While planning a trip to Russia, make sure your bank cards are valid and operational outside your country or a certain region. Your ability to pay for certain items upon your arrival in Russia is crucial. Before coming to Surgut, make sure to take no less than 7,000 Russian rubles. This amount of money might be enough for the first one- or two-week stay in Surgut. It is necessary to check the exchange rate of your country's national currency against the one of Russia in order to convert the equivalent of at least 7,000 rubles for your initial expenses. The remainder of your funds in US dollars or other currency can be exchanged after your arrival in Russia. You can also exchange a little amount of money upon arrival in Surgut.

Once you've arrived in Surgut, you will have to create a bank account. This needs to be done within the first two weeks upon your arrival. You will then be provided with an ATM debit card to make all required payments and purchases. Keep in mind that most banks only use Russian language, so you might need to request your curator for assistance. The bank card will also be used for transferring scholarship or fellowship (if applicable). You can convert any other currency into roubles for your expenses in Russia as soon as you get your bank card. There are many bank offices where you can exchange your currency and/or withdraw money from your account. ATMs are available in many places throughout the city.

Nearest ATM locations

1. Medical Institute (22 Energetikov St), ground floor – Sberbank ATM
2. SurGU Main Building (1 Lenin Ave), ground floor – Sberbank ATM

You can also find the nearest Sberbank office at 5 Universitetskaya Street (open Monday to Friday 9:15am to 5:30pm UTC +5)