In the title complex, [RuCl2 (C16H36N4)]I-3, the overall symmetry of the centrosymmetric cation is approximately C-2h and the I-3(-) anions are slightly asymmetric. The I ... I distance is 4.313 (1) Angstrom. The cations and the linear anions are arranged in alternate layers and thus form the intercalating structure.