Mongolia E-Visa: How to Apply, Eligibility, Fees, and Key Travel Tips

Key Takeaways

Mongolia E-Visa is available to citizens of 180 countries for tourism or business, valid for 30-90 days, depending on nationality.
The application process is online, requiring a passport, photo, travel proof, email, and a payment of $50-$70, completed in 3-5 days.
Travelers must register with the Mongolian Immigration Agency within 48 hours of arrival; non-compliance may result in fines or issues.

The Mongolia E-Visa system, introduced in 2017, is a convenient option for eligible travelers seeking to visit Mongolia 🇲🇳. This guide explains the eligibility criteria, application process, fees, and important details to help you navigate the system effectively. By simplifying the visa procedure, Mongolia aims to enhance tourism and make it easier for travelers to obtain a visa online.

Eligibility for Mongolia E-Visa

Mongolia E-Visa: How to Apply, Eligibility, Fees, and Key Travel Tips

The Mongolia E-Visa is available to citizens of approximately 180 countries as of March 2024. It is valid for specific purposes such as tourism and business, with no options to use it for employment or non-governmental organization (NGO) activities. Travelers with this visa can stay in Mongolia for 30 to 90 days, depending on their nationality. Anyone needing a longer consecutive stay, a work visa, or a student visa must submit an application at a Mongolian diplomatic government office.

Having dual nationality does not disqualify an applicant; however, they must choose the nationality and passport that will be used for travel. This ensures that all visa-related records align with one specific passport. Travelers should confirm their eligibility and intended use of the visa before applying to avoid complications.

Application Process for Mongolia E-Visa

Applying for the Mongolia E-Visa is straightforward and can be completed entirely online. Follow these six steps to secure your visa:

Access the Official Website
Visit the Mongolian Immigration Agency website.
Start Your Application
Click on the “Apply for e-visa” button to begin the application.
Complete the Form
Enter personal details, such as your full name, date of birth, and passport information. Add your travel details, including your intended arrival and departure dates.
Upload Your Documents
Prepare and upload all required documents. You will need scanned copies of your passport, a recent photo that meets visa photo requirements, and proof of travel arrangements like a flight reservation.
Pay the Fee
Use a valid credit or debit card to pay the visa fee. Ensure your payment method supports international transactions.
Receive and Print Your Visa
Once the application is processed and approved, you will receive your visa via email. Download it and print a copy to carry with you when traveling to Mongolia.

Required Documents for the Application

To successfully apply for a Mongolia E-Visa, you need the following documents in digital formats:

A valid passport with at least six months of validity remaining from your intended arrival date.
A recent photo that meets specified visa photo requirements.
A valid email address to receive all correspondence and the approved visa.
A credit or debit card for payment.

Ensure all documents meet the outlined specifications, particularly the photo, which must meet strict criteria to be accepted.

Visa Photo Requirements

The photo is a critical part of the application. The Mongolian Immigration Agency requires photos to meet these standards:

Size: 3.5 x 4.5 cm
Timeframe: Taken within the past six months
Background: Plain white with no patterns or shadows
Pose: Full face looking straight at the camera, with a neutral facial expression
Accessories: No headwear unless worn for religious purposes
Quality: Clear, sharp image in focus

Ensuring your photo adheres to these guidelines reduces the risk of application delays.

Costs and Processing Time

Fees for the Mongolia E-Visa depend on the type of visa and the applicant’s nationality. Typically, the cost of a single-entry, 30-day visa falls between USD 50 and USD 70. This fee must be paid during the application process.

Processing times are typically 3-5 working days, making the online system a fast method to secure a visa. However, it is advised to apply at least 14 days before your planned travel date to account for unforeseen delays.

Validity and Duration of Stay

The Mongolia E-Visa allows for either 30 or 90 days of stay, depending on the traveler’s eligibility. Once approved, the visa must be used within 90 days, after which it expires if unused.

Upon arrival, all foreign visitors, regardless of their visa type, are required to register with the Mongolian Immigration Agency within 48 hours. This rule enables officials to keep updated records of foreign nationals entering the country. Failure to comply with this requirement could lead to fines or complications with future travel.

Extending the E-Visa

For travelers wishing to stay beyond their initial period, visa extensions are possible. Applications for an extension must be filed at the Mongolian Immigration Agency office in Ulaanbaatar. It is important to submit the extension request at least four days before your visa expires. Extensions are granted for up to an additional 30 days.

Recent Developments in Visa Policies

Mongolia has made strides in enhancing its visa services. In October 2022, the E-visa program expanded its scope by adding more eligible nationalities. Additionally, simplified procedures were introduced to make the process easy for applicants.

Furthermore, temporary visa-exemptions for short stays were introduced starting January 2025 for citizens of some countries. This exemption allows visitors from these nations to stay for up to 30 days without applying for a visa, promoting tourism as part of a strategy set to last through 2025. However, travelers should still check the latest updates on these exemptions before making plans.

Helpful Tips for Applicants

Check All Details Carefully: Before submitting, ensure every field of your application is accurate and matches the information in your passport.
Digital and Paper Copies: Save an electronic version of your approved visa on your phone or another device, but also carry a printed copy for entry.
Valid Passport: Confirm that your passport is valid for at least six months beyond your intended arrival date.
Prepare for Border Checks: Be ready to provide additional details or biometric information to Mongolian authorities upon arrival.
Stay Informed: Monitor updates from official sources like the Mongolian Immigration Agency as rules may change.

Common FAQs

Q: Can the E-Visa be used for work or study?
A: No, the E-Visa is strictly for tourism or business purposes.

Q: How soon should I apply before traveling?
A: Submit applications at least 14 days before your planned travel date.

Q: Is registration with local authorities required?
A: Yes, all foreign visitors must register with Mongolian Immigration within 48 hours of arrival.

Q: Can an E-Visa be extended?
A: Yes, extensions of up to 30 days are possible but must be requested before the visa’s expiry.

Q: Are any nationalities visa-exempt?
A: Certain nationalities have been granted temporary visa exemptions for tourism stays up to 30 days as of January 2025.

Final Thoughts

The Mongolia E-Visa simplifies the process of visiting this culturally rich and visually stunning country. Whether traveling for tourism or business, the online system offers a fast and efficient option to obtain your visa. Following the required steps, complying with registration rules, and staying informed about updates can help ensure a smooth entry and enjoyable stay. For official details, visit the Mongolian Immigration Agency website. As highlighted by VisaVerge.com, Mongolia’s efforts to boost tourism with such policies reflect its commitment to welcoming travelers from all over the globe.

Learn Today

E-Visa → An electronic visa obtained online allowing eligible travelers to enter a country without visