International money transfers

Direct bank transfers from Germany to Russia are largely restricted. Current workarounds include P2P crypto exchanges (buying USDT and transferring to a recipient's card in Russia) or private 'cross-border exchange' arrangements with individuals (e.g., retirees) who need to move money in the opposite direction.

Swift transfers to Russia are becoming increasingly difficult due to a reduced number of participating banks. ING-DiBA has stopped transfers to Russia. HVB (a UniCredit subsidiary) still processes transfers but with stricter checks and higher fees. Opening an account at HVB, even for German citizens born in Russia, can be a challenging process with unclear accountability.

Beware of scams advising the use of cryptocurrency exchange statements (e.g., from Bybit) as proof of funds for a German national (D) visa. German authorities (consulates, Ausländerbehörde) typically require traditional bank statements, often from German blocked accounts (Sperrkonto), or other officially recognized financial institutions to demonstrate sufficient financial means. Cryptocurrency holdings are generally not accepted as valid proof of funds for visa applications. Such proposals are likely fraudulent attempts to exploit applicants.

To exchange Russian rubles for Euros in Germany, consider peer-to-peer exchanges where individuals traveling between Russia and Germany facilitate the swap. This often involves finding specific chat groups dedicated to such transactions. Alternatively, banks offer currency exchange services, but expect a significant commission, potentially around 10% when transferring from Russia to Germany.

Paying German government invoices (e.g., for school certificate recognition/Zeugnisanerkennung) from Russia is highly restricted due to sanctions. OTP Bank is currently one of the few Russian banks still processing EUR SWIFT transfers to European IBAN accounts. Alternatively, trusted payment agents listed in verified expat community directories can be used.

Direct bank transfers from German banks to Russian Raiffeisenbank or other Russian banks are currently not possible due to international sanctions. Do not trust individuals offering 'alternative' direct wire transfer services; peer-to-peer exchanges remain the only common mechanism.

Profee has reportedly stopped its services for transfers to Russia since October of the previous year. An alternative method involves selling USDT (Tether) to a contact in Russia who will then transfer rubles to you.

Direct transfers from a German bank account to a Lithuanian card are not possible. Funds must be transferred from a German bank account to a German bank account, or through intermediary services. For non-EU cross-border transfers from Germany, Paysend is commonly used.

Legal and transparent money transfers from Russia to Germany are currently almost impossible due to sanctions and restrictions. Advise users that direct and official channels are severely limited, and 'grey schemes' carry risks with tax authorities (Finanzamt).

Informal currency exchange offers (RUB to EUR) in chat groups in Germany are highly susceptible to scams. A common tactic involves two individuals: one 'recommends' a seemingly reliable exchanger (the scammer), who then defrauds the victim. It is strongly advised to avoid such offers and only use official, regulated financial institutions for currency exchange to prevent financial loss.

It is possible to transfer money from Germany to Belarus. Services like Paysend are reported to work for such transfers. Users should verify the current functionality and any associated fees with the chosen service provider.

To make a SWIFT transfer to Germany, inquire with your bank about their current capabilities and any associated fees. Specific banks might have limitations or require different procedures due to international regulations and sanctions.