Russia Requires Crypto Exchanges to Register with Central Bank
Starting October 5, 2026, cryptocurrency exchanges and digital custody institutions in Russia must register with the Central Bank of Russia to operate legally. The new rules apply to crypto exchanges, digital custody services, and information systems generating digital financial rights. The Central Bank has outlined the application process, including required documents, managerial qualifications, and evaluation criteria for registration.
The registration system does not automatically grant approval to existing crypto companies. They must still submit their documents and undergo evaluation by the Central Bank. A simplified application process has been introduced for some existing operators, but official registration is not guaranteed.
While the new rules mark the beginning of a formal application and verification system, they do not signify unrestricted access to cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin or Ethereum for all investors in Russia. The regulations regarding the types of assets individual investors can access and under what conditions are still being developed separately.
The Central Bank will publish and update information about registered companies on its website. The entry into force of these rules does not yet mean that all applications have been approved or that a fully free cryptocurrency market has opened in the country.