Russian Banks to Adopt Unified QR Code for All Money Transfers

12:54; 25 January 2026 year

### Russian Banks to Adopt Universal QR Code for All Payments Starting September 1 Starting September 1, Russian banks will be required to use a unified universal QR code for all money transfers, according to a source cited by TASS. The introduction of the universal payment code aims to foster competition in the financial market, enhance convenience for individuals and businesses, and ensure equal access to payment infrastructure. By September 1, 2026, all credit institutions must adopt the unified QR code for transfers made using QR technology. This new measure will improve the customer experience and give consumers the freedom to choose the most convenient payment method, regardless of their bank or payment service provider. The development of alternative payment methods to bank cards will help reduce the share of card payments and level the transaction costs for trade and service companies, including small and medium-sized businesses. At checkout counters, customers will be presented with a single universal QR code that works on an equally accessible infrastructure. Currently, alongside the universal code, individual bank QR solutions are also widely used, but they will gradually be phased out.

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