all over Russia:
  +
{| class="article-table"
  +
|+Monthly Beeline combo plans "ALL!" (Moscow region)
  +
|-
  +
!Plan
  +
!Fee/month
  +
!charged
  +
! colspan="2" style="text-align: center;" ; |Calling time included
  +
!SMS
  +
!Data
  +
!Activation
  +
|-
  +
| colspan="2" |
  +
|per day
  +
!to Beeline
  +
!Other dom. calls
  +
|
  +
|
  +
|
  +
|-
  +
|All 1
  +
|400 RUB
  +
|13.33 RUB
  +
|300 mins
  +
|
  +
|300
  +
|3 GB
  +
|0674000111
  +
|-
  +
|All 2
  +
|600 RUB
  +
|20 RUB
  +
|unlimited
  +
|500 mins
  +
|300
  +
|15 GB
  +
|0674000222
  +
|-
  +
|All 3
  +
|900 RUB
  +
|30 RUB
  +
|unlimited
  +
|1200 mins
  +
|300
  +
|22 GB
  +
|0674000333
  +
|-
  +
|All 4
  +
|1500 RUB
  +
|50 RUB
  +
|unlimited
  +
|2000 mins national
  +
|300
  +
|30 GB
  +
|0674000444
  +
|-
  +
|All 5
  +
|2500 RUB
  +
|83.3 RUB
  +
|unlimited
  +
|5000 mins
  +
|300
  +
|30 GB
  +
|0674000555
  +
|}
  +
When data volume is used up, the "auto-renewal rate" will be charged: 100 MB for 50 RUB. In this case it may be better to add a Highway pack. Beeline's "All" plans renew automatically every 30 days.
  +
  +
At the Beeline store be sure to get a prepaid ("предоплата"), '''not '''a postpaid ("постоплата") plan that sales agents may try to sell to you. Watch out, as both plan types bear the same name and like in English both words look similar.
  +
  +
==== '''Internet sharing option''' ====
  +
Beeline offers an option which allows you to share the included data allowance in the "All" combo plans with other Beeline users of same region, not to be mixed up with tethering. So if you have 2 or more Beeline SIM cards from the same region you can share one "All" combo package with other user without paying for 2nd "All" bundle.
   
  +
Certain limitations apply: You can share your internet allowance only on "All 3", "All 4" and "All 5" packages. You can select 1, 2 or 3 additional numbers for sharing your package. Adding each shared user increases the monthly fee to 150 RUB (5 RUB daily). To add the user to your "group", it should be the Beeline customer of same region. The other number selected for sharing can only use your data pack, while calling and texting not. It's often better to buy a smaller separate package for other SIM card instead of using this feature.
For Simple Internet these monthly data packages are available, they call Highway (Хайвей):
 
*1 GB, 200 Rub, domestic only!, first 7 days are free, activation: 777, dactivation: 7770.
 
*3 GB, 350 Rub, nationwide, activation: *115*061#, deactivation: *115*060#
 
*Highway 7: 7 GB, 550 Rub., nationwide, activation: *115*07#, deactivation: *115*070#
 
*Highway 15: 15 GB, 850 Rub., nationwide, activation: *115*08#, deactivation: *115*080#
 
*Highway 30: 30 GB, 1150 Rub, nationwide, activation: *115*09#, deactivation: *115*090#
 
Speed is up to 4G/LTE where available. The lager packs are valid nationwide, not only domestic. Packages renew themselves after 1 month, if not deactivated. When data quota is reached, you will be charged 20 Rub. for every 200 MB. If you want to be throttled instead, type *115*230# and speed will be reduced to 64 kbps. Default rate outside of packages in the Simple Internet line is 3.30 Rub for 20 MB per day.
 
   
You can check balances by typing *102#
 
 
===='''More info'''====
 
===='''More info'''====
 
*APN: internet.beeline.ru
 
*APN: internet.beeline.ru
Line 156: Line 580:
 
*Basic website in [http://moskva.beeline.ru/en-us/customers/products/mobile/roaming/for-guests/general-information/ English]
 
*Basic website in [http://moskva.beeline.ru/en-us/customers/products/mobile/roaming/for-guests/general-information/ English]
 
*Extended website in [http://moskva.beeline.ru/customers/products/ Russian]
 
*Extended website in [http://moskva.beeline.ru/customers/products/ Russian]
=='''Tele2''' (with Rostelecom)==
 
   
  +
=='''Tele2 ('''by '''Rostelecom)'''(Теле2, Ростелеком)==
[[File:Tele2.jpg|thumb|250px]]In 2014 Swedish Tele2 group finalized their joint venture with Rostelecom, that used to be the 4th largest provider in the country. The name Rostelecom has been dropped and the new company will use the Tele2 brand. It operates in about 40 regions of Russia (written in Latin letters [http://en.tele2.ru/regions/list/ here]). So their coverage is still patchy [http://en.tele2.ru/regions/coverage/ (coverage map]) as they don't have licenses for some areas. The most notable black spot in the European part is Moscow, where there is no coverage at all. So if you go to Moscow, look for the other operators instead. That's why prices are given not for Moscow, but St. Petersburg. Tele2's LTE is on 2300 MHz Band 40 (TD-LTE), not as common as 2600 MHz (Band 7) and 800 MHz (Band 20) LTE networks in Russia and Band 40 is not common on many devices outside of asia so check to make sure your phone supports this network!
 
  +
  +
[[File:Tele2.jpg|thumb|250px|Tele2 logo]]In 2014 Swedish Tele2 group ceased all operations in Russia and sold their brand and network to state-owned Rostelecom, that used to be the 4th largest provider in the country. It operates in 67 of 85 regions of Russia (written in Latin letters [http://en.tele2.ru/regions/list/ here]). So their coverage is still very patchy [http://en.tele2.ru/regions/coverage/ (coverage map]) as they don't have licenses for some areas.
  +
  +
Tele2 Russia commercially launched LTE on 1800 MHz (B3) in 2014 and rollouts in most major cities began throughout 2015. Further LTE networks have been launched on B7 (2600 MHz) and B20 (800 MHz), with smaller LTE-TDD deployments over B40 (2300 MHz) primarily in Krasnodar and Sochi districts. The company commercially launched B31 (450 MHz) LTE under the SkyLink banner in May 2016, initially in regional areas and gradually expanding to cover St. Petersburg and Moscow within the same year.
  +
  +
There is a notable "black spot" for 2G in the European part of Russia in Moscow. Tele2 started to work in Moscow in October 2015. They decided to build only a 3G/4G network here and there is no roaming on other 2G networks and no future plans for 2G coverage (GSM 900/1800) within Moscow area. With a 90% coverage, there are still some coverage gaps in Moscow.
  +
  +
If you try to use a Tele2 SIM card from another region in Moscow now, it will go to roaming, registering in 3G/4G network of Tele2 or in 2G with other networks, but for Moscow regional users only native Tele2 3G/4G network is available.
  +
  +
==== '''General information''' ====
  +
All SIM cards are valid for 4 months (120 days) since the date of last usage (making a paid call or sending a text message). There is no way to see how many days remaining. To prevent blocking and save your number, you should make any paid action at least once in 4 months - write a text message or make an outgoing call. Writing a text to yourself is the easiest way.
  +
  +
To check the account balance, dial *105# and press "call" button - you will see the actual balance on the screen. To recharge online, try [http://payments.tele2.ru/ this website]. Not all credit cards accepted.
  +
 
===='''Availability'''====
 
===='''Availability'''====
Unlike the other operators Tele2 doesn't have shops but only sells their SIM cards [http://spb.tele2.ru/ online] to be sent to a local address. You can arrange a pick up point and delivery within St. Pertersburg is max. 2 days. Independed vendors will resell their SIM cards in electronic or cell phone shops for a small surcharge. Start up price is 100-500 Rub. depending on number.
+
There are some small Tele2 branded retail shops. You can buy Tele2 SIM cards in their retail stores, at the distribution points in some malls and at the railway stations, or using their [http://spb.tele2.ru/ online] store with free delivery to a local address. You can arrange a pick up point or use the free delivery service within the city (Moscow and St. Petersburg) in a max. of 2 days. Independent dealers resell their SIM cards in electronic or cell phone shops for a small surcharge. Start-up price is 100-500 RUB depending on number and start-up plan.
===='''Start-up'''====
 
Their different prepaid tariff lines have different colours like yellow, orange or green. Every colour or tariff line can be changed to another. Data stays mostly at a default 6.50 Rub. per MB on the tariffs without start-up data. They sell two tariff lines with data from the start:
 
* Black (черный) : including 1 GB per month: 4.90 Rub per day. Speed will be throttled to 64 kbps beyond, change to this tariff by typing *630*1#
 
* Very Black (очень черный): including 3.5 GB per month: 290 Rub per month. Speed will be throttled to 64 kbps beyond, change to this tariff by typing *630*2#
 
Note, that the feature packs below except the add volume or time packs are not available on the black lines.
 
