Russian advertising law changes fast. New requirements appear regularly, and staying compliant means keeping up with the latest developments.
Here’s what freelancers working in advertising need to know, organized by when each change took effect:
Review these changes before taking on any advertising work.
1. Advertising banned on specific internet resources
Effective September 1, 2025.
You can no longer place ads on websites or platforms connected to organizations banned in Russia.
Our separate article covers everything you need to know: which sites are affected, what penalties apply if you violate the rules, and how to verify whether a website complies. See Ban on Advertising Placement on Specific Internet Resources.
2. New 3% revenue fee on advertising distribution
Started April 1, 2025.
Russia now charges a 3% quarterly fee on advertising distribution revenue, paid directly to the federal budget. This stems from new article 18.2 in 38-FZ. The fee applies to advertising distributors, agencies and intermediaries, ad system operators, and advertisers who contract with international companies for internet ad placement.
Good news for freelancers: you don’t pay this fee. Your client and Solar Staff handle it based on the contract terms.
3. Advertising data must be reported to ERIR
Active since September 1, 2022.
Before you can work on ad labeling projects through Solar Staff, you need to:
Verify your account – confirm your identity and where you live. You can complete verification anytime in the “Personal details” section.
Add your tax ID (INN) in the “Profile” section of your account.
Accept an addendum beyond the standard Solar Staff terms. When you receive your first ad labeling task, you’ll see the document and need to check a box to proceed.
These steps exist because everyone involved in advertising – including Solar Staff – must file compliance reports with Russian authorities.
Need help?
Unsure which Solar Staff data to use for reporting? Contact our support chat or email [email protected].
Having trouble with your ORD (Advertising Data Operator) account? Reach out to your chosen operator’s support team directly.