Moscow Metro Tests Digital Ruble Payments for a Smarter Transit Experience

Moscow Metro strides into the future, testing a new payment method — digital rubles. This ambitious project is designed to make trips even more convenient for passengers, reinforcing Moscow's status as a global leader in the diversity of payment methods in public transport. This was announced by the deputy mayor of the capital for transport and industry, Maxim Liksutov.

What are digital rubles?

Digital ruble is the third form of the Russian national currency, developed by the Central Bank of Russia. It complements traditional cash and cashless money, providing users with a secure and modern payment method. One digital ruble is equivalent to one cash ruble, making its use simple and straightforward. The development of this technology has been underway since 2020, and it is currently being tested with the participation of 15 banks.

How to pay for transit with digital rubles?

The process of paying for transit with digital rubles is extremely simple and intuitive. For this, the passenger needs to:

1. Install your bank's mobile app on your smartphone.
2. Find the universal QR code in the metro ticket zone.
3. Open the app, scan the QR code with your phone's camera.
4. Select the digital ruble (or rapid payment system) as the method of payment.
5. Confirm the transaction.

After that, the funds are instantly credited to the “Troika” card — a popular transport card used for paying for rides in the metro, buses, and trams in Moscow. The new method simplifies both purchasing the card and topping up its balance.

Current stage of testing

Currently, testing of payment with digital rubles is being conducted in a closed mode jointly with the Bank of Russia and VTB. The experiment involves a focus group that has already successfully acquired several “Troika” cards and topped them up using digital currency through a QR code. This stage allows the authorities and banks to thoroughly analyze the accuracy of transaction processing and fine-tune the system before its launch for a wider audience. As noted by Maxim Liksutov: “Moscow is a global leader in the number of payment methods in public transport. In the future, passengers will be able to pay for transit using the digital ruble, which will be available alongside cash and cashless payments.”

Advantages for passengers

The introduction of digital rubles in the metro promises to make the payment process even more convenient and faster. The use of QR codes and mobile applications eliminates the need to carry cash or bank cards. This is especially relevant for Moscow, which already offers passengers numerous payment options, and with the addition of digital rubles, it reinforces its leadership in this area. The technology not only simplifies daily trips but also demonstrates the city’s commitment to innovation and the comfort of its residents.

Prospects and challenges

In the future, digital rubles will become an integral part of the Moscow Metro’s payment system. Initially, a mass launch was planned for July 1, 2025, but the timelines have been shifted at the request of the banks participating in the project. This was reported by the chairman of the Central Bank, Elvira Nabiullina, on February 27, clarifying that a new date will be announced later. Despite the delay, the pilot project is progressing successfully: it involves 1700 citizens and around 30 companies, which confirms the initiative’s potential. The delay provides additional time for refining the system to ensure its reliability and security.

Conclusion

Testing payment for transit with digital rubles in the Moscow Metro is an important step in the development of financial technologies in Russia. This project not only enhances convenience for passengers but also paves the way for broader adoption of digital currency in everyday life. As the trials conclude and all technical issues are resolved, Moscow continues to set the pace in the field of innovation, offering modern and practical solutions for transit payments to both residents and visitors.