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How can a Russian citizen open a bank card in Georgia?

Documents, an in-person visit and why refusals happen.

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Short answer

A Russian citizen can open an account and card at a Georgian bank, but only in person at a branch: you need your international passport, a Georgian phone number and a questionnaire on the account's purpose and your income sources. Banks often ask for proof of income, a rental contract or a bank statement, and refusal without explanation is possible even with full documents. The card is usually issued within a few days.

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Why

  1. Banks vet clients under anti-money-laundering rules and sanctions requirements.
  2. Russian citizens generally cannot open accounts remotely at major banks.
  3. If one bank refuses, try another: requirements differ between banks.

Details

With a residence permit or confirmed work in Georgia, opening an account is much easier. Some banks charge a small application fee; check at the branch.

Tip

Bring a statement from your Russian bank for recent months and proof of income, ideally translated into English.

People also ask

  • Can Russians open a bank account in Georgia?

Sources

The situation with transfers and banks was checked on October 3, 2026 and changes quickly. Check terms with your bank before sending.

  • What banks are there in Georgia, and which should a foreigner choose?

    Georgia's largest banks are TBC Bank and Bank of Georgia, with the most branches and ATMs, good English-language apps and often Russian-speaking support.

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  • Who is pictured on Georgian lari banknotes?

    Lari banknotes feature notable Georgians: scholar Ivane Javakhishvili on 5 lari, poet Akaki Tsereteli on 10, writer Ilia Chavchavadze on 20, Queen Tamar on 50, poet Shota Rustaveli on 100 and Kakutsa Cholokashvili, a hero of the 1920s independence struggle, on 200.

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  • How can you send money from Georgia to Russia?

    Money usually goes from Georgia to Russia by bank transfer from a Georgian account to an account at a Russian bank that is not under sanctions, or through money transfer services.

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  • How can you send money from Russia to Georgia in 2026?

    Since 24 July 2026 Zolotaya Korona no longer sends transfers to Georgia, so money now goes by bank transfer to an IBAN from Russian banks that still serve this route, or through separate payment services.

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