Moving to Mongolia

Moving Guide

Visa & Residence

Navigating the visa and residence permit process for Mongolia largely depends on your nationality and the purpose of your stay. For citizens of the European Union and many other Western countries, short-term tourist visits often benefit from visa-free entry agreements. However, for any stay intended for work, family reunification, study, or long-term residence, a specific visa and subsequent residence permit will be required.

• Work Visa/Permit: Typically sponsored by an employer in Mongolia. This process often requires documentation from both the applicant and the sponsoring company.
• Family Visa/Permit: For individuals joining a spouse or family member who is already a resident or citizen of Mongolia. Proof of relationship and the sponsor's legal status is essential.
• Study Visa/Permit: Issued to students enrolled in Mongolian educational institutions. An acceptance letter from a recognized institution is a primary requirement.
• Residence Permit: After entering Mongolia on an appropriate visa, you will generally need to apply for a residence permit to legalize your long-term stay. The type of residence permit will align with your visa category.

It is crucial to verify the most current requirements, application procedures, and necessary documentation directly with the official Mongolian diplomatic mission in your home country or the Mongolian Immigration Agency. Regulations can change, and official sources provide the most accurate and up-to-date information.

Housing & Rental

Finding suitable housing in Mongolia, particularly in Ulaanbaatar, can be an interesting experience. The market offers a range of options from modern apartments to traditional ger districts, though most expatriates opt for apartments in established residential areas.

• How to Find Housing:
  • Real Estate Agents: This is the most common and often most efficient method, especially for those unfamiliar with the local market. Agents can provide listings, arrange viewings, and assist with negotiations and contracts.
  • Online Portals & Social Media: A growing number of local websites and expat social media groups feature rental listings. While offering direct contact, be mindful of language barriers and verify information carefully.
  • Word of Mouth: Networking with other expatriates or locals can sometimes lead to opportunities not advertised elsewhere.
• Typical Rental Process: Once you find a suitable property, you will usually sign a rental agreement (lease). It's advisable to have this document translated into English and reviewed by a local contact or legal professional if possible. The agreement will specify the rental period, monthly rent, and terms for utilities.
• Deposits: A security deposit is standard, typically equivalent to one or two months' rent. This deposit is held by the landlord and is refundable at the end of the tenancy, provided the property is returned in good condition.
• Temporary vs. Long-Term: Many newcomers opt for temporary accommodation (hotel, serviced apartment, or short-term rental) for the first few weeks or months upon arrival. This allows time to explore different neighborhoods, understand the market, and secure a long-term lease without pressure.

What Affects the Cost of Your Move

The total cost of relocating to Mongolia is influenced by several key factors, making each move unique. Understanding these elements can help you budget effectively for your international relocation.

• Volume of Goods: The more items you ship, the higher the cost. This is typically measured in cubic meters (m³) or by weight. Decluttering before you move is one of the most effective ways to reduce expenses.
• Distance: The geographical distance between your current location and Mongolia directly impacts transportation costs. Longer distances generally incur higher shipping fees.
• Seasonality: Peak moving seasons (often summer months) can sometimes see higher demand and potentially higher prices for shipping and related services.
• Access and Logistics: The ease of access at both your origin and destination can affect costs. Challenges like narrow streets, lack of elevators, or remote locations requiring specialized equipment or additional labor will add to the overall expense. Mongolia's unique infrastructure, especially outside Ulaanbaatar, can sometimes present specific logistical considerations.
• Type of Transportation: Air freight is significantly faster but also considerably more expensive than sea freight. A combination of both is often used, with essential items sent by air and bulkier items by sea.
• Additional Services: Opting for services like professional packing, unpacking, storage, insurance, or special handling for delicate/valuable items will increase the overall cost. Customs clearance and any duties or taxes in Mongolia will also be a factor.

For an accurate estimate tailored to your specific needs, it is always recommended to request a free, no-obligation quote.

Timeline & Packing Tips

A well-organized timeline and strategic packing can significantly reduce stress during your move to Mongolia. Here's a general checklist-style guide for a 4-8 week preparation period.