   
  +
In summer 2019 Tele2 started as first operator to sell eSIMs for their plans. Compatible phones can load one of their plans below on their profile. You should better go to a Tele2 store and speak good Russian language, if you are not famlliar with the process.
==== '''Data feature packs''' ====
 
  +
===='''Prepaid plans'''====
These packs below can be booked on the tariffs without start-up data. So not on black and very black, but on all others and are valid nationwide. They have these daily options:
 
  +
Tele2 recently updated all their prepaid plans. The main advantage of the new plans is a roll-over of unused data and voice allowances to the next month. You can switch between plans any time for 40 RUR per each change.
*"Internet-Phone-C" (Интернет c телефона): For 4.50 Rub. you get 50 MB data per day. Additional data will be billed with 1 Rub. per MB. Activation *155*31#, deactivation *155*30# . Every activation costs 10 Rub., deactivation is free. To check data status type *155*3#
 
  +
*250 MB/day, 15 Rub/day, activation fee from 2nd activation 15 Rub, activation: *155*161#, deactivation: *155*160#
 
  +
Given below are the prepaid combo plans for the Moscow region. All included allowances are valid in all over Russia (or rather all regions where Tele2's own network is available):
Furthermore, they sell these monthly packs:
 
  +
{| class="article-table" cellspacing="1" cellpadding="1" border="0" "
*5 GB, 250 Rub, activation: *155*191#, deactivation: *155*190#
 
  +
! rowspan="2" | Plan name
*10 GB, 350 Rub, activation: *155*201#, deactivation: *155*200#
 
  +
! rowspan="2" | Monthly fee
*30 GB, 450 Rub, activation: *155*211#, deactivation: *155*210#
 
  +
|-
Data packs will be throttled beyond data quota to 64 kbps. All packages auto-renew if not disabled. You can add 500 MB more for 30 Rub by typing *155*181# or 20 minutes more for 15 Rub by typing *155*171#.
 
  +
!Allowances
  +
!Activation
  +
|-
  +
|Classic
  +
Классический
  +
|free
  +
|none
  +
|default*
  +
online
  +
|-
  +
|My Tele2
  +
Мой Теле2
  +
|210 RUB (as
  +
7 RUB/day)
  +
|5 GB,
  +
social media
  +
|*630*1#
  +
|-
  +
|My Talk
  +
Мой разговор
  +
|200 RUB
  +
|2 GB,
  +
200 mins, 50 SMS
  +
|*630*2#
  +
|-
  +
|My Online
  +
Мой онлайн
  +
|400 RUB
  +
|15 GB, social media
  +
500 mins, 50 SMS
  +
|*630*3#
  +
|-
  +
|Online Everywhere
  +
Везде онлайн
  +
|500 RUB
  +
|50 GB, social media
  +
500 mins, 50 SMS
  +
|*630*6#
  +
|-
  +
|My Online +
  +
Мой онлайн +
  +
|700 RUB
  +
|30 GB, social media
  +
800 mins, 50 SMS
  +
|*630*4#
  +
|-
  +
|Unlimited
  +
Безлимит
  +
|600 RUB
  +
|unlimited data,
  +
500 mins, 50 SMS
  +
|*630*15#
  +
|-
  +
|Internet for devices
  +
Интернет для устройств
  +
|299 RUB
  +
|7 GB
  +
|*630*12#
  +
|}
  +
  +
On-net calls within Tele2 network are included unlimited. After using included data allowance, speed will be throttled to 64 kbps. All packages auto-renew, if not disabled before. All unused allowances will be rolled over to the next month, if you continue your plan.
  +
  +
Check consumption of the packages by *155*0#. Social media includes zero-rated access to Facebook, WhatsApp, Viber, TamTam, VKontakte and Odnoklassniki, except for voice and video calls using messengers.
  +
  +
(*) = changes back to the Classic plan can be made online for a 150 RUB fee.
  +
  +
==== '''Data feature packages''' ====
  +
If you don't want to use combo plans, you can add a special internet pack to the Classic plan. The Classic tariff charges 15 RUB per 10 MB. Beyond 10 MB per day the daily pack of 1 GB
  +
  +
All data packs are valid in all Tele2 regions. They offer two <u>daily</u> options:
  +
* '''Internet from Phone '''("Интернет с телефона"):
  +
** 100 MB per day for 7 RUB daily fee
  +
  +
Activation is by code *155*151# and deactivation by *155*150#. Every activation costs a 20 RUB set-up fee, while deactivation is free. To check how much of your data pack remains available, dial *155*15#
  +
* '''Network day '''("День в сети"):
  +
** 250 MB per day for 20 RUB daily fee.
  +
After using the amount included, the speed will be limited to 64 kbps. For activation: dial *155*161#, for deactivation dial *155*160#. To check how much MB of data pack remains available, dial *155*16#. First activation is free, all subsequent activations are for 50 RUB.
  +
  +
And there are also some monthly data-only packages:
  +
{| class="article-table" cellspacing="1" cellpadding="1" border="0" "
  +
|-
  +
!Data
  +
!Extras
  +
!Value
  +
!Activation
  +
!Deactivation
  +
|-
  +
|1 GB
  +
|
  +
|120 RUB
  +
|*155*702*1#
  +
|*155*702*0#
  +
|-
  +
|3 GB
  +
|
  +
|200 RUB
  +
|*155*703*1#
  +
|*155*703*0#
  +
|-
  +
|15 GB
  +
|unlimited nighttime use
  +
|400 RUB
  +
|*155*704*1#
  +
|*155*704*0#
  +
|-
  +
|15 GB
  +
|free social apps
  +
|499 RUB
  +
|*155*671#
  +
|*155*670#
  +
|-
  +
|25 GB
  +
|unlimited nighttime use
  +
|600 RUB
  +
|*155*691#
  +
|*155*690#
  +
|-
  +
|40 GB
  +
|unlimited nighttime use
  +
|900 RUB
  +
|*155*701#
  +
|*155*700#
  +
|}
  +
  +
After using the included volume, speed will be throttled to 64 kbps. All packages auto-renew if not disabled after 30 days. On all packages unused data rolls over to the next month, if a new package is bought. Nighttime use is valid midnight-7am and not debited from the data quota. Social media includes unlimited access to Facebook, VKontakte, Odnoklassniki and location services Yandex.
  +
  +
For extra data to this packs above, they have released these extension packages:
  +
{| class="article-table"
  +
!Data
  +
!Time
  +
!Price
  +
!Activation
  +
!Deactivation
  +
|-
  +
|100 MB
  +
|1 day
  +
|15 RUB
  +
|*155*281#
  +
|*155*280#
  +
|-
  +
|500 MB
  +
|1 day
  +
|50 RUB
  +
|*155*171#
  +
|*155*170#
  +
|-
  +
|1 GB
  +
|30 days
  +
|120 RUB
  +
|*155*541#
  +
|*155*540#
  +
|-
  +
|3 GB
  +
|30 days
  +
|200 RUB
  +
|*155*181#
  +
|*155*180#
  +
|-
  +
|5 GB
  +
|30 days
  +
|250 RUB
  +
|*155*231#
  +
|*155*230#
  +
|}
  +
In 2017 they have introduced their new service 'Exchange of minutes to GB'. The service enables customers to exchange minutes of voice calls under their tariffs to internet traffic. The exchange rate totals 1 min to 10.24 MB or 1 GB for 100 minutes. This option will be free for subscribers of all tariffs under the 'My Tele2' line. An unlimited amount of exchanges can be performed by this code: *155*62*<number of mins>#.
   
 
===='''More info'''====
 
===='''More info'''====
 
*APN: internet.tele2.ru
 
*APN: internet.tele2.ru
*Website in [http://spb.tele2.ru Russian] for St. Petersburg
+
*Website for Moscow: https://msk.tele2.ru/ change on top right for other regions
  +
*Support phone +7(495)979-76-11 for Moscow
 
=='''Yota '''(Йота)==
 
=='''Yota '''(Йота)==
[[File:Yota.png|thumb|203x203px]]
+
[[File:Yota.png|thumb|202x202px]]
Before 2014 Yota provided Internet access via modem based devices. After being acquired by MegaFon it was launched as a voice operator. As of Mar 2015 it operates in [https://ru.wikipedia.org/wiki/Yota#.D0.9A.D0.BE.D0.BC.D0.BF.D0.B0.D0.BD.D0.B8.D1.8F_Yota 39 regions] of Russia providing voice calls in GSM 900/1800 band and LTE 4G data in 2500-2700 MHz (band 7). It was the first operator providing fixed price across regions. The operator is marketed for people living in urban cities, smartphone owners.
+
Before 2014 Yota provided "mobile broadband" Internet access via its own WiMAX and LTE modems and routers. After being acquired by MegaFon it was relaunched as a new universal mobile operator providing voice calls on GSM 900 and 1800 MHz band and LTE 4G data on 2600 MHz (band 7). As of 2016 it covers major cities in 76 regions of Russia: [https://www.yota.ru/coverage/#/coverage coverage map]
  +
  +
Yota was the first operator in Russia providing fixed prices across all regions. But still they charge different prices depending where you buy their SIM card. The operator is targeting people living in urban cities using smartphones, tablets or modems.
  +
  +
Yota is also the only operator in Russia, who (almost) doesn’t have domestic roaming by default. Even without any additional options or packages, if you are traveling for less than a month (it is a little bit more complex, but “for a month” is a safe lower bound) all the incoming calls and data are free and for outgoing calls your minutes are valid in any region.
   
 
==== '''Availability''' ====
 
==== '''Availability''' ====
Their SIM card is available for purchase [http://www.yota.ru/voice online] , via application ([https://itunes.apple.com/ru/app/yota/id871741640 iOS], [https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=ru.yota.android Android]) or at [http://www.yota.ru/map-sales offline sales points]. The SIM card is provided for free, without any credit. Three sizes are available: standard, micro, nano. In Moscow and St. Petersburg the card is delivered for free. You will need a valid local or international passport or any other ID to obtain the card. Activation is automatic, one should insert the card and turn the data on. The balance can be topped up by credit card via smartphone application.
+
Their SIM card is available for purchase [http://www.yota.ru/voice online] , via mobile application ([https://itunes.apple.com/ru/app/yota/id871741640 iOS], [https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=ru.yota.android Android]) or at several [http://www.yota.ru/map-sales offline sales points]. The SIM card is provided for free, without any credits loaded. Three sizes are available: standard, micro, nano. In Moscow and St. Petersburg the card can be delivered to your address for free. You will need a valid local or international passport or any other personal ID to obtain the card. Activation is automatic, you should insert the card and turn on the mobile data. Balance can be topped up by credit card through their mobile app or [https://www.yota.ru/pay on the website].
   
==== '''Tariff''' ====
+
==== '''For smartphones ''' ====
  +
They are prepaid plans with a monthly fee and an included combo pack with unlimited data for some apps you choose. It's no longer possible to get an unlimited data package, though old SIM cards still work. The exact price depends on the region where the card is obtained.
The tariff cost depends on the region where the card is obtained. E.g. in Moscow it's 440 RUB and 340 RUB in St. Petersburg. In other regions it costs less. The smartphone application allows to see remaining minutes, account balance, top up and chat with support. The tariff price includes unlimited data at full speed, free incoming calls, unlimited voice calls Yota->Yota and 100 minutes per month for calls to any Russian phone in a month. SMS price is either 2.5 RUB/each or 50 RUB unlimited. The number of minutes in tariff can be initially set to more than 100 minutes/month via slider in application, in that case the tariff price changes accordingly. E.g. maximum tariff in Moscow is 1200 minutes (1590 RUB). When you become low on minutes, extra minutes can be purchased via application.
 
   
  +
For Moscow these monthly plans are sold
What they hide in their T&Cs: They ban the use of their smartphone SIM in tablets or modems. When detected, the speed drops to 128 kbps. However they offer SIM cards for tablets for data-only. The price is according to the max. speed. For unlimited use for a month in Moscow it's 390 RUB for up to 1 MBps, 590 RUB for up to 3 Mbps and 790 at full speed. In other regions, it can be up to 40% lower.
 
  +
* 6 GB: 280 RUB
  +
* 12 GB: 330 RUB
  +
* 30 GB: 380 RUB
  +
* 50 GB: 420 RUB
  +
For voice calls all over in Russia you can add 100 mins intervals for 50 RUB. For social media unlimited apps can be added: VKontakte, Instagram, Facebook, Odnoklassniki, Twitter for 25 RUB each; Viber, WhatsApp, Skype for RUR 15 each, YouTube for 60 RUB or SMS for 50 RUB.
   
  +
Their app allows to see remaining minutes, account balance, top-up and chat with support (in Russian only).
Another SIM card limitation is that Yota prohibits tethering. If you switch on tethering, the speed drops to 128 kbps. The operator determines that tethering is on via TTL, on source device it is usually 64, on destination it's 63. The workaround to use tethering is to decrement default TTL on source device, e.g. for Android 4.4+: "sysctl -w /proc/sys/net/ipv4/ip_default_ttl=63".
 
  +
  +
What they hide in their T&Cs: If the SIM-card is used other than in a smartphone (like in a router, modem or tablet), the speed will be throttled to 64 kbit/s. If your smartphone is used as a hotspot for tethering, the speed is limited to 128 kbit/s, this limitation can be removed for 2 hours at 90 RUR or for 24 hours at 190 RUR. When you use file-sharing networks, speed is limited to 32 kbit/s;
  +
  +
==== '''For tablets''' ====
  +
However, they offer special SIM cards for tablets with full 4G speed. In 2018 they discontinued all unlimited plans and give out these options:
  +
* 7 GB: 400 RUB
  +
* 15 GB: 450 RUB
  +
* 30 GB: 590 RUB
  +
Unlimited apps for a surcharge: VKontakte, Odnoklassniki, Instagram, Facebook, Twitter: + 20 RUB each, Viber, WhatsApp, Skype: + 10 RUB each and YouTube + 60 RUB.
  +
  +
If you use it in an modem, speed will be throttled to 64 kbits and for torrents to 32 kbits.
  +
  +
==== '''For modems and routers''' ====
  +
Yota also offers special plan for using with modem or router which has fully unlimited data (*with mild fair use policy with throttling the speed when using high-load and P2P applications). This is LTE-only solution (4G), without voice capabilities, only data. There is no mobile phone number assigned to this subscription.
  +
  +
You should buy their hardware (modem or router) if you want to subscribe. USB modem has built-in USIM card, so the modem is locked to your subscription. You can't use it with another operator.
  +
  +
Routers has detachable USIM card which is different from their common voice-capable smartphone SIM card. You can purchase "modem only" USIM card without their device, but you can't use their "modem card" in a smartphone or in your tablet. You can try using it in your 4G router, but this is not guaranteed. Yota recommends using their own equipment for this subscription. It can check the device ID and block unknown devices from accessing the radio network.
  +
* for 2 hours at max. speed: 50 RUB
  +
* for 24 hours at max. speed: 150 RUB
  +
* for 30 days:
  +
** @ 512 kbps: 400 RUB
  +
** @ 1 Mbps: 600 RUB
  +
** @ 5 Mbps: 900 RUB
  +
** @ 10 Mbps: 1250 RUB
  +
** @ max. speed: 1400 RUB
  +
  +
==== '''Tethering''' ====
  +
Another SIM card limitation is that Yota prohibits tethering. If you switch on tethering, the speed drops to 128 kbps. The operator determines that tethering is on by measuring the [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Time_to_live TTL] value, on source device it's usually 64, on destination it's 63.
  +
  +
The workaround to use tethering is to decrement default TTL on source device, e.g. for Android 4.4+: "sysctl -w /proc/sys/net/ipv4/ip_default_ttl=63".
   
 
==== '''More info''' ====
 
==== '''More info''' ====
*Support is provided in both Russian and English via
 
**smartphone application
 
**free SMS at 0999
 
**email: mail@yota.ru
 
**social media: [https://twitter.com/yota_help twitter][https://www.facebook.com/yota.russia facebook][https://vk.com/yota_help vk]
 
** Website in Russian: http://www.yota.ru
 
 
*APN: internet.yota
 
*APN: internet.yota
  +
*Support is provided in Russian and maybe English via their [http://www.yota.ru/support/ website], [https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=ru.yota.android mobile application], by texting free SMS to 0999, by sending an email to mail@yota.ru or through social media: [https://twitter.com/yota_help Twitter], [https://www.facebook.com/yota.russia Facebook], [https://vk.com/yota VK]
[[Category:Country]]
 
  +
*Website in Russian: http://www.yota.ru
[[Category:Beeline]]
 
  +
  +
== '''Sim Sim '''(Сим Сим) ==
  +
[[File:Simsim.jpg|thumb|144x144px]]
  +
Sim Sim is the first Russian MVNO aimed at visitors, immigrants and migrant workers to Russia established by SIM Telecom (СИМ ТЕЛЕКОМ) in 2014. Their support is supposed to be available in Tajik, Uzbek, Kyrgyz and Russian, possible in English too, but you can't take it for granted.
  +
  +
Up to 2016 it used to be independent, when it was mostly purchased by Vimpelcom, parent company of the Beeline network. That's why it uses the network of Beeline and gives like their parent IDD calls at the low rates. For their takeover in 2016, they refreshed their portfolio, but still focus on the Moscow region.
  +
  +
==== '''Availability''' ====
  +
Their SIM card is available at their stores mainly in the capital ([http://sim-sim.com/en/points/?cat=s103,s116 locator]). Top-ups can be made at their sales stores and these payment terminals mentioned [http://sim-sim.com/en/payment/ here]. They offer different plans for local, national and IDD calls, which have all the same data allowances as bundles. Note that some plans are only available for the Moscow region.
  +
  +
==== '''Data rates''' ====
  +
In all of their new tariffs data is by default at 10 RUB per MB. These data packages can be added:
  +
* Internet Start: 15 MB per day - 2.5 RUB - activation: *103*101#
  +
* Internet Mini: 50 MB per day - 5 RUB - activation: *103*102# - fee: 30 Rub.
  +
* Internet Standard: 2.5 GB per month - 250 RUB - activation: *103*103#
  +
* Internet Optimum: 5 GB per month - 400 RUB - activation: *103*104#
  +
* Internet & SMS: 1.5 GB per month and 150 regional SMS - 150 RUB - activation: *103*401#
  +
All activations are free, but of Internet Mini. General balance check is by *102#, package balance check by *100*1#. Their older packages have still different data packages, but are not available anymore for new starters.
  +
  +
==== '''More info''' ====
  +
* APN: simsim
  +
* Customer support (possibly in English): 7070
  +
  +
* Website in English: http://sim-sim.com/en/<nowiki/>[[Category:Beeline]]
 
[[Category:MTS]]
 
[[Category:MTS]]
  +
[[Category:MegaFon]]
  +
[[Category:Tele2]]
 
[[Category:Yota]]
 
[[Category:Yota]]
  +
[[Category:Europe]]
  +
[[Category:Asia]]
  +
[[Category:12/17]]

Revision as of 10:58, 27 December 2019

Ru

General

In the Russian Federation some special rules for mobile phones apply. You should check them first to avoid frustration. Basically, you can't expect anyone to speak English in this country. So you might print out the offer in Russian before to show what you want. To make it easier, the most important words are shown in Cyrillic too.

