Poker in Russia

Is poker legal in Russia?

Live poker is legal only inside four designated 'gambling zones' established by the 2006 law (effective 2009): Krasnaya Polyana (near Sochi), Primorye (near Vladivostok), Azov-City/Krasnodar Krai, and Yantarnaya in Kaliningrad. Outside these zones, casinos and card rooms are banned. Online poker exists in a gray area — international sites operate but many block Russian IPs post-2022; VPN use is common.

Where are Russia's four gambling zones?

Established under the 2006 federal law that took effect July 1, 2009: (1) Krasnaya Polyana near Sochi — home to Sochi Casino & Resort, the country's major poker venue since 2017. (2) Primorye near Vladivostok in the Far East. (3) Azov-City in Krasnodar Krai (largely defunct, replaced by Sochi zone). (4) Yantarnaya in Kaliningrad on the Baltic. All casinos in Moscow, St. Petersburg, and other cities were shut down in 2009.

Can Russians play on PokerStars and GGPoker?

Mixed. Before 2022, PokerStars, GGPoker, and partypoker openly served Russian players. After the February 2022 invasion of Ukraine, many international sites restricted or suspended Russian accounts under sanctions and corporate policy. GGPoker continues with Russian-language support. PokerStars limited new Russian sign-ups. Many Russian players use VPNs to access international sites; payment via crypto has grown sharply.

Who are the top Russian poker players?

Vitaly Lunkin — first Russian WSOP bracelet winner (2008, $1,500 NLHE Shootout) and later $40K Anniversary winner. Alexander Kostritsyn ('PostflopAction') — legendary online high-stakes heads-up NLHE cash specialist. Vladimir Schemelev — multi-bracelet PLO crusher. Igor Kurganov — $21M+ live earnings, 2 WSOP bracelets, EPT champion. Maxim Lykov and Andrey Pateychuk — WSOP bracelet winners. Strong PLO and HU tradition.

How are poker winnings taxed in Russia?

Russia applies a 13% flat personal income tax (NDFL) on gambling winnings under the 2014 reforms. For winnings above 15,000 rubles, the casino or operator withholds tax at source. Players are responsible for declaring winnings from foreign online sites on their annual return. The 13% rate is among the lowest globally for gambling income — significantly below India (30%) or Germany's situation.