• 8 Weeks Before Moving:
  • Declutter: Start sorting through your belongings. Decide what to keep, sell, donate, or discard. This is crucial for reducing shipping volume.
  • Research Visas & Residence: Confirm all requirements and begin gathering necessary documents.
  • Get Quotes: Contact international moving companies for free quotes for your shipment.
  • Medical Check-up: Get any necessary medical check-ups and ensure prescriptions are up to date. Obtain copies of medical records.
• 6 Weeks Before Moving:
  • Book Your Move: Confirm your moving company and schedule your packing and shipping dates.
  • Gather Important Documents: Collect passports, birth certificates, marriage licenses, academic records, professional certifications, and financial statements. Keep these in a secure, easily accessible folder that you will carry with you.
  • Notify Utilities & Services: Inform landlords, utility companies (electricity, gas, internet), and subscription services of your departure date.
  • Begin Packing Non-Essentials: Start packing items you won't need in the weeks leading up to your move.
• 4 Weeks Before Moving:
  • Arrange for Mail Forwarding: Set up mail forwarding to a new address or a trusted contact.
  • Financial Preparations: Inform your bank of your move, research banking options in Mongolia, and arrange for international transfers if needed.
  • Pet Preparations: If moving with pets, confirm all veterinary requirements, vaccinations, and travel arrangements.
  • Inventory: Create a detailed inventory of all items being shipped for insurance and customs purposes.
• 2 Weeks Before Moving:
  • Confirm Travel Arrangements: Finalize flights and temporary accommodation in Mongolia.
  • Pack Essentials Box: Prepare a box with items you'll need immediately upon arrival (toiletries, a change of clothes, basic medications, chargers, important documents).
  • Charge Devices: Ensure all electronic devices are charged for travel.
• 1 Week Before Moving:
  • Confirm Addresses: Double-check all delivery addresses and contact information for your moving company.
  • Clean Out Fridge/Pantry: Start consuming perishable items.
  • Final Pack: Finish packing remaining items, leaving out only what you need for the last few days.
• Packing Tips:
  • Label Clearly: Label all boxes with their contents and the room they belong to.
  • Use Quality Materials: Invest in sturdy boxes, bubble wrap, and packing tape.
  • Don't Overpack Boxes: Heavy boxes are harder to move and more prone to breaking.
  • Keep Valuables Separate: Carry important documents, jewelry, and irreplaceable items with you.

Get a free quote for your move to Mongolia today on relocation123.com.

Visas, immigration & documents

Moving to this country often involves visas, residence permits, document translation/legalization and customs paperwork. Our verified partners handle the move itself; for visa or immigration help, send the request below and we'll point you the right way.

• Residence permit / visa (work, study, family)
• Document translation & apostille
• Customs clearance for personal effects
• Travel & goods insurance

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Customs & Import Rules

Moving to Mongolia: Your Essential Customs & Import Guide

Relocating to Mongolia can be an exciting adventure, and understanding the customs and import regulations is key to a smooth transition. This guide will help you navigate the process for bringing your personal belongings into the country.

Importing Your Personal Belongings

When bringing your household goods and personal effects into Mongolia, there are standard procedures and documents required to ensure a smooth customs clearance process.

What you'll need

• Waybill
• Packing list
• Passport copy
• Power of attorney
• Employment confirmation (for new residents)
• Diplomatic card copy (for diplomatic shipments)
• Valid national ID card (for returning citizens)

Good to know

• The owner of the goods must be physically present in Mongolia during the customs clearance. Customs officers may request to meet the owner and verify the original passport.

Bringing special items

Motor vehicles

If you plan to bring your vehicle to Mongolia, be aware that it will be subject to duties and taxes. The exact amount will depend on several factors.

What you'll need

• Waybill
• Owner’s passport copy
• Certificate of title
• Origin purchase invoice
• Power of attorney

Good to know

• Duties and taxes are calculated based on the car's year of manufacture, make, model, engine volumetric capacity, and other specifications.

Pets

Bringing your furry friend to Mongolia is possible, but requires specific documentation and may involve quarantine.

What you'll need

• Owner’s passport copy
• Stamped health certificate issued by a government veterinarian from the country of origin, detailing the pet's name, sex, breed, and all vaccination records.

Good to know

• Quarantine may be required depending on the type of pet and its country of origin.

Alcohol & tobacco

There are specific allowances for importing alcoholic beverages for personal consumption duty-free.

Good to know

• Wine: 2 liters
• Beer: 2 liters
• Vodka: 1 liter

Restricted & prohibited items

Mongolia has strict regulations regarding certain imports. It is crucial to be aware of items that are either restricted or completely prohibited.

Prohibited items include:

• Weapons of all kinds
• Animal products
• Drugs
• Alcohols and spirits with more than 75% content
• Pornography
• Medicines
• Food
• Plants
• Collectible coins and stamps
• Credit cards, money
• Precious metal
• Religious items
• Toxic and radioactive material

Frequently asked questions

Do I need to be in Mongolia for customs clearance?
Yes, the owner of the goods should be in Mongolia during the customs clearance process, as customs officers may demand to meet with the owner and verify the original passport copy.

What documents are generally required for personal belongings?
You will typically need a waybill, packing list, passport copy, and power of attorney. Additional documents like employment confirmation or a diplomatic card may be required depending on your status.

Are there any duty-free allowances for alcohol?
Yes, for personal consumption, you can import up to 2 liters of wine, 2 liters of beer, and 1 liter of vodka duty-free.

What happens if I bring a prohibited item?
Prohibited items like weapons, drugs, and high-proof alcohol will be confiscated and may lead to further legal consequences.

Are there taxes on imported vehicles?
Yes, duties and taxes are payable on imported vehicles. The amount varies based on the vehicle's age, make, model, and engine size.

What do I need to bring a pet to Mongolia?
You'll need your passport copy and a stamped health certificate from a government veterinarian in your origin country, detailing your pet's information and vaccination records. Quarantine may also be required.

For personalized assistance with your move to Mongolia, please contact relocation123.com.

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