Basics

It's next to impossible to show all prices for Russia, because their pricing is immensely complex. The Russian Federation consists of 85 "federal subjects" which can be provinces, territories, federal cities or other districts and are called regions in this article. For every region even the same provider has different prices. So we only give it here for the Moscow region. They are the highest in the country; in other areas you can expect to pay less.

Living in this huge country, the residents have mostly more than one SIM card. Like in the US and China, every SIM is locked to a specified provider and region too. All calls, texts and even data traffic made outside the region lead to domestic roaming surcharges even within the same provider. Furthermore, when roaming, there are incoming charges even for calls from the same provider. So try to buy a SIM card in the region where you are going to use it most. The Russian anti-monopoly authority tries to get rid of all domestic roaming surcharges. They have announced the end for 2017, but this hasn't happened. Now in 2018 the scrapping of all roaming surcharges can be expected and "regional" prices will become the same as "national".

The complicated dialing of phone numbers within Russia is explained in detail in this wiki. To avoid any problems with Russian-style dialling, it's better to dial all numbers in international style with "+" sign and country code.

No more intra-Russian roaming charges

In autumn 2018 all intra-Russian roaming surcharges have been coming to an end. All four major mobile operators have now ceased all forms of additional charging for their own network users travelling between Russian regions. The last elements of on-net roaming fees to be cancelled were additional costs for receiving incoming domestic calls. Beeline was first to remove the incoming call charges on 20 August 2018, followed by Tele2 on 27 August, MTS on 30 August and Megafon on 1 September.

Now all allowances like data packages are valid all over Russia nationwide without additional fees. This doesn't apply to the Crimea region as there different providers operate and usage is considered as roaming.

Censorship

Have in mind that internet access to some websites is "controlled" or censored. The official targets are porn, drug abuse, suicide, pedophilia, terrorist and separatist combat organizations and copyright infringement (official black list in Russian only, unofficial Wikipedia about the situation in English), but recently major sites like LinkedIn social network and Zello voice chat have been blocked too by court order after it refused to store data in Russia. About 4000 websites are on Russia's blacklist now and one can argue, if they all fit into the given categories. In 2018 the popular messenger app Telegram was banned by court order for refusing to give Russia’s Federal Security Service (FSB) encryption keys that would grant access to user messaging data.

So you might think of installing a VPN app to safeguard anonymity. A new law enforced from November 2017 threatens to ban all VPN and proxy services in order to make sure blacklisted sites can't be accessed. All internet providers are required to block websites that offer any VPN services, while blocking all VPN traffic is technically not feasible.

Nowadays there are no technical obstacles to prevent using TOR and VPN protocols implemented. You can use PPTP, L2TP, OpenVPN, SSH and SOCKS technologies, as only few "anonymizer websites" and some popular Russian-owned public VPNs banned. Be aware of this situation and draw your own conclusions.

Networks

Russia uses European frequencies throughout its country: 2G is on 900 and 1800 MHz, 3G (up to HSPA+) on 900 and 2100 MHz mainly in the cities and 4G/LTE on 800 and 2600 MHz started in 2012/3 on all operators and is available for prepaid without surcharges in the major towns. Lately, 1800 MHz was added by all three providers. Additionally many operators also operate TD-LTE networks in the Moscow region, these are often 2600 MHz but instead of FDD-LTE (Band 7) they are on 2600 MHz TD-LTE (Band 38). Tele2's LTE (TD-LTE) is on 2300 MHz (Band 40). In 2017 the regulator released the 2100 MHz (Band 1) previously used only for 3G, to be used for 4G/LTE too.

Tele2 also runs special purpose 450 MHz 4G/LTE (band 31) network in Moscow, Saint Petersburg and Tver regions since July 2016. The main purpose of this network is to cover some rural areas with poor coverage of other frequencies. Also it's used by some government and emergency services and payphones. It's open for prepaid customers, but not recommended as it requires special equipment. There are no smartphones and tablets for this band; only some modems and routers available.

If you are looking for 4G/LTE, make sure you device supports the frequency bands. See information on each provider for details on what bands they use.

There are five national mobile network operators active in Russia:

  • MegaFon (МегаФон)
  • MTS (MTC)
  • Beeline (Билайн)
  • Tele2 (Теле2), owned and controlled by state provider Rostelecom
  • Yota (Йота), joint venture with MegaFon

MegaFon has the best nationwide coverage and good speeds in cities with about 76 million customers. It is considered by many as the premier network in the country and the first one that covered all 83 regions (except Crimea).

MTS is at present the biggest operator with about 78 million customers and it is licensed in 83 regions of the country. It is the only provider operator that can be used in Crimea.

Beeline is 3rd nationwide operator working in 78 regions with about 58 million customers. It is popular for calling to CIS countries.

Tele2 by Rostelecom is building a fourth national network active in 60 regions with about 44 million customers after they merged into a joint venture in 2014.

Yota is a virtual operator (MVNO) which is a 100% subsidiary of MegaFon. It uses MegaFon's radio access network but a separate switching and billing system. Yota's main point is fully unlimited data traffic but with some restrictions such as blocked P2P networks or tethering. Although the network is the same, you may not have access to LTE in some regions where Yota SIM cards are not sold, unlike MegaFon subscribers who would (this is due to licence restrictions).

There are also local operators in many regions. They are not listed here, and may or may not be worth considering

At the end of 2018 Megafon had 86,000 4G/LTE base stations, MTS 61,000, Tele2 47,000 and Beeline 43,000.

Meanwhile Russia's MVNOs market remains relatively small. It's set to reach 6.8 million subscribers in total by the end of 2017, which were less than 2% of all mobile phone users. This has changed in 2018 when first MVNOs started mostly on the Tele2 network. The most accessible are given out by banks: Tinkoff Mobile and SberMobile, but there are others more, that are harder to get hold of.

In 2014, Crimea or Crimean Peninsula became de facto part of the Russian Federation. For legal reasons, separate network providers operate in this region. For more details refer to our special article about this territory.

Buying a SIM card

There are still 4 different ways of buying a SIM card in Russia: the official, the semi-official and two unofficial.

  • In the official provider stores, you will need to present your passport (containing the Russian visa, if applicable for you, and the migration card with an entry stamp on it) to get a SIM card. For some cases, you can present a certificate of registration at the place of temporary/permanent residence (so called "temporary/permanent propiska") instead of the migration card, but for the majority of visitors a foreign passport (with the Russian visa and the migration card) will work; however, some dealers do not know how to deal with a foreign passport. This way is recommended if you have limited knowledge of Russian and need at least some help with setting up.
  • Some electronic or cell phone shops will also set you up skipping some paper work. They might be easier to deal with but charge you a commission of 10-20% for their work. This is especially recommended if you don't speak Russian and need someone who speaks English.
  • Another option is to buy a SIM card in a kiosk or at the subway entrance and some railway stations. This is illegal according to Russian law, but it's still feasible. The card usually costs very little like 100..200RUB and some of that sum may appear as credit on the account balance or there is no balance at all and you need to top up first. Without ID or any other documents required, these cards are pre-activated and already registered to someone's (possibly fictional) name. The worst that can happen - the sudden block (ban) and you lose your RUB 100. Usually it's OK though. There will be no support, either in English or in Russian. You can't replace (restore) such cards in case of loss, damage or ban. You can receive tons of spam messages and advertisement calls.
  • You can order a SIM card on eBay (search for one of the operators in the SIM cards section) or at other websites. They may help you with English-speaking support, delivery and registration. But you will pay a surcharge for this service: SIM card with RUB 100 balance will cost you $9-$11 / €9 or more.

As an alternative to buying local SIM cards, it is possible to rent on a daily basis portable WiFi hotspots which provide unlimited speed and data internet access via 4G/3G. WIfiinrussia.com allows to arrange such rent of pocket WiFi online. Daily rent will cost you $5-$7, and you can connect all device of all your family or team to one hotspot simultaneously. Official registration of a subscriber is performed in accordance with Russian legislation.

A new law, imposing a ban on SIMs sales without the presentation of an ID, is in effect since 1 June, 2018. This means that a communication operator is now obliged to verify the reliability of the personal data of subscribers. If the subscriber doesn't pass the verification, the operator will be forced to suspend the provision of communication services. From experience this means that pre-activated SIM cards, will be usable for 10 days or less before they get de-activated. Also if multiple SIM cards are registered on bought on your name these might also be deemed to be suspicious and might not pass verification. However, there are lots of cards available on the black market till nowadays.

No roaming

Be aware that Russia is not part of the EU, nor the EEA, where since 2017 new international roaming rules have been enforced. So roaming rates on European SIM cards are not capped or regulated in Russia and can be much higher. Better buy a local SIM card instead. You can top up all Russian Sim cards online with utransto.com

MegaFon (МегаФон)

Megafon

MegaFon (mostly owned by russian USM Holding and Gazprombank) is one of three biggest Russian mobile operators. Many users consider MegaFon the best network in Russia for its nationwide coverage and high internet speed. However, the actual speed can vary due to overcrowding.

MegaFon was the first that started a 3G (on 2100 and 900 MHz) and 4G/LTE network in Russia. This is the only network that is available in every region of the country except Crimea and Sevastopol (see the coverage map). Their LTE is mostly on 2600 MHz and has reached all 83 regions where they operate. 800 MHz and 1800 MHz exist too, but have very limited coverage and are unlikely to be seen.

It sees itself as market leader, but its rates can be higher than other operators. The following prices are given for Moscow region and are generally lower in other regions.

