Tax on foreign exchange transfers: restrictions on foreign transfers hit migrants and families

In July 2023, the authorities severely limited currency transfers abroad - now money can only be transferred through official channels, with a commission and a strict limit on the amount and frequency. This affected millions of Russians living with relatives abroad, as well as migrants sending money home. People who are used to helping their relatives, paying for treatment, studying, or simply keeping in touch have faced new barriers: transfers have become more expensive, slower, and often accompanied by additional checks. Many families find themselves caught between two fires: on the one hand, the desire to support loved ones, on the other, the fear of breaking the rules and getting fines. Stories of troubles, financial difficulties, and uncertainty appeared in media chats and forums. For the state, restrictions served as a way to keep the currency within the country, protect the budget, and reduce capital outflow. For people, this has become a tangible limitation of their usual rights and connections. July 2023 reminded us: in “economic isolation,” restrictions are not only about business, but also about personal destinies, families and connections that were supported by simple transfers.