Verified Facts
To move to Mongolia, you will need to research and understand the country's visa requirements, cost of living, and cultural nuances, and then plan your relocation carefully, considering factors such as housing, employment, and healthcare.
Why People Move to Mongolia
Mongolia has become an attractive destination for expats and adventure-seekers alike, drawn by its vast, untouched landscapes, rich cultural heritage, and growing economy. The country offers a unique blend of traditional and modern lifestyles, with a mix of nomadic and urban experiences. Expats in Mongolia are a diverse group, including professionals, entrepreneurs, and retirees, with many drawn by the country's mining industry, as well as its growing tourism sector.
The quality of life in Mongolia is generally good, with a relatively low cost of living compared to other Asian countries. However, the country still faces challenges related to infrastructure and bureaucracy, which can make everyday life more difficult for expats. Despite these challenges, many expats find that the country's warm and welcoming people, stunning natural beauty, and sense of community make it a rewarding and enriching place to live.
Mongolia's expat demographics are diverse, with many coming from countries such as the United States, Canada, Australia, and Europe. The majority of expats live in the capital city, Ulaanbaatar, which offers a range of amenities and services, including international schools, hospitals, and shopping centers. However, some expats also choose to live in other parts of the country, such as the Gobi Desert or the Altai Mountains, which offer a more rural and peaceful way of life.
Visa & Residency Options
| Visa Type | Duration | Requirements | Cost (USD) | Path to PR? |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Tourist | 30 days | Valid passport, completed application form, fee | 50 | No |
| Work Visa | 1 year | Job offer, valid passport, completed application form, fee | 100 | Yes |
| Business/Investor | 1 year | Business plan, valid passport, completed application form, fee | 200 | Yes |
| Retirement | 1 year | Proof of pension, valid passport, completed application form, fee | 50 | No |
| Student | 1 year | Admission letter, valid passport, completed application form, fee | 20 | No |
| Digital Nomad | Not available | Not available | Not available | Not available |
Relocation Checklist
- Research Mongolia's visa requirements and application process
- Gather required documents, including a valid passport and completed application form
- Apply for a visa at a Mongolian embassy or consulate
- Book a flight to Ulaanbaatar and arrange for accommodation
- Notify your bank and credit card company of your move
- Arrange for health insurance that covers you in Mongolia
- Research and choose a neighborhood to live in
- Find a place to live, either by renting an apartment or buying a house
- Set up utilities, such as electricity and water
- Register with the local authorities and obtain a residence permit
- Open a Mongolian bank account and transfer funds
- Learn some basic Mongolian phrases and customs to help you settle in
Expat Communities
- Ulaanbaatar has a growing expat community, with many foreigners living and working in the city
- The Ulaanbaatar Expats Facebook group is a good place to connect with other expats and get advice on living in Mongolia
- The Mongolia Expats online forum is another useful resource for expats, with discussions on topics such as housing, jobs, and travel
- The International School of Ulaanbaatar is a popular choice for expat families, offering an international curriculum and a diverse student body
- The Ulaanbaatar Hash House Harriers is a social club that organizes regular events and activities for expats and locals alike
Banking & Finances
- Opening a bank account in Mongolia can be a straightforward process, with many banks offering services in English
- The Mongolian Tugrik is the local currency, although US dollars and euros are also widely accepted
- Credit cards, such as Visa and Mastercard, are becoming more widely accepted in Ulaanbaatar, but cash is still the preferred method of payment
- Money transfers can be made through services such as Western Union and MoneyGram
- It is a good idea to have a local bank account to receive and send money, as well as to pay bills and utilities
Challenges & Honest Advice
- Culture shock can be a significant challenge for expats in Mongolia, particularly in rural areas where traditional customs and ways of life prevail
- Bureaucracy can be frustrating, with slow and sometimes confusing administrative processes
- Language barriers can be a problem, particularly outside of Ulaanbaatar where English is not widely spoken
- Harsh climate can be a challenge, with very cold winters and hot summers
- Infrastructure can be limited, particularly in rural areas where roads and amenities may be poor
- Healthcare can be a concern, with limited medical facilities and services available outside of Ulaanbaatar, and it is essential to have good health insurance that covers you in Mongolia.
Quick Facts
Be prepared for a challenging but rewarding experience in Mongolia, and do your research carefully before making the move. With the right mindset and preparation, you can thrive in this unique and fascinating country.
Overall, moving to Mongolia can be a complex and challenging process, but with the right preparation and mindset, it can also be a highly rewarding experience. By doing your research, understanding the local culture and customs, and being prepared for the challenges that you may face, you can make a successful transition to life in Mongolia.