Russia eSIM Works Again in 2026: Activation via MTS SMS Explained

This guide explains exactly how Roafly eSIM activation works in Russia in 2026, what to expect after landing, and how to fix common issues — based solely on confirmed Roafly user experiences.

What Changed: Russia eSIM Status in 2026

Throughout late 2025, many travelers experienced mobile data and SMS blocks when using foreign SIM cards and eSIMs in Russia. These restrictions affected most international providers and created confusion around whether eSIMs were still usable at all.

As of early 2026, Roafly eSIM connectivity in Russia has been restored through a verified activation flow using the MTS network.

Important clarification:

• This update is confirmed only for Roafly eSIMs

• The status of other providers may differ and cannot be guaranteed

How Roafly eSIM Activation Works in Russia (2026)

Once you arrive in Russia and your Roafly eSIM connects to the network, the activation process is straightforward.

Step-by-step activation flow

1. Receive an SMS from MTS
   Shortly after connection, you will receive an SMS from MTS containing a link.

2. Open the official MTS registration page
   The link leads to MTS’s official website. In some cases, you may be asked to complete a short registration form. This is normal.

3. Complete registration
   After submitting the form, your eSIM is provisioned successfully.

4. No 24-hour waiting period
   Based on Roafly testing, there is no enforced 24-hour delay after registration. Data access becomes available once the process is completed.

Fix: No Signal Bars After Registration

n some cases, your phone may not immediately show network bars after registration. This does not mean the activation failed.

Quick fix that works

• Turn Airplane Mode ON

• Wait a few seconds

• Turn Airplane Mode OFF

This refreshes the network connection and resolves the issue in most cases.

What Works and What Doesn’t After Activation

Here is what Roafly users should expect in Russia in 2026.

Mobile data

• Works after MTS registration

• No confirmed 24-hour blackout when using Roafly eSIM

SMS

• Activation SMS is delivered successfully

• Standard SMS functionality resumes after setup

Voice calls

• Available depending on your plan and device settings

Apps and services

• Messaging apps, maps, ride-hailing, and browsing work normally once data is active

Roafly Russia eSIM Packages

Roafly offers affordable and flexible Russia eSIM plans running on the MTS network, one of the country’s most reliable mobile operators with strong coverage in major cities and travel routes.

Available Roafly Russia eSIM plans (USD)

• 1GB / 7 days – $4.90

• 3GB / 30 days – $12.90

• 5GB / 30 days – $19.90

• 10GB / 30 days – $34.90

• 20GB / 30 days – $60.00

All prices are displayed transparently in USD, with no hidden fees.

Travelers can review the latest options and technical details directly on the Roafly Russia eSIM page, where coverage, compatibility, and setup instructions are always kept up to date.

Why travelers choose Roafly for Russia

• Reliable connectivity via the MTS network

• Competitive price-to-data ratio for short and long stays

• iOS Direct Install, QR Code, and Manual installation options

• No physical SIM, no store visits, and no passport required at purchase

For travelers continuing to other destinations before or after Russia, Roafly’s multi-country coverage makes it easy to stay connected without switching eSIM profiles or managing multiple local SIM cards.

Airport SIM vs Roafly eSIM in Russia

Airport SIM prices vary by airport and operator, but they are often significantly higher than eSIM alternatives, especially for short stays.

Important Notes About Other eSIM Providers

This article reflects Roafly-specific testing and results.

• Other international eSIM providers may still experience delays or blocks

• Activation flows and registration requirements may differ

• Roafly cannot guarantee the same outcome for non-Roafly eSIMs

For travelers who previously read about Russia’s eSIM restrictions, you may want to review our earlier breakdown explaining why the restrictions were introduced and how they affected foreign SIMs. That context is covered in our previous Russia connectivity analysis.

Tips for a Smooth Connection in Russia

Activate before you fly

Install your Roafly eSIM before departure and keep it ready to connect upon arrival.

Keep Wi-Fi as a backup

Hotel and café Wi-Fi remains useful during the initial setup phase.

Restart networks if needed

If data does not start immediately after registration, use the airplane mode fix described above.

Final Thoughts

Russia’s mobile connectivity landscape has been unpredictable, but Roafly eSIMs are working again in Russia in 2026 through verified MTS activation.

As regulations continue to evolve, Roafly monitors network behavior closely and updates travelers with tested, real-world information — not assumptions.

Check the latest Roafly eSIM packages for Russia and travel with confidence.