How can you send money from Russia to Georgia in 2026?
What still works after Zolotaya Korona stopped.
Short answer
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. The recipient needs an account with a Georgian bank, which may ask for documents on the source of funds. For a trip, cash is still the most reliable option.
Why
- Zolotaya Korona stopped transfers after the EU's 21st sanctions package targeted its operator.
- Whether a transfer is possible depends on your Russian bank: check the international transfers section of its app.
- Georgian banks vet incoming transfers from Russia differently, and some accept them more readily than others.
Details
Cash must be declared on entry to Georgia if it exceeds the equivalent of 30,000 GEL. Avoid unknown intermediaries in messenger apps: it is easy to lose money through them.
Tip
Before sending, check with the recipient's Georgian bank that it will accept funds from your bank, and keep documents on the source of funds.
What may differ
Whether a transfer works depends on whether your Russian bank is under sanctions and on the specific Georgian bank's rules.
Common misconception
Money transfers from Russia to Georgia are completely banned.
What actually happens
There's no ban, but many transfer services have stopped working, so the options are far fewer.
People also ask
- How do I send money from Russia to Georgia?
Sources
- News Georgia: Zolotaya Korona stops transfers to GeorgiaChecked at:
- Customs Code of Georgia, Article 169Checked at:
The situation with transfers and banks was checked on October 3, 2026 and changes quickly. Check terms with your bank before sending.
How to Send Money to Georgia: Methods, Timing and What to CheckRelated questions
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How do you receive a transfer from abroad to a Georgian account?
You can receive money from abroad by bank transfer to your IBAN, through a system such as Western Union, or via Visa+ by phone number to a TBC card.
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What is a Georgian IBAN and where do you find it?
A Georgian IBAN has 22 characters: the country code GE, two check digits, two letters of the bank code and 16 digits of the account identifier assigned by the bank.
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How can you top up a card or pay a bill at a terminal in Georgia?
Utilities, mobile, internet, television and state services in Georgia are paid at payment terminals: the TBC Pay network has more than 4,000 terminals and over 1,000 services.
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Where can you exchange damaged or old lari banknotes?
Worn and damaged lari banknotes and coins are replaced free at face value at the National Bank of Georgia and commercial banks if they still meet the fitness criteria.