Google Play is a platform for distributing applications, games, music, movies, books, and other digital media. It comes pre-installed on most Android devices. The platform is a key component of the Google ecosystem and plays an important role in the mobile industry.

Until recently, users from Russia contributed over $2 billion in annual revenue. However, the situation changed in 2022 following the introduction of sanctions. The service is still available in Russia, but numerous restrictions have been imposed. The most significant of these is the inability to perform financial transactions. In this article, we will delve deeper into how to pay for Google Play in Russia.

To achieve this goal, we might need to purchase a virtual number. For example, to create virtual cards for foreign banks or register a new Gmail account. The SMSBOWER service offers low prices, a wide selection, and a user-friendly interface.

What Restrictions Apply to Google Play for Russian Users?

The inability to top up and pay for Google Play is only part of the problem. A wide range of restrictions is in place:

• Blocking of in-game purchases.
• Restrictions on app subscriptions.
• Inability to update certain apps (especially paid ones).
• Unavailability of Google Play Pass subscriptions for new users.
• Restrictions on access to Google Play Movies & TV and Music.
• Some content may be unavailable due to regional blocks.

Users can still download and use free apps. Previously purchased items remain accessible.

This does not mean that topping up and paying for Google Play in Russia in 2024 is impossible. There are many workarounds, which we will explore in detail.

How to Pay for Google Play Using a Foreign Bank Card

This is the most effective method, albeit with certain complexities. You will first need to create a new payment profile in your account. It is recommended to use the IP address of the country to which the card belongs. This will allow you to top up and pay for Google Play in Russia without the risk of rejection. Security algorithms perform a one-time verification. Afterward, you can stop using a different IP address.

The most challenging part here is obtaining a foreign bank card. It is not necessary to issue a physical card or personally visit another country. In today’s digital age, there are many simpler and more convenient methods. For instance, the system allows you to pay for a game on Google Play or top up your balance using a virtual card.

The most popular offers come from Turkish banks. They allow you to issue a virtual card online. A foreign passport is required for this. It is important to note that the allowable transfer amounts for such cards range from 2,000 to 10,000 rubles. In practice, this is sufficient to make a purchase on Google Play.

Our blog has detailed how to create a virtual card from a Turkish bank.

How to Top Up Google Play Using Payment Services

There are many intermediaries offering their services. This is a straightforward method that does not require obtaining foreign bank cards or dealing with other complexities. The main drawback is the commission fee, which can reach up to 20%.

Here is the standard process for how to pay through Google Play in Russia using an intermediary:

1. Contact an intermediary who will provide the contact details of a personal manager.
2. The manager will calculate the cost of the service and explain the terms.
3. Transfer the required amount to the service.
4. Receive the card details to be entered into your account's payment information.

Detailed instructions for unclear steps are available on the intermediaries’ websites. It is important to note that access to your account is not required. Reliable resources such as Plati.Market are often recommended.

How to Top Up Google Play in Russia Using a Gift Card

Another relatively simple method, though it requires meeting several conditions.

A gift card is a special code that allows you to top up your Google Play balance by a specific amount. Activation is done on the corresponding page. Here are the conditions:

• A Russian account cannot use this option.
• Gift cards are valid for a specific country (must match the country of the account's payment profile).
• You must change your IP address to the corresponding country.

Unlike previous methods, simply changing the payment profile no longer works. You need an account registered in the required country. Otherwise, there is a high likelihood that the transaction will be canceled by security algorithms. You will need to register a new account, preferably using a Turkish phone number.

Gift cards can be purchased on various websites. Expect a markup of 15-30%, and it is advisable to check the seller's reviews.

FAQs

Can I Pay for Google Play with a MIR Card?

Currently, it is not possible to pay directly with MIR cards. There is no direct integration between these payment systems.

Are There Alternatives to Paying for Apps on Google Play from Russia?

Yes, you can use other app stores available in Russia. Some developers offer APK files for download directly from their websites.

How Can I Make In-Game Payments Without Google Play?

For Android smartphones, there are many alternatives. These include AppGallery, gift cards, offers from mobile operators, or virtual wallets discussed earlier. Note that in some cases, you may need to change your IP address.