Ulaanbaatar Entry Requirements

Visa, immigration, and customs information

Ulaanbaatar, the capital of Mongolia, serves as the primary entry point for international travelers visiting this fascinating Central Asian nation. Most international visitors arrive at Chinggis Khaan International Airport, located approximately 18 kilometers southwest of the city center. Mongolia has a relatively straightforward entry process, with visa-free access for many nationalities and an electronic visa system available for others. The immigration process at Ulaanbaatar's airport is generally efficient, though it can become busy during peak travel seasons (June-September). Travelers should ensure their passport is valid for at least six months beyond their intended stay and have proof of onward travel. Mongolia's entry requirements have been modernized in recent years, with the introduction of electronic visas and expanded visa-free access to promote tourism. Understanding these requirements before departure will ensure a smooth arrival experience. Whether you're visiting for tourism, business, or transit, it's essential to have all necessary documentation prepared in advance. The Mongolian immigration authorities are generally professional and welcoming, but compliance with entry requirements is strictly enforced. This guide provides comprehensive information about visa requirements, customs regulations, and what to expect when entering Ulaanbaatar.

Visa Requirements

Entry permissions vary by nationality. Find your category below.

Mongolia offers visa-free entry to citizens of many countries, an electronic visa system for others, and traditional visa applications for the remaining nationalities. The type of authorization you need depends on your nationality and the purpose and duration of your visit.

Visa-Free Entry

30 days (some countries: 90 days)

Citizens of these countries can enter Mongolia without a visa for tourism or business purposes

Includes

United States (30 days) Canada (30 days) Japan (30 days) South Korea (30 days) Germany (30 days) France (30 days) United Kingdom (30 days) Italy (30 days) Spain (30 days) Netherlands (30 days) Sweden (30 days) Switzerland (30 days) Malaysia (30 days) Singapore (30 days) Thailand (30 days) Israel (30 days) Turkey (30 days) Russia (30 days) Belarus (30 days) Kazakhstan (90 days) Kyrgyzstan (90 days) Cuba (90 days) Laos (90 days) Philippines (21 days) Hong Kong (14 days) Macau (14 days)

Passport must be valid for at least 6 months from date of entry. Visa-free stay cannot be extended beyond the permitted duration. For stays longer than the visa-free period, you must apply for a visa before arrival or leave and re-enter (subject to immigration approval).

Electronic Visa (e-Visa)

30 days (single or double entry available)

Citizens of eligible countries can apply for an electronic visa online before travel

Includes

Australia New Zealand India China Indonesia Vietnam Brazil Argentina Mexico South Africa United Arab Emirates Saudi Arabia Many EU countries not on visa-free list Over 90 countries total eligible

How to Apply: Apply online at evisa.mn at least 10 working days before departure. Processing typically takes 5-7 working days. Upload passport copy, passport photo, and travel documents. Print the approved e-visa and present upon arrival.
Cost: Approximately USD 50-80 depending on nationality and entry type (single or double entry)

E-visa is valid for 90 days from issue date and allows a stay of up to 30 days. Payment is made online via credit card. Ensure you print the e-visa approval as you'll need to show it at immigration.

Visa Required (Embassy/Consulate)

Varies by visa type (typically 30-90 days)

Citizens of countries not eligible for visa-free entry or e-visa must apply at a Mongolian embassy or consulate

How to Apply: Apply in person or by mail at the nearest Mongolian embassy or consulate in your country. Submit completed application form, passport photos, passport valid for 6 months, invitation letter (if required), proof of accommodation, and travel itinerary. Processing time is typically 5-10 working days.

Visa fees vary by nationality and visa type. Some nationalities may require an invitation letter from a Mongolian citizen, company, or registered tour operator. Transit visas (up to 10 days) are available for those passing through Mongolia.

Arrival Process

Upon arrival at Chinggis Khaan International Airport or other ports of entry, travelers will go through immigration and customs procedures. The process is straightforward but requires proper documentation and compliance with regulations.

Disembarkation and Health Screening

Exit the aircraft and follow signs to immigration. You may pass through health screening checkpoints where temperature checks or health declarations may be required, depending on current health regulations.

Immigration Control

Join the appropriate queue (Mongolian citizens/foreigners). Present your passport, visa or e-visa (if applicable), and completed arrival card. The immigration officer will verify your documents, may ask questions about your visit, and stamp your passport with entry permission.

Baggage Claim

Proceed to the baggage claim area and collect your luggage. Check that all items have arrived and report any missing baggage to your airline's representative immediately.

Customs Declaration

Complete a customs declaration form if you're carrying items that exceed duty-free allowances or restricted items. Choose the appropriate customs channel: 'Nothing to Declare' (green) or 'Goods to Declare' (red).

