According to the Russian Ministry of Digital Development (Mintsifry), a mandatory IMEI code registration procedure is expected to be introduced for smartphones imported from abroad that have not passed customs control. This rule will apply to individuals who have personally brought a phone from abroad or purchased a counterfeit device.
Devices that fail to register within the specified period will be disconnected from service on Russian mobile networks. An option will be created to register the device via the "Gosuslugi" portal within two weeks. All devices operating on Russian networks before April 2027 will continue to function regardless of registration. Equipment purchased at official retail outlets will be entered into the database automatically.
Experts estimate that this measure could lead to up to 70 percent of sellers involved in "gray" imports leaving the market, and the price of some smartphone models could increase by up to 40 percent.
New restrictions on mobile numbers are also being implemented in Russia. Starting November 1, 2025, a limit of 10 numbers in total across all operators has been set for foreign citizens. SIM cards of users who have numbers exceeding this limit may be blocked.