General information

  • You can recharge online by credit card or via PayPal using a 3rd party agency website like utransto, Recharge.com or Ding. Most EU, US and CIS countries cards are accepted. They will charge an additional fee for it. 
  • International roaming is active by default. You can receive incoming SMS, check the account balance for free, and even make and receive voice calls outside Russia. 
  • To check your account balance, dial *100# and get the balance on the screen for free. To check remaining data and other allowances (in bundles), dial *558#. 
  • Correct Internet settings (APN, login and password) are not required. It works with any settings.
  • MegaFon SIM cards are valid for 90 days since the last chargeable action. After 90 days of no usage, your account balance will be decremented by RUB 5 on a daily basis until the balance reaches zero, following which the number will be disconnected (terminated). To prevent this, you should make any chargeable action such as an outgoing voice call or send a text message (SMS). Recharging your account won't extend its lifetime! The easiest way to do this from outside Russia is to send a text message (SMS) to yourself.
  • The cheapest way is to use MegaFon's VoIP service called eMotion (previously known as MultiFon or "МультиФон"), which is based on SIP protocol. You can use MegaFon's own mobile application eMotion (for iPhone or Android). VoIP calls to MegaFon numbers of the same region as yours are charged from your SIM card's balance at RUB 0.80 per minute (or part thereof).

How to disable foisted trial, promotion and other useless options

To avoid unnecessary charges, please ensure that all foisted paid options turned off. Those options are sometimes enabled by default (depends on region and plan). The best way to disable them is uncheck them all through online account management website (available only in Russian). First of all, you should obtain a password for website login.

Also you can disable the foisted options by dialing a special command from your phone:

  • "Who called me?" ("Кто звонил") - a pingback, missed call notice. Dial *581*3# to disable.
  • "SMS XXS" - Monthly SMS messages package. Often activates as promotion. Dial *105*1025#, then reply with "2" to disable it and finally reply with "1" to confirm.
  • Disable all Internet Packs (if you have any of them) including promotional "Internet XS" (free for 7 days): *236*00*1#. Don't forget to disable Internet Packs before leaving Russia if you want to keep SIM card and loaded money for the next time.
  • Kaleidoscope ("Калейдоскоп"). Annoying spam messages. Doesn't cost anything by itself, but if you press "yes" (even by mistake) on them you can end up with spam subscriptions for about RUB 5/day each, easily tripling your cost. Also it can hang up your modem. It doesn't show up in online account management website. To disable dial *808*0#.
  • "Instant credit" ("Кредит доверия"/"Плати когда удобно"). Provides an instant loan. Unsafe as you can end up owing money to provider if you don't settle the debt. To disable, dial *550*1#.

Availability

Their SIM cards is available at MegaFon branded offices ("салон") (location map). This way you need an official ID (a passport, sometimes with valid visa or migratory card). But you can also buy a pre-activated SIM card in a kiosk or at the subway entrance. This way you don't need an ID, it costs around 100 RUB (same price as in the official shop), it is already activated and has some credit.

You can buy a SIM card online with a surcharge with worldwide delivery and English support (look at eBay)

They offer different prepaid plans without monthly fee:

  • Switch to ZERO ("Переходи на НОЛЬ"),

  • #Hello

  • Warm Welcome ("Тёплый приём").

  • MegaFon Online data-only plan ("МегаФон-Онлайн")

  • and their combo plans with included allowances called Connect! ("Включайся!")

Switch to ZERO ("Переходи на НОЛЬ") and Everything is easy ("Всё просто") prepaid plans

These standard plans are good for calling to other MegaFon users mainly within the same region.

You can set this plans by dialing *105*1005*1# (Switch to ZERO) or *105*0041*1# (Everything is easy).

For data, internet package "Internet XS" is automatically activated by default. It gives you 70 MB per day valid only in domestic region (Moscow area) for 30 days. Outside of domestic region internet usage is expensive by default (9.9 RUB/MB). If you don't need it, disable by dialing *236*00*1#.

"Warm Welcome" prepaid plan ("Тёплый приём")

This is a good solution for international calls from Moscow area. New SIM card costs 200 RUB.

Calling rates (valid only in Moscow area):

  • to other MegaFon numbers with same plan and same region - free (limited to 100 min/day).
  • to other phones in Moscow 2 RUB/min,
  • to MegaFon numbers of other regions - 2.5 RUB,
  • to other Russian numbers - 10 RUB/min.
  • to CIS and xUSSR countries - 3.5...20 RUB/min
  • to China, India, Vietnam, Turkey and Japan - 2...7 RUB/min

You can switch to this plan from any other by dialing *105*0046*1#.

It has the same base data plan as Switch to ZERO and Everything is easy. Recently, they issued two combo variants of Warm Welcome with data (WhatsApp, Viber, eMotion, imo, VKontakte, Odnoklassniki is free) and voice and SMS allowances added:

  • Warm Welcome S: for 300 RUB monthly, it includes unlimited calls to MegaFon and 300 mins to all networks, 200 SMS and 4 GB data, activation: *105*1082#. For more data, use extension packs ("Продли скорость").
  • Warm Welcome M: for 600 RUB monthly, it includes unlimited calls to MegaFon and 500 mins to all networks, 300 SMS and 10 GB data, activation: *105*1083#. For more data, use extension packs ("Продли скорость") or for a 1.70 RUB daily subscription rate unlimited mobile data at the maximum speed available on the network.

#Hello

The #Hello tariff was introduced for the World Cup 2018 and is valid for 14 days. It costs 700 RUB and includes 30 GB of data, unlimited Megafon calls and 30 minutes of calls to national and to some international destinations, 30 SMS and unlimited access to WhatsApp, Viber, eMotion, Facebook Messenger, Facebook and Instagram. If you want to keep using he account after 14 days, make sure you put 700 RUB in your MegaFon account. Then a new period of 14 days starts and all allowances are renewed.

When the allowance for calling and SMS is used up, you can continue calling and texting against the regular tariff (as long you have got money in your account).

If you have used up you internet allowance you have to activate a separate bundle:

  • 1 GB: 210 RUB - activation: *370*1*1#
  • 5 GB: 450 RUB - activation: *370*2*1#

When that internet bundle is used up dial: *370# to recharge that bundle again. For the #Hello plan automatic recharge of internet does not seem to be working.

"Around the World" prepaid plan ("Вокруг света")

Unfortunately, the best plan in the Moscow region has been suspended. MegaFon closed it for the new subscribers, existing numbers can still use it on new terms until further changes.

"MegaFon Online" data-only plan ("МегаФон-Онлайн")

MegaFon sells a data-SIM mainly for tablets or modems. It is called "MegaFon Online" ("МегаФон-Онлайн"). Start-up price is 200 RUB and any regular SIM can be switched to this plan by typing *510*1#.

Its only benefit is a better default data rate with 2.50 RUB per MB in home region and 9.90 RUB elsewhere (with hourly rounding to 150 KB)! So you should better buy a data pack.

This plan also allows calling and texting, but the price for all calls is bad. It's a good idea to choose any other plan in many cases instead.

Data feature packages

For all plans above the same monthly data packs are available:

MegaFon Internet Packages (for Moscow region cards)

Pack

Fee Data (month) Remarks Activation
S 400 RUB 5 GB smartphones and tablets only,

not valid in modems and routers

*236*2*1#
M 550 RUB 12 GB for all devices *236*3*1#
L 900 RUB 20 GB For all devices *236*4*1#
XL 1300 RUB 30 GB for modems only

unlimited nightly data (1am-7am)

*236*5*1#

All packages have full 4G/LTE speed, where available. Dial *558# to check remaining data volume. Unlimited nightly data bonus is valid from 1am-7am Moscow time (GMT+03:00).

All packages auto-renew, if not stopped by *236*00# (dial *236*00#, press "call" button, then reply with "1" to confirm the package de-activation).

For more data, you can add an extension pack ("Продли скорость"):

  • 70 MB for a day: 19 RUB: - activation: *372#
  • 1 GB: 175 RUB - activation: *370*1*1#
  • 5 GB: 400 RUB - activation: *370*2*1#

Extra data is only valid for the remaining time of the base package.

You can disable all active Internet Packs by dialing *236*00*1#.

Combo plans - "Connect!" series ("Включайся!")

MegaFon has changed its portfolio and discontinued the All (Всё) combo plans. Their new combos are called "Connect!" (Включайся!) and are now valid nationwide:

Package Monthly fee Data Voice Extras Activation
"Пиши" Write 400 RUB 3 GB 300 mins Messengers*, 300 SMS *789*2#
"Говори" Talk 500 RUB 4 GB 700 mins Messengers* *789*4#
"Слушай" Listen 500 RUB 15 GB 300 mins Messengers*, Music*** *789*3#
"Общайся"

Communicate

600 RUB 15 GB 600 mins Messengers*,

Social Media**

*789*5#
"Смотри" Watch 750 RUB 20 GB 750 mins Messengers*,

Social Media**,

20 GB for YouTube,

Free TV pack

*789*6#
"Смотри+" Watch+ 1000 RUB 30 GB 1500 mins *789*8#
"Премиум"

Premium

3000 RUB 20 GB 5000 mins *789*7#
  • *Messengers pack includes unlimited WhatsApp, Viber, eMotion, Telegram and Facebook Messenger;
    • Social Media pack includes free Facebook, Instagram, VK.com (VKontakte), OK.ru (Odnoklassniki);
      • Music pack gives free BOOM, Zvooq and Yandex.Music traffic (only free traffic, no free subscription included).
  • All packages include unlimited calls within MegaFon network.

