Now border guards can check electronic devices – smartphones, tablets, laptops and other gadgets – of everyone entering or leaving Russia at train stations and airports.
Amendments to the Federal Law of Russia “On the State Border” from April 2026 entered into force which expanded the powers of the FXX Border Service.
Now border guards can check electronic devices – smartphones, tablets, laptops and other gadgets – of everyone entering or leaving Russia at train stations and airports.
The inspection is carried out when the following grounds exist: in case of suspicion of violation of the border regime, smuggling, extremism or other offenses. The law does not provide for a full public examination of everyone – the examination is selective, but mandatory in case of doubt.
What does the rejection end with? If a border guard demands a device for inspection, and a citizen refuses, this can be considered as disobedience to a lawful order. According to the Code of Administrative Responsibility of Russia, the punishment is a fine of 5,000 to 7,000 rubles or administrative imprisonment of up to 15 days.
Similar practices of checking electronic devices have long been in place in many countries, including the United States, Canada, and the European Union. The changes are aimed at strengthening border control. So far, practice has shown that certain categories of citizens often receive increased attention, but officially the right applies to everyone.
