Starting September 1, 2026, new rules governing cryptocurrency transactions came into effect in Russia. The changes affect Bitcoin, Ethereum, USDT, crypto exchange services, and users of digital assets.

IXIDE explains what has changed in the Russian crypto market and what the new rules may mean for people who buy or exchange cryptocurrency.

What changed on September 1

New legislation establishing rules for cryptocurrency transactions through regulated infrastructure has come into force in Russia.

The new framework provides for the participation of brokers, crypto exchange services, digital depositories, and other financial institutions. Cryptocurrency transactions are becoming available to both qualified and non-qualified investors, provided that the applicable requirements are met.

This is an important change for the Russian market: cryptocurrency is gradually moving from a relatively separate segment toward a more formalized financial infrastructure.

Bitcoin, Ethereum and USDT are among the key available assets

The Bank of Russia has identified three cryptocurrencies that meet the criteria for public access by non-qualified investors:

Bitcoin (BTC)
Ethereum (ETH)
Tether USDT

The criteria include market capitalization, liquidity, average daily trading volume, and the asset’s price history.

For non-qualified investors, a purchase limit of up to 300,000 RUB per year through one intermediary is предусмотрен, while users must also pass a test assessing their understanding of the associated risks before carrying out transactions.

Why USDT is especially important for the Russian crypto market

Tether USDT deserves particular attention.

USDT remains one of the most widely used stablecoins and is commonly used for holding digital dollar liquidity, transferring funds between wallets, and conducting transactions across the cryptocurrency market.

Therefore, the inclusion of USDT among the most liquid crypto assets may further increase interest in searches related to buying and exchanging stablecoins.

Users continue to pay attention not only to the USDT exchange rate itself, but also to the conditions of a particular exchange direction: payment method, available reserves, blockchain network, fees, and AML/KYC requirements.

What this means for cryptocurrency exchange

As regulation develops, requirements for crypto market infrastructure are likely to become increasingly important.

When choosing a cryptocurrency exchange service, users should pay particular attention to:

the conditions of the selected exchange direction, the final exchange rate, available reserves, the correct blockchain network, and AML/KYC requirements.

For example, when exchanging USDT → RUB or RUB → USDT, the final conditions may vary depending on the bank, payment method, selected blockchain network, and current market conditions.

This is why the exchange rate displayed on the screen is not always the only factor that should be considered when comparing exchange options.

Can cryptocurrency now be used to pay for goods and services in Russia?

No. The new cryptocurrency rules do not make Bitcoin or USDT a regular means of payment within Russia.

Cryptocurrencies and stablecoins may be bought and sold under the established regulatory framework, but they cannot be used to pay for goods and services inside the country.

This also distinguishes cryptocurrencies from the digital ruble, which is an official form of Russia’s national currency.

Why the new rules matter for the market

Until recently, a significant part of the Russian cryptocurrency market operated separately from the traditional financial infrastructure.

A system is now emerging in which the rules for buyers, intermediaries, and professional market participants are becoming much clearer.

For the crypto industry, this may mean greater attention to:

AML/KYC procedures, transaction transparency, the origin of digital assets, and the quality of cryptocurrency exchange services.

At the same time, the risks associated with cryptocurrencies remain. The value of Bitcoin and Ethereum can fluctuate significantly, while stablecoin transactions require careful verification of both the blockchain network and the recipient’s wallet address.

IXIDE Opinion

At IXIDE, we believe that the emergence of clearer rules for cryptocurrency transactions is a natural stage in the development of the market.

It is particularly notable that Bitcoin, Ethereum and USDT are specifically recognized among the most liquid digital assets, as these assets account for a significant share of user demand in the cryptocurrency market.

For users, the key principles remain the same: a transparent exchange rate, correct payment details, verification of the cryptocurrency wallet address, compliance with AML/KYC procedures, and careful review of the exchange order terms.

As regulation continues to develop, services that make digital asset transactions clearer, safer, and more transparent for users are likely to gain an advantage.

IXIDE: New Crypto Rules in Russia — Bitcoin, Ethereum and USDT Receive Special Status