All data allowances are valid all over Russia except Magadan, Sakhalin island, Yakutia, Chukotka, Kamchatka peninsula, Norilsk city, Taymyr region, Crimea peninsula and Sevastopol, where the basic data rate 9.9 RUB per MB is active.

Check remaining allowances by *558#, check your current plan by dialing *105*3#. When data is used up, you can activate an extension pack mentioned above at Data feature packages.

Beware than when you get a new SIM with this plan or switch to it, you only pay half of the price but get only half of the allowance for 15 days and get/pay the other half after 15 days

More info

  • APN: internet (It should work with any other APN settings too).
  • All given prices are valid for Moscow only, other rates may apply in other regions.
  • Basic website in English
  • Extended website in Russian only

MTS (MTC)

Mts

Pre 2018 MTS Logo

MTC

Brand New MTS Logo

MTS (or MTC in Russian, stands for Mobile TeleSystems, "Мобильные ТелеСистемы" owned by russian Systema group) is the biggest mobile provider in Russia by the number of subscribers. It's available in most regions of the country and gives good speeds at somewhat lower prices than MegaFon (coverage map).

There are some plans and bundles that work even on the Crimean Peninsula on Win Mobile. The prices below are given for the Moscow region. MTS is associated with Vodafone, which is also their favorite roaming partner. Nevertheless, MTS roaming prices in foreign countries are very high.

3G is on 2100 MHz and 900 MHz. LTE is on 2600 MHz in the form of both FDD-LTE and TDD-LTE (on bands 7 and 38) and on 800 and 1800 MHz. 4G/LTE coverage has reached all 83 regions where MTS operates in 2016. 55% is on 1800 MHz, the others on 800 and 2600 MHz.

Unlike other operators, MTS blocks incoming calls from many VoIP networks (example in Russian), as they are considered illegal.

Availability

SIM cards are available in mini-, micro- and nano-size at their branded stores (shop locations). You can also find them at cellphone shops, dealers, or in other electronics shops. All new SIM cards come in 3-in-1 (triple cut) size now - no need to cut.

SIM card expires after 90 days of inactivity (NB: I was told six months). To extend this term, make a call or send a text message. There is no way to see how many days are remaining. However, it is possible to put your account on hold for 1 rub/day to suspend all tariff plan charges and keep the SIM active longer. Dial *111*157# and then reply with "1" to activate Voluntary Blocking ("добровольная блокировка"). Unblocking must be done online or at an MTS location if the SIM is registered in your name. 

You can top-up online by international credit card or PayPal with 3rd party agency or by buying vouchers in Russia. To check your account balance, dial *100# (in Russian) or #100# (in English) for free. To check last 5 charges in 3 days dial *152*1#.

Removing foisted options

To avoid unnecessary charges, please ensure that all foisted paid options turned off. MTS often activates them without your permit - as a promotion, to let you try, or something else. Dial the deactivation sequence and press the "call" button. You should receive an SMS for confirmation that service is disabled:

  • GOOD'OK: Plays RBT (ring-back tone) music and ads when calling - removal: *111*29#
  • You've got a call ("Вам звонили!"): Missed call notice - removal: *111*38#
  • MTS Radio: plays audio ads when making outgoing calls - removal: *567*0#
  • MTS Ads: SMS newsletter with ads - removal: *111*374#

Prepaid voice plans (Тарифы для звонков)

Prepaid plans have no monthly fee. You will pay only for used services (per each minute of call, per each SMS, per each MB of mobile data). Data is not included and at a high 9.90 RUR per MB:

  • Super MTS (Супер МТС): Probably the best voice plan available for time-to-time calling. Main advantage of this plan are unlimited outgoing calls to other MTS numbers of same region per day and most of Moscow landline numbers plus 100 MB. Starter price: 100 RUR or change to this tariff by *111*8888# for 150 RUB.
  • Your country (Твоя Страна): Good plan for calls to another regions of Russia, CIS ans some Asian countries (China, Vietnam). Useless for calling to another coutries, no discounts for EU, GB, USA. Change to this by *111*741# for 150 RUB.
  • Red Energy: 1.6 RUB per min for all calls inside the region. Starter price: 150 RUB, change by *111*727#

These monthly options can be added to all prepaid voice plans mentioned above for internet access:

  • BIT (БИТ): daily 75 MB data for 200 RUB per month. For additional data 50 MB packs at 8 RUB are added automatically. A day is from midnight in the associated time zone. Activation: *111*252#
  • SuperBIT (СуперБИТ): 3 GB data for 350 RUB per month. For additional data 500 MB packs at 75 RUB are added automatically. Activation: *111*628#.
  • Online (ВСети): a social media plan for 4 RUB per day giving unlimited access to VКontakte, Odnoklassniki, Facebook, FB Messenger, Instagram, Telegram, Skype, WhatsApp, Viber, Twitter, Snapchat and Twitch; activation: *345#; deactivation: *111*345*2#.
  • Internet 4 Mbit/s (Интернет 4 Мбит/сек.): slow unlimited internet plan throttled to 4 Mbit/s for streaming devices with unlimited internet at 750 RUB per month. If tethering is detected, speed will be further throttled to 512 kbit/s. Can't be combined with an Mini, Maxi or VIP package. Activation through internet.mts.ru
Package Fee Data Activation Overuse
Internet Mini 500 RUB 7 GB *160# 500 MB: 75 RUB
Internet Maxi 800 RUB 15 GB (#) ВСети 1 GB: 150 RUB
Internet VIP 1200 RUB 30 GB (#) *162# 3 GB: 350 RUB

Note, that data are valid all over Russia, but outside your home region still a surcharge of 50 RUB per day is added. (#) = these packages are unlimited at night (0-7am). 

Activation is by code, app or online. Remaining data volume can be checked by dialing *217#. All packages auto-renew after 30 days. To deactivate type activation code and replace # by *2#. 

Smartphone plans (Для смартфона)

Smart series offers combo plans with a monthly fee with included calls, SMS and data. Often it's a better choice than adding a data pack to regular voice plan. Big advantage of this plans is their nationwide availability (valid in all regions, not only in domestic area and on the Crimea too).

Monthly fee is deducted from your account balance at the moment of plan activation. The next debit will be exactly 30 days after the date of activation. If your account balance is not sufficient for next monthly fee, all services (voice and data) will be temporarily suspended. To unblock, recharge your account.

These plans are only for smartphones and tablets usage. Using them in modems or mobile routers is prohibited with a warning message displayed. MTS detects most used modems and routers by their IMEI number and blocks the mobile data usage in such devices. However, tethering is not blocked and confirmed as usable on these plans:

Prices valid for Moscow region
Plan Price Data Calls SMS Activation
Smart 400 RUB 5 GB 200 mins (national) 550 *111*1024#
Our Smart 1000 RUB 25 GB # 1500 mins (national) 1500 *111*1025#
Smart Top 1950 RUB unlimited 3000 mins (national) 3000 *111*1026#
Ultra 2900 RUB unlimited 5000 mins (national) 5000 *111*777#
Hype (Хайп) 500 RUB 7 GB +

soc.media

100 mins (on-net) 200 *111*1010#
My Smart

Мойm Smart

500 RUB

525 RUB

625 RUB

10 GB

15 GB

20 GB

200 mins (nat), 200 SMS included

400 mins (nat), 400 SMS + 25 RUB

600 mins (nat), 600 SMS + 75 RUB

*111*3888#
Tariff

Тарифище

585 RUB

720 RUB

945 RUB

1395 RUB

unlimited 500 mins (nat.)

800 mins (nat.)

1500 mins (nat.)

3000 mins (nat.)

500

800

1500

3000

*111*1115#

All Smart plans include unlimited calls to other MTS Russia numbers. (#) = Our Smart enables to share these data with up to 5 numbers.

Social media in the Hype plan includes unlimited use of VKontakte, Odnoklassniki, Facebook, Twitter, Skype, Telegram, WhatsApp, Viber, Snapchat, YouTube, МТS Music, Apple Music, Google Music, Zvooq, App Store, Google Play, МТS Connect and some games.

To check the remaining data, SMS and minutes, dial *100*1#. To check balance, dial *100#. For overuse on the Smart mini plan 95 RUB per 500 MB are charged up to 15 times, on Smart plan 75 RUB per 500 MB and on other plans 150 RUB per 1 GB.

For more data you can better add one of these add-on packages for 30 days:

  • + 3 GB: 190 RUB - activation: *111*1417*1#
  • + 5 GB: 250 RUB - activation: *111*1517*1#
  • + 10 GB: 300 RUB - activation: *111*1617*1#
  • + 20 GB: 350 RUB - activation: *111*1817*1#

Data-only plans (Тарифы для интернета)

  • Tablet plan (Тариф Для планшета): data plan for tablets with 10 GB nationwide for a month at 550 RUB. Overuse is charged at high 95 RUB per 500 MB.
  • Laptop plan (Тариф Для ноутбука): data plan for routers and dongles in mobile computers at 800 RUB with unlimited data at 800 RUB throttled to 4 Mbit/s.
  • Smart Device plan (Тариф Умное устройство): data plan for IoT and other devices at 670 RUB for the 1st year including 300 MB internet, 30 mins (regional and on-net) and 30 SMS.
  • [MTS-Connect 4 (МТС Коннект-4): data plan aimed at modems only in combination with an USB dongle or WiFi hotspot router. No longer available for third-party (i.e. non-operator-locked) modems.]

