The State Duma adopted a law on the mass introduction of the digital ruble from September 1, 2026

In the second and third readings, the State Duma of Russia adopted a law that provides for the phased connection of banks and merchants to the digital ruble platform from September 1, 2026. They are also introducing the use of a universal payment QR code. The law was passed during a meeting on July 15.

"It is important that a single QR code will be provided free of charge. This optimizes the costs of credit institutions and trading enterprises, and stimulates the widespread introduction of a convenient payment service," said Anatoly Aksakov, Chairman of the State Duma Committee on the Financial Market. The meeting was broadcast on the parliamentary television of the State Duma.

Also, banks will now be required to provide customers with the opportunity to conduct transactions with digital rubles. Starting from September 1, 2026, this rule applies to systemically important credit institutions and banks recognized as significant in the payment services market. From September 1, 2027 — for banks with a universal license, from September 1, 2028 — for all other credit institutions.

The bill will exempt sellers who work in places without Internet access and communications, as well as retail facilities with revenue of less than 5 million rubles per year, from this obligation.

The rates are lower — the benefits are greater: will Russians carry money to banks

The growth rate of deposits will still remain low, analysts say.

Earlier, on June 20, Russian President Vladimir Putin called on the Central Bank and the government of the Russian Federation to accelerate preparations for scaling up the use of the digital ruble. According to him, as part of the pilot project, it was possible to work out basic operations, including opening and closing accounts, transfers between individuals and legal entities, as well as payment for goods and services.