Exit to Arrivals Hall

After clearing customs, proceed to the arrivals hall where you can arrange transportation, exchange currency, or meet your host/tour operator.

Documents to Have Ready

Valid Passport

Must be valid for at least 6 months beyond your intended stay in Mongolia. Must have at least one blank page for entry stamp.

Visa or e-Visa

If required based on your nationality. Print a copy of your e-visa approval if you applied online.

Arrival/Departure Card

Usually provided on the aircraft or at immigration. Fill out completely with your personal details, flight information, and accommodation address in Mongolia.

Proof of Onward Travel

Return ticket or onward travel booking. Immigration may request to see this to confirm you plan to leave within the permitted timeframe.

Accommodation Details

Hotel reservation, invitation letter, or address where you'll be staying. This information is required on the arrival card.

Customs Declaration Form

Required if you're carrying more than USD 10,000 in cash or equivalent, or items exceeding duty-free allowances.

Tips for Smooth Entry

Arrive at immigration with all documents easily accessible in a travel document holder. Having everything organized speeds up the process.

Have your accommodation address written in both English and Mongolian script if possible. This helps when completing arrival forms.

Be prepared to show proof of sufficient funds for your stay, either through cash, credit cards, or bank statements.

Keep your passport entry stamp and immigration card safe throughout your stay. You'll need to present them when departing Mongolia.

If arriving late at night or early morning, arrange airport transportation in advance as taxi availability may be limited and prices higher.

Have small denomination USD or EUR for immediate expenses at the airport, though currency exchange and ATMs are available in the arrivals hall.

Take a photo of your passport and visa with your phone as a backup in case documents are lost during your stay.

Customs & Duty-Free

Mongolia's customs regulations are designed to prevent illegal imports while allowing reasonable personal items for travelers. Understanding duty-free allowances and prohibited items will help you avoid delays or penalties at customs.

Alcohol

Up to 1 liter of spirits or 2 liters of wine

Must be 18 years or older. Alcohol must be for personal consumption only, not for resale.

Tobacco

Up to 200 cigarettes or 250 grams of tobacco products

Must be 18 years or older. For personal use only.

Currency

No limit on foreign currency, but amounts over USD 10,000 (or equivalent) must be declared

Mongolian Tugrik (MNT) can be imported/exported up to MNT 3,000,000. Failure to declare large amounts may result in confiscation and penalties.

Gifts/Goods

Personal effects and gifts with total value up to USD 500

Items must be for personal use or as gifts, not for commercial purposes. Electronics, cameras, and personal items are generally allowed without issue.

Perfume

Reasonable quantity for personal use (typically up to 50ml of perfume or 250ml of eau de toilette)

Must be in original packaging for amounts exceeding personal use quantities.

Prohibited Items

Narcotics and illegal drugs - Strict penalties including imprisonment
Weapons and ammunition - Unless special permission obtained in advance
Explosives and fireworks - Security risk
Counterfeit goods - Including fake branded items and pirated media
Pornographic materials - Strictly prohibited
Materials considered harmful to Mongolian national security or public order
Endangered species and products - Including ivory, certain furs, and protected wildlife items
Certain plants and seeds - May carry diseases or pests
Fresh meat and dairy products - Agricultural restrictions
Soil and unprocessed animal products - Disease prevention

Restricted Items

Medications - Prescription medications allowed for personal use with doctor's prescription and in original packaging. Declare at customs if carrying large quantities
Cultural artifacts and antiques - Export of Mongolian cultural items strictly controlled; import of foreign antiques may require documentation
Hunting equipment - Requires special permits from Mongolian authorities
Professional photography/video equipment - May require temporary import permit for commercial use
Drones and radio equipment - Requires special permission; recreational drones may be restricted in certain areas
Large amounts of cash - Over USD 10,000 must be declared on arrival
Pets and animals - Require health certificates, vaccination records, and import permits (see special situations section)
Gold, precious metals, and gems - Commercial quantities require special documentation

Health Requirements

Mongolia has specific health requirements for entry, though they are less stringent than many countries. However, travelers should take health precautions seriously due to the country's climate and remote areas.

Required Vaccinations

No vaccinations are mandatory for entry into Mongolia for most travelers
Yellow fever vaccination certificate required if arriving from or transiting through a yellow fever endemic country

Recommended Vaccinations

Routine vaccinations - Ensure up-to-date on routine vaccines (MMR, DPT, polio)
Hepatitis A - Recommended for all travelers due to potential food/water contamination
Hepatitis B - Recommended for those who may have intimate contact with locals or require medical treatment
Typhoid - Recommended for travelers visiting smaller cities or rural areas
Rabies - Recommended for adventure travelers, those working with animals, or visiting remote areas
Japanese Encephalitis - Consider if traveling during summer months in rural areas
Tick-borne Encephalitis - Recommended for those planning extensive outdoor activities
Influenza - Particularly for winter travel

Health Insurance

Travel health insurance is strongly recommended but not mandatory for entry. Mongolia's medical facilities are limited outside Ulaanbaatar, and medical evacuation can be extremely expensive. Ensure your policy covers emergency evacuation, hospitalization, and repatriation. Some tour operators may require proof of insurance. Keep insurance documents and emergency contact numbers accessible at all times.

