Travel Impressions: Smolensk (Russia)

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Side trip so Smolensk, one of Russia’s oldest cities, is located in western Russia along the Dnieper River, approximately 418 kilometers west of Moscow. First mentioned in 863 AD, it served as a vital stronghold and trading hub due to its strategic position on key trade routes linking the Baltic Sea to Kiev and the Byzantine Empire. Over centuries, Smolensk became a focal point of conflict, changing hands multiple times between Lithuania, Poland, and Russia before being definitively incorporated into Russia in 1654. The city is renowned for its historical landmarks, including the Smolensk Fortress, constructed in the late 16th century under Boris Godunov, and several pre-Mongol invasion churches. Despite suffering extensive damage during World War II, Smolensk has preserved its cultural heritage and remains a significant center for trade, education, and tourism. Its rich history reflects resilience and a blend of Eastern and Western influences.

Tricky to buy a SIM card in Russia. Times when you could just use your google project fi phone are over.

1. Get a Notarized Translation of Your Passport

Before you can apply for any official documents, you must have a notarized translation of your passport into Russian.

• Visit a translation bureau or a notary office.
• Ensure that all passport pages containing personal details and visas are translated and certified.

2. Apply for SNILS (Russian Social Security Number)

A SNILS (СНИЛС) is required for various government services, including SIM card registration.

• Apply at the Social Fund of Russia (Социальный фонд России) or an MFC (Multifunctional Center “Мои документы”).
• You will receive an SNILS number on the spot.

3. Register on the State Services Portal (Госуслуги)

The Russian State Services Portal (Gosuslugi) is necessary for activating your SIM card.

• Visit an MFC or a bank (such as Sberbank or VTB) to verify your identity.
• Bring your passport, notarized translation, and SNILS.
• You’ll need a Russian phone number for registration, so ask the staff for temporary solutions.
• Verification takes up to a few days.

4. Submit Your Biometrics

• Go to a bank (Sberbank or VTB) or an MFC to get your biometric data collected.
• Bring your passport, notarized translation, and SNILS.
• Your biometric profile will be registered in the Unified Biometric System on the same day.

5. Apply for a SIM Card at a Mobile Operator’s Store

Once you have SNILS, a verified Gosuslugi account, and registered biometrics, you can buy a SIM card.

• Visit a mobile operator’s official store (e.g., MTS, Beeline, MegaFon, Tele2).
• Bring your passport and notarized translation.
• Provide the IMEI (serial number) of the device where you’ll use the SIM.
• The staff will verify your identity using biometric data.

6. Activate Your SIM Card via Госуслуги

For activation, you must log in to your Gosuslugi account and confirm the registration.

• Some operators allow in-store activation with the help of the staff.
• The SIM card will only work after biometric verification.

Alternative Solutions for Tourists

If you are in Russia for a short visit, consider these options:

• Roaming: Check if your home provider has affordable roaming plans for Russia.
• Wi-Fi & Messaging Apps: Many places (as well as our schools) offer free Wi-Fi, and apps like WhatsApp and Telegram work without a Russian SIM.

 

 

Dinner for two incl. an alcoholic drink, abound USD 40.

Traveling in Russia is easy if you are a resident in Belarus. Check out our Belarus residency program.