Russia prolongs restrictions on cross-border money transfers until March 2026

The Central Bank of Russia (CBR) has extended its restrictions on cross-border money transfers for an additional six months, citing the need to maintain financial stability amid ongoing geopolitical and economic pressures.

The renewed measures will remain in effect from October 1, 2025, through March 31, 2026, Caliber.Az reports.

Under the extended framework, Russian citizens and non-resident individuals from so-called "friendly countries" will continue to be permitted to transfer no more than $1 million USD per month — or the equivalent in other foreign currencies — to overseas bank accounts. This cap applies to both personal and business-related transfers and mirrors the limitations previously enforced earlier this year.

In addition, the CBR reaffirmed its restrictions on money transfer systems, with individuals allowed to send no more than $10,000 USD per month via such platforms. The central bank has maintained that these measures are necessary to mitigate capital outflows and protect the domestic currency amid sanctions and market volatility.

Non-resident individuals legally employed in Russia will remain eligible to transfer funds abroad equivalent to their earned wages. However, the ban on cross-border transfers remains in place for non-residents not working in Russia, as well as for legal entities from unfriendly countries, with the exception of foreign companies under Russian ownership or control.

The CBR last extended the same set of restrictions in March 2025, reinforcing its cautious stance toward outbound capital flows. Officials argue that the controls are crucial for safeguarding Russia’s macroeconomic stability, particularly in light of continued international sanctions and restricted access to global financial markets.

The term "friendly countries" typically refers to those that have not imposed sanctions on Russia or taken hostile political positions in the wake of the war in Ukraine. 

By Vafa Guliyeva