Current Situation: What is Happening with Transfers from Russia?
Since 2022, sanctions on Russia have made money transfers a complex task. Many Russian banks have been disconnected from SWIFT, and Israeli banks enforce strict compliance checks. However, legal solutions exist.
Russian Banks Under Sanctions (SWIFT Blocked)
- ✗Sberbank
- ✗VTB
- ✗Alfa-Bank
- ✗Bank Otkritie
- ✗Sovcombank
- ✗Promsvyazbank
Russian Banks Still Operating (SWIFT Active)
- ✓Gazprombank (with limitations)
- ✓Rosbank
- ⚠Tinkoff (some restrictions)
- ✓Some regional banks
4 Ways to Transfer Money from Russia to Israel
SWIFT Transfer via Non-Sanctioned Banks
The most direct method - transfer from a Russian bank still connected to SWIFT to an Israeli bank.
Pros:
- • Direct and legal transfer
- • Full documentation
- • Time: 3-7 business days
Cons:
- • Requires non-sanctioned bank
- • Extensive compliance checks
- • Higher fees
Transfer via Third Country
Open an account in a "neutral" country and transfer from there to Israel. Common countries: UAE, Turkey, Georgia, Kazakhstan.
Pros:
- • Bypasses sanctioned banks
- • High flexibility
Cons:
- • Requires additional account
- • Extra time and costs
- • Double compliance
Cryptocurrency (USDT, Bitcoin)
Buy crypto in Russia and sell in Israel. Legal, but requires understanding of tax implications.
Pros:
- • Bypasses banking system
- • Fast: hours to days
Cons:
- • Compliance on fiat conversion
- • Price volatility
- • Risk of errors
Physical Cash Transfer
Withdraw cash in Russia and bring it to Israel on a flight. Legal up to certain limits.
Important: Over $10,000 requires customs declaration. Over $100,000 requires detailed explanations.
Pros:
- • Completely bypasses banks
- • Immediate
Cons:
- • Limited amounts
- • Theft/loss risk
- • Declaration requirements
Required Documentation
Israeli banks require complete documentation of the source of funds. Without this, transfers will be blocked. If you are considering buying property in Israel, prepare documents in advance.
Basic Document Package:
Frequently Asked Questions
Need Help with Money Transfers?
RealFix Finance is a One Stop Shop with 5 CPAs and 7 attorneys. We specialize in international transfers and have been helping Olim from Russia since 1999.
- 100% client-side representation
- Payment based on success only
- Direct contacts with bank compliance departments
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Legal Disclaimer
The information and simulations presented on this website are for illustrative purposes only and do not constitute a binding offer for credit or financial advice. Credit Approval: Subject to final underwriting, clean credit data (positive credit score), clean banking history, and meeting the threshold requirements of the financing institutions. Interest Rates: The interest rates displayed are estimates only, based on average market data, and may change at any time according to the client's individual risk profile and economic conditions (Bank of Israel interest rate changes / CPI). No Commitment: RealFix does not guarantee loan approval or the terms displayed in the calculator. E&OE.