More info

Beeline (Билайн)

Beeline-RUS

Beeline logo with Russian

Beeline is the 3rd operator in the country at the moment owned by Veon (formerly Vimpelcom Group). Beeline works in almost all regions of Russia, their 3G coverage is concentrated in populated places, but still limited in rural areas. 4G/LTE coverage is available in 246 cities in 58 regions covering roughly half of the Russian population in 2016. Check the coverage map: there are still some black spots mainly at the far east (coverage map).

Beeline

Beeline logo with English

Nowadays, Beeline's 2G network is sensibly degraded. There are some voice calls clarity and data transfer speed issues, related to the signal strength and coverage. However, this operator provides good rates for international calling, especially to CIS countries where Beeline own and partner networks are available.

Prices below are given for Moscow region. For 4G/LTE access, make sure your device supports Beeline's LTE bands (on 2600, 1800 and 800 MHz).

General information

All SIM cards are valid for 3 months (89 days) since the date of the last chargeable usage. There is no way to see how many days are remaining. To prevent blocking and save your number, you should make any paid action at least once every 3 months by sending a text message or making an outgoing call.

You can recharge your number with your credit card or via PayPal using 3rd part top-up agencies like this service for a surcharge. Lots of EU, US, UK and CIS countries credit cards are accepted (Visa or MasterCard).

To check your balance, dial *102# for free. The balance is displayed on your phone screen. On some plans the more common combination *100# also works.

Availability

Just get any prepaid SIM card (you can buy it at Beeline offices, cellphone shops like "Euroset" ("Евросеть"), Sviaznoy ("Связной"), "Know-How" ("Ноу-Хау") and many others for a start up price of about 100-200 RUR without preloaded credits or with 50-150 RUB preloaded. Some shops sell cards at higher price (charging you 10-20% more), but they will help you to register your SIM card. Also you can buy it on eBay or try to find in the kiosks or at the streets (dealer stands).

You can buy a new SIM card with one of their prepaid plans or change to this plan by dialling a code:

  • Zero doubts ("Ноль сомнений"): main Beeline prepaid plan for phones without monthly fee. Nothing included except an initial preloaded credits (in most often cases 50..200 RUB). This plan is good only for calling to other Beeline numbers. To switch to this tariff dial 0674000999.
  • Per second ("Посекундный"): very rare in stock, without monthly fee. This plan is relatively good for calling other local numbers as it offers per second billing. However, its rates aren't very good. To switch to this tariff dial 0674100200.

The only package for data on these two plans above is their expensive 1.5 GB pack for the month which will be auto-enabled as soon as you use more than 1 MB. It's for 240 RUB, but debited as 8 RUB per day.

  • All! ("Всё!"): most widely sold combo plans with monthly fee and included bundles, for details see below.

For tablets, routers and modems they offer data-focused plans, that include voice calls and SMS at a higher rate:

  • Gigabyte (Гигабайт): This data plan is very good for travelling as it's valid all over Russia. 1 GB is sold at 100 RUB and you can buy as many packs as you like. Change by *110*0512#
  • Internet for tablets (Интернет для планшета): This plan for tablets includes 10 GB per month at 550 RUB. Change by *110*1024#. For more data Gigabyte (see above) packs can be added.
  • Internet for computers (Интернет для компьютера): This plan for modems includes 25 GB per month at 1200 RUB. Change by *110*2048#. For more data Gigabyte (see above) packs can be added.
  • Signal (Сигнал): This plan is for M2M devices like GPS routers or alarm systems. It has a flat fee of 1 RUB per day and 2 RUB per MB.

All Highway internet packages have been discontinued.

Special offer for the World Cup

Like MegaFon Beeline has issued a special tariff for visitors of the World Cup in June/July 2018 called Welcome! The offer includes unlimited mobile internet at up to 3.6 Mbps and 30 minutes of outgoing calls to Russia and most foreign countries. Incoming calls are free. Subscribers pay 700 RUB for the first 14 days at activation and additional weeks cost 350 RUB each. More info about this plan in English can be found here.

"All!" Combo plans (тарифы серии "Всё!")

Like MTS, Beeline has monthly combo plans with included allowances of voice calls, SMS and data valid all over Russia:

Monthly Beeline combo plans "ALL!" (Moscow region)
Plan Fee/month charged Calling time included SMS Data Activation
per day to Beeline Other dom. calls
All 1 400 RUB 13.33 RUB 300 mins 300 3 GB 0674000111
All 2 600 RUB 20 RUB unlimited 500 mins 300 15 GB 0674000222
All 3 900 RUB 30 RUB unlimited 1200 mins 300 22 GB 0674000333
All 4 1500 RUB 50 RUB unlimited 2000 mins national 300 30 GB 0674000444
All 5 2500 RUB 83.3 RUB unlimited 5000 mins 300 30 GB 0674000555

When data volume is used up, the "auto-renewal rate" will be charged: 100 MB for 50 RUB. In this case it may be better to add a Highway pack. Beeline's "All" plans renew automatically every 30 days.

At the Beeline store be sure to get a prepaid ("предоплата"), not a postpaid ("постоплата") plan that sales agents may try to sell to you. Watch out, as both plan types bear the same name and like in English both words look similar.

Internet sharing option

Beeline offers an option which allows you to share the included data allowance in the "All" combo plans with other Beeline users of same region, not to be mixed up with tethering. So if you have 2 or more Beeline SIM cards from the same region you can share one "All" combo package with other user without paying for 2nd "All" bundle.

Certain limitations apply: You can share your internet allowance only on "All 3", "All 4" and "All 5" packages. You can select 1, 2 or 3 additional numbers for sharing your package. Adding each shared user increases the monthly fee to 150 RUB (5 RUB daily). To add the user to your "group", it should be the Beeline customer of same region. The other number selected for sharing can only use your data pack, while calling and texting not. It's often better to buy a smaller separate package for other SIM card instead of using this feature.

More info

  • APN: internet.beeline.ru
  • Password and username: beeline
  • English-speaking customer service: 0511
  • Basic website in English
  • Extended website in Russian

Tele2 (by Rostelecom)(Теле2, Ростелеком)

Tele2

Tele2 logo

In 2014 Swedish Tele2 group ceased all operations in Russia and sold their brand and network to state-owned Rostelecom, that used to be the 4th largest provider in the country. It operates in 67 of 85 regions of Russia (written in Latin letters here). So their coverage is still very patchy (coverage map) as they don't have licenses for some areas.

Tele2 Russia commercially launched LTE on 1800 MHz (B3) in 2014 and rollouts in most major cities began throughout 2015. Further LTE networks have been launched on B7 (2600 MHz) and B20 (800 MHz), with smaller LTE-TDD deployments over B40 (2300 MHz) primarily in Krasnodar and Sochi districts. The company commercially launched B31 (450 MHz) LTE under the SkyLink banner in May 2016, initially in regional areas and gradually expanding to cover St. Petersburg and Moscow within the same year.

There is a notable "black spot" for 2G in the European part of Russia in Moscow. Tele2 started to work in Moscow in October 2015. They decided to build only a 3G/4G network here and there is no roaming on other 2G networks and no future plans for 2G coverage (GSM 900/1800) within Moscow area. With a 90% coverage, there are still some coverage gaps in Moscow.

If you try to use a Tele2 SIM card from another region in Moscow now, it will go to roaming, registering in 3G/4G network of Tele2 or in 2G with other networks, but for Moscow regional users only native Tele2 3G/4G network is available.

General information

All SIM cards are valid for 4 months (120 days) since the date of last usage (making a paid call or sending a text message). There is no way to see how many days remaining. To prevent blocking and save your number, you should make any paid action at least once in 4 months - write a text message or make an outgoing call. Writing a text to yourself is the easiest way.

To check the account balance, dial *105# and press "call" button - you will see the actual balance on the screen. To recharge online, try this website. Not all credit cards accepted.

Availability

There are some small Tele2 branded retail shops. You can buy Tele2 SIM cards in their retail stores, at the distribution points in some malls and at the railway stations, or using their online store with free delivery to a local address. You can arrange a pick up point or use the free delivery service within the city (Moscow and St. Petersburg) in a max. of 2 days. Independent dealers resell their SIM cards in electronic or cell phone shops for a small surcharge. Start-up price is 100-500 RUB depending on number and start-up plan.

In summer 2019 Tele2 started as first operator to sell eSIMs for their plans. Compatible phones can load one of their plans below on their profile. You should better go to a Tele2 store and speak good Russian language, if you are not famlliar with the process.

Prepaid plans

Tele2 recently updated all their prepaid plans. The main advantage of the new plans is a roll-over of unused data and voice allowances to the next month. You can switch between plans any time for 40 RUR per each change.

Given below are the prepaid combo plans for the Moscow region. All included allowances are valid in all over Russia (or rather all regions where Tele2's own network is available):

Plan name Monthly fee
Allowances Activation
Classic

Классический

free none default*

online

My Tele2

Мой Теле2

210 RUB (as

7 RUB/day)

5 GB,

social media

*630*1#
My Talk

Мой разговор

200 RUB 2 GB,

200 mins, 50 SMS

*630*2#
My Online

Мой онлайн

400 RUB 15 GB, social media

500 mins, 50 SMS

*630*3#
Online Everywhere

Везде онлайн

500 RUB 50 GB, social media

500 mins, 50 SMS

*630*6#
My Online +

Мой онлайн +

700 RUB 30 GB, social media

800 mins, 50 SMS

*630*4#
Unlimited

Безлимит

600 RUB unlimited data,

500 mins, 50 SMS

*630*15#
Internet for devices

Интернет для устройств

299 RUB 7 GB *630*12#

On-net calls within Tele2 network are included unlimited. After using included data allowance, speed will be throttled to 64 kbps. All packages auto-renew, if not disabled before. All unused allowances will be rolled over to the next month, if you continue your plan.

