Russia Imposes 24-Hour Internet and SMS Block on Foreign SIM Cards: What Travelers Need to Know

Russia has begun blocking mobile internet (data) and SMS for foreign SIM cards and eSIMs for the first 24 hours after they connect to a Russian mobile network.

Voice calls usually still work, but you cannot use mobile data or send/receive SMS during that first day. 

What exactly changed?

• When a phone with a foreign SIM or eSIM first registers on a Russian operator’s network, mobile data and SMS are automatically blocked for 24 hours. Voice calls are normally unaffected.
• Some reports say the block was put in place from 6 October 2025 and that operators in nearby countries (Belarus, Kazakhstan, Lithuania, etc.) warned their roaming customers about it.
• If the SIM stays inactive for 3 days after the block ends, the system may re-apply a new 24-hour block until there is activity.

Why did Russia do this?

Authorities and some operator communications say it’s part of security measures for example, to stop misuse of foreign SIMs for remote drone control, cyberattacks, or other illicit remote operations.

Officials had suggested a “cooling-off” period earlier this year.

What this means for travelers

• On arrival, don’t expect your regular roaming data or text messages to work for 24 hours.
• You can still make and receive voice calls (usually).
• Wi-Fi (hotel, café, airport) still works, so plan to use Wi-Fi for messaging and internet

Practical tips: How to stay connected

1. Use Wi-Fi straight away.

 Connect to your hotel, airport, café, or museum Wi-Fi for email, WhatsApp, maps, translation apps, and ride apps.

2. Download what you need before you fly.

 Save offline maps (Google Maps offline areas), translate packs, boarding passes, and any train or hotel confirmations.

3. Set messaging apps to use Wi-Fi only.

 Make sure WhatsApp, Telegram, Signal, etc., will use Wi-Fi so you can message normally in the first 24 hours.

4. Consider a local Russian SIM, but be careful.

 Buying a local SIM often gives full data access, but Russia has local rules (ID/registration) for SIM activation. Also, check whether sellers require a passport or registration.

5. Pre-activate roaming with your home operator (if possible).

 Some home carriers offer special roaming plans that may work differently. Check with your provider before you travel. Roaming from your home operator can be expensive, though.

6. Avoid relying on eSIMs from foreign providers upon arrival.

 Reports indicate that both physical foreign SIMs and many foreign eSIMs are affected by the 24-hour block. If you plan to use an eSIM, check provider notes and whether it activates automatically on landing.

7. Plan for the repeated-block rule.

 If you don’t use the SIM for a few days after the 24-hour block lifts, it may be blocked again for another 24 hours.

Keep the SIM active (make a short call or send a message over Wi-Fi) to avoid re-blocking.

Quick checklist before you travel

• Download offline maps & translate packs.
• Turn on Wi-Fi calling where possible.
• Inform friends/family you may be offline on mobile data for the first day.
• Save important addresses and booking numbers in notes on your phone (not just in the cloud).
• Carry a paper copy of hotel address and local transport info, just in case.

Freequenty Asked Questions

Q: Can I make phone calls?

 Ans: Yes — voice calls usually work. It’s mobile data and SMS that are blocked for 24 hours.

Q: Will my WhatsApp and Telegram work?

 Ans: Only over Wi-Fi. Mobile data will not work until the 24 hours are over.

Q: Does this affect Russian citizens?

 Ans: This rule targets foreign SIMs/eSIMs that register while roaming. Local Russian numbers are not the target of this 24-hour block.

Q: How long will this rule stay in place?

 Ans: That is not yet clear. The change was announced and applied in early October 2025; it may be kept, changed, or clarified by Russian authorities. Keep an eye on trusted news or your mobile operator’s travel notices