Current Health Requirements: Health requirements can change rapidly, particularly regarding COVID-19 and other infectious diseases. Check the latest requirements on the Mongolian Ministry of Health website and with your airline before departure. Some periods may require: negative PCR tests, quarantine upon arrival, health declaration forms, or proof of vaccination. Register with your country's embassy upon arrival for health and safety updates during your stay.

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Important Contacts

Essential resources for your trip.

Immigration Authority

Mongolian Immigration Agency - Official website: immigration.gov.mn

For visa applications, extensions, and official immigration information. E-visa applications: evisa.mn

Emergency Services

Emergency number: 102 (Police), 103 (Fire), 104 (Ambulance), or unified emergency: 105

For police, medical emergencies, and fire services. English may be limited; have a Mongolian speaker assist if possible.

Embassy/Consulate

Find your country's embassy or consulate in Ulaanbaatar

Register with your embassy upon arrival for extended stays. Most embassies are in the diplomatic quarter. Check your government's travel advisory website before departure.

Airport Information

Chinggis Khaan International Airport (New UBN Airport): +976-7010-1111

For flight information, lost baggage, and airport services. The new international airport opened in 2021, replacing the old Buyant-Ukhaa airport.

Tourist Information

Mongolian Tourism Board - tourism.gov.mn

For travel information, registered tour operators, and tourist assistance

Customs Authority

Mongolian Customs General Administration - customs.gov.mn

For customs regulations, duty information, and prohibited items inquiries

Special Situations

Additional requirements for specific circumstances.

Traveling with Children

Children must have their own passport with at least 6 months validity. Minors (under 18) traveling without both parents should carry: notarized letter of consent from absent parent(s) in English and Mongolian if possible, birth certificate or custody documents, and contact information for parents/guardians. Children are subject to the same visa requirements as adults. Some airlines require additional documentation for unaccompanied minors. If child has different surname from accompanying adult, bring documentation proving relationship.

Traveling with Pets

Pets entering Mongolia require: valid rabies vaccination certificate (at least 30 days before arrival, not older than 12 months), veterinary health certificate issued within 10 days of travel, import permit from Mongolian Veterinary Authority (apply in advance), microchip identification (recommended), and treatment for parasites. Some breeds may be restricted. Pets must enter through Chinggis Khaan International Airport. Quarantine may be required if documentation is incomplete. Contact the Mongolian Veterinary and Animal Breeding Agency well in advance: vetmed.gov.mn. Airlines have specific pet transport requirements - confirm with your carrier.

Extended Stays

Tourist visas and visa-free stays cannot typically be extended beyond the initial permitted duration. For longer stays, you must: apply for a long-term visa before arrival (work, study, or business visa), exit Mongolia and re-enter (not guaranteed and subject to immigration approval), or apply for residence permit if eligible. Work and business visas require invitation from Mongolian company or organization. Student visas require acceptance letter from Mongolian educational institution. Overstaying your visa results in fines (approximately USD 15-30 per day) and potential entry ban. Register with local authorities within 7 days if staying over 30 days.

Business Travelers

Business travelers may enter visa-free (if eligible nationality) or with business visa. For business visa: invitation letter from Mongolian company or partner organization, business registration documents, and purpose of visit documentation required. Business activities on tourist visa/visa-free entry are limited to meetings and negotiations - no paid work permitted. For extended business stays or employment, work permit and long-term visa required. Register business activities with relevant Mongolian authorities if establishing operations.

Transit Passengers

Transit passengers remaining in the international zone do not need a visa. If leaving the airport during transit: visa-free nationals can exit for up to their permitted duration, others need transit visa (up to 10 days) or regular visa. Transit visa available at Mongolian embassies - requires proof of onward ticket and visa for final destination (if required). Ensure sufficient time between connections as the new airport is 18km from the city center.

Journalists and Media

Journalists, photographers, and film crews require special accreditation from the Mongolian Ministry of Foreign Affairs and may need special visas. Apply well in advance through Mongolian embassy with: letter from media organization, detailed itinerary, purpose of coverage, and areas to be visited. Commercial filming requires additional permits. Drone usage for media purposes requires special authorization. Violating media regulations can result in deportation and equipment confiscation.