Check consumption of the packages by *155*0#. Social media includes zero-rated access to Facebook, WhatsApp, Viber, TamTam, VKontakte and Odnoklassniki, except for voice and video calls using messengers.

(*) = changes back to the Classic plan can be made online for a 150 RUB fee.

Data feature packages

If you don't want to use combo plans, you can add a special internet pack to the Classic plan. The Classic tariff charges 15 RUB per 10 MB. Beyond 10 MB per day the daily pack of 1 GB

All data packs are valid in all Tele2 regions. They offer two daily options:

  • Internet from Phone ("Интернет с телефона"):
    • 100 MB per day for 7 RUB daily fee

Activation is by code *155*151# and deactivation by *155*150#. Every activation costs a 20 RUB set-up fee, while deactivation is free. To check how much of your data pack remains available, dial *155*15#

  • Network day ("День в сети"):
    • 250 MB per day for 20 RUB daily fee.

After using the amount included, the speed will be limited to 64 kbps. For activation: dial *155*161#, for deactivation dial *155*160#. To check how much MB of data pack remains available, dial *155*16#. First activation is free, all subsequent activations are for 50 RUB.

And there are also some monthly data-only packages:

Data Extras Value Activation Deactivation
1 GB 120 RUB *155*702*1# *155*702*0#
3 GB 200 RUB *155*703*1# *155*703*0#
15 GB unlimited nighttime use 400 RUB *155*704*1# *155*704*0#
15 GB free social apps 499 RUB *155*671# *155*670#
25 GB unlimited nighttime use 600 RUB *155*691# *155*690#
40 GB unlimited nighttime use 900 RUB *155*701# *155*700#

After using the included volume, speed will be throttled to 64 kbps. All packages auto-renew if not disabled after 30 days. On all packages unused data rolls over to the next month, if a new package is bought. Nighttime use is valid midnight-7am and not debited from the data quota. Social media includes unlimited access to Facebook, VKontakte, Odnoklassniki and location services Yandex.

For extra data to this packs above, they have released these extension packages:

Data Time Price Activation Deactivation
100 MB 1 day 15 RUB *155*281# *155*280#
500 MB 1 day 50 RUB *155*171# *155*170#
1 GB 30 days 120 RUB *155*541# *155*540#
3 GB 30 days 200 RUB *155*181# *155*180#
5 GB 30 days 250 RUB *155*231# *155*230#

In 2017 they have introduced their new service 'Exchange of minutes to GB'. The service enables customers to exchange minutes of voice calls under their tariffs to internet traffic. The exchange rate totals 1 min to 10.24 MB or 1 GB for 100 minutes. This option will be free for subscribers of all tariffs under the 'My Tele2' line. An unlimited amount of exchanges can be performed by this code: *155*62*<number of mins>#.

More info

  • APN: internet.tele2.ru
  • Website for Moscow: https://msk.tele2.ru/ change on top right for other regions
  • Support phone +7(495)979-76-11 for Moscow

Yota (Йота)

Yota

Before 2014 Yota provided "mobile broadband" Internet access via its own WiMAX and LTE modems and routers. After being acquired by MegaFon it was relaunched as a new universal mobile operator providing voice calls on GSM 900 and 1800 MHz band and LTE 4G data on 2600 MHz (band 7). As of 2016 it covers major cities in 76 regions of Russia: coverage map

Yota was the first operator in Russia providing fixed prices across all regions. But still they charge different prices depending where you buy their SIM card. The operator is targeting people living in urban cities using smartphones, tablets or modems.

Yota is also the only operator in Russia, who (almost) doesn’t have domestic roaming by default. Even without any additional options or packages, if you are traveling for less than a month (it is a little bit more complex, but “for a month” is a safe lower bound) all the incoming calls and data are free and for outgoing calls your minutes are valid in any region.

Availability

Their SIM card is available for purchase online , via mobile application (iOS, Android) or at several offline sales points. The SIM card is provided for free, without any credits loaded. Three sizes are available: standard, micro, nano. In Moscow and St. Petersburg the card can be delivered to your address for free. You will need a valid local or international passport or any other personal ID to obtain the card. Activation is automatic, you should insert the card and turn on the mobile data. Balance can be topped up by credit card through their mobile app or on the website.

For smartphones

They are prepaid plans with a monthly fee and an included combo pack with unlimited data for some apps you choose. It's no longer possible to get an unlimited data package, though old SIM cards still work. The exact price depends on the region where the card is obtained.

For Moscow these monthly plans are sold

  • 6 GB: 280 RUB
  • 12 GB: 330 RUB
  • 30 GB: 380 RUB
  • 50 GB: 420 RUB

For voice calls all over in Russia you can add 100 mins intervals for 50 RUB. For social media unlimited apps can be added: VKontakte, Instagram, Facebook, Odnoklassniki, Twitter for 25 RUB each; Viber, WhatsApp, Skype for RUR 15 each, YouTube for 60 RUB or SMS for 50 RUB.

Their app allows to see remaining minutes, account balance, top-up and chat with support (in Russian only).

What they hide in their T&Cs: If the SIM-card is used other than in a smartphone (like in a router, modem or tablet), the speed will be throttled to 64 kbit/s. If your smartphone is used as a hotspot for tethering, the speed is limited to 128 kbit/s, this limitation can be removed for 2 hours at 90 RUR or for 24 hours at 190 RUR. When you use file-sharing networks, speed is limited to 32 kbit/s;

For tablets

However, they offer special SIM cards for tablets with full 4G speed. In 2018 they discontinued all unlimited plans and give out these options:

  • 7 GB: 400 RUB
  • 15 GB: 450 RUB
  • 30 GB: 590 RUB

Unlimited apps for a surcharge: VKontakte, Odnoklassniki, Instagram, Facebook, Twitter: + 20 RUB each, Viber, WhatsApp, Skype: + 10 RUB each and YouTube + 60 RUB.

If you use it in an modem, speed will be throttled to 64 kbits and for torrents to 32 kbits.

For modems and routers

Yota also offers special plan for using with modem or router which has fully unlimited data (*with mild fair use policy with throttling the speed when using high-load and P2P applications). This is LTE-only solution (4G), without voice capabilities, only data. There is no mobile phone number assigned to this subscription.

You should buy their hardware (modem or router) if you want to subscribe. USB modem has built-in USIM card, so the modem is locked to your subscription. You can't use it with another operator.

Routers has detachable USIM card which is different from their common voice-capable smartphone SIM card. You can purchase "modem only" USIM card without their device, but you can't use their "modem card" in a smartphone or in your tablet. You can try using it in your 4G router, but this is not guaranteed. Yota recommends using their own equipment for this subscription. It can check the device ID and block unknown devices from accessing the radio network.

  • for 2 hours at max. speed: 50 RUB
  • for 24 hours at max. speed: 150 RUB
  • for 30 days:
    • @ 512 kbps: 400 RUB
    • @ 1 Mbps: 600 RUB
    • @ 5 Mbps: 900 RUB
    • @ 10 Mbps: 1250 RUB
    • @ max. speed: 1400 RUB

Tethering

Another SIM card limitation is that Yota prohibits tethering. If you switch on tethering, the speed drops to 128 kbps. The operator determines that tethering is on by measuring the TTL value, on source device it's usually 64, on destination it's 63.

The workaround to use tethering is to decrement default TTL on source device, e.g. for Android 4.4+: "sysctl -w /proc/sys/net/ipv4/ip_default_ttl=63".

More info

Sim Sim (Сим Сим)

Simsim

Sim Sim is the first Russian MVNO aimed at visitors, immigrants and migrant workers to Russia established by SIM Telecom (СИМ ТЕЛЕКОМ) in 2014. Their support is supposed to be available in Tajik, Uzbek, Kyrgyz and Russian, possible in English too, but you can't take it for granted.

Up to 2016 it used to be independent, when it was mostly purchased by Vimpelcom, parent company of the Beeline network. That's why it uses the network of Beeline and gives like their parent IDD calls at the low rates. For their takeover in 2016, they refreshed their portfolio, but still focus on the Moscow region.

Availability

Their SIM card is available at their stores mainly in the capital (locator). Top-ups can be made at their sales stores and these payment terminals mentioned here. They offer different plans for local, national and IDD calls, which have all the same data allowances as bundles. Note that some plans are only available for the Moscow region.

Data rates

In all of their new tariffs data is by default at 10 RUB per MB. These data packages can be added:

  • Internet Start: 15 MB per day - 2.5 RUB - activation: *103*101#
  • Internet Mini: 50 MB per day - 5 RUB - activation: *103*102# - fee: 30 Rub.
  • Internet Standard: 2.5 GB per month - 250 RUB - activation: *103*103#
  • Internet Optimum: 5 GB per month - 400 RUB - activation: *103*104#
  • Internet & SMS: 1.5 GB per month and 150 regional SMS - 150 RUB - activation: *103*401#

All activations are free, but of Internet Mini. General balance check is by *102#, package balance check by *100*1#. Their older packages have still different data packages, but are not available anymore for new starters.

More info

  • APN: simsim
  • Customer support (possibly in English): 7070