Recent notices from the Russian Association of Motor Insurers clarify changes to Green Card certificates for civil liability insurance when driving outside Russia. The key point is that Green Card insurance certificates issued in Russia expired on June 1, 2023 for travel to the European Union, the United Kingdom, and Switzerland. This development stands as a result of bilateral agreements no longer being in effect as of that date, according to RAMI.
As a consequence, Russian drivers planning trips to EU member states, the UK, or Switzerland will need to acquire a border insurance policy at the entry checkpoints of the respective countries. In practice, border insurance acts as a temporary coverage specifically valid at the national border and during transit on foreign soil. Conversely, drivers arriving from these regions will be required to present a Russian OSAGO policy when entering Russia. This reciprocal approach ensures that liability coverage is recognized at points of entry and exit and aligns with the termination of the bilateral arrangements that previously governed such cross-border coverage.
Certificates issued within Russia remain valid for travel to countries where the Green Card system is still recognized. This includes Armenia, Azerbaijan, Belarus, Moldova, Serbia, and Turkey. Travelers should verify the current status of Green Card agreements before departure since rules can change with shifts in international treaties and insurer collaborations.
There is also a broader context to these developments. Russia has been updating its automobile production and regulatory framework, including Simplified technical regulations for vehicle manufacturing. These updates can influence mandatory insurance requirements, cross-border coverage, and compliance practices for drivers and insurers alike. Stakeholders are advised to consult official RAMI releases and national authorities for the latest guidance on international motor third-party liability coverage and border insurance obligations.