Coronavirus in Moscow: key information

On 19 July, Moscow authorities lifted restrictions on visiting restaurants, bars, and nightclubs and reopened children's playrooms and sports grounds. But even though the COVID-19 situation in the Russian capital is improving, the city is still fighting the pandemic, so local residents and tourists may be asked to show a negative PCR test or a dedicated QR code when visiting certain locations.

Why you need a QR code and where to get one

Moscow Mayor Sergey Sobyanin has lifted the ban on visiting restaurants without a QR code: it is now up to the establishments to decide whether or not to request QR codes from their visitors. Aside from public eating spaces, this rule also applies to other locations that may get crowded, like parks and museums. Right now you need a QR code to visit the Tsaritsyno Museum expositions (access to the surrounding park is unrestricted), the Kuskovo Estate Museum, and some other museums. We recommend contacting the location in advance or visiting their website to find out whether or not you need a QR code.

QR codes are granted to those who have been vaccinated or had COVID-19 in the past six months, as well as to people with negative PCR tests, valid for 72 hours since registration at the laboratory. Russian citizens can get a QR code in their personal profile on the Gosuslugi government service portal. Only digital QR codes are accepted.

Visitors from other countries won't get deprived of museums and galleries either. If you are a foreign citizen, you can get your QR code at Immun.mos.ru. You will be asked to provide your personal details such as first and last name, date of birth, phone number, and passport information.

QR codes in Moscow are granted to foreign citizens who have been residing in Russia and have had COVID-19 in the past six months, have been vaccinated while in Russia, or hold a valid negative PCR test. The test must be taken at a laboratory connected to the United Medical Information and Analytical System. The list of such laboratories is available on the website of the Moscow Healthcare Department.

Where to take a PCR test

In Moscow, you can take a PCR test for COVID-19 at a state-run outpatient clinic or a private laboratory. The Russian capital currently has 207 free testing points; you can book an appointment with one of them on the mos.ru website or offline at the clinic. Make sure to bring your ID and insurance certificate. If you are taking your test at a private clinic, you will only need your ID; it is best to pick a certified laboratory with multiple offices around the city. You can get tested for antibodies at the same locations, but in order to get a QR code, you specifically need a PCR test.

Where to get vaccinated

Moscow has over 120 vaccination points at the moment. If you want to get vaccinated at a clinic, you can book an appointment at mos.ru. Alternatively, go to a Healthy Moscow pavilion or one of the mobile vaccination stations located in parks and malls around the city—those do not require a prior appointment.

Cover: mos.ru