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Wise Blocks Cards for Russian and Belarusian Users Without EEA or Swiss Residency

The company cites the EU’s 19th sanctions package restricting payment services to certain Russian or Belarusian nationals.

Overview

  • Physical and virtual Wise cards are disabled for purchases, cash withdrawals, and subscription payments until documents are verified.
  • Affected customers must submit proof of citizenship in an EEA country or valid residency in the EEA or Switzerland by January 30, 2026.
  • Accounts remain open for sending, receiving, holding, and converting funds despite the card freeze.
  • Reporting indicates a long‑stay D visa was previously accepted for onboarding but now may not suffice, while activists say the European Commission is preparing guidance on D‑visa holders’ residency status.
  • Similar restrictions were earlier introduced by Paysera and Revolut following the EU’s latest sanctions framework.