Electronic Card Instead of a Passport

Russians can soon obtain electronic cards as additional identification documents, the government announces. The smart card will not replace existing passports. It will have a number of useful properties, such as a link to owner’s bank account, ability to use it as payment option for various goods and to pay for public transport, or to use various government services. The Russian government claims that this card will be issued free of charge for all Russian citizens and will operate throughout the country. However, electronic ID card is not compulsory, and government has no plans to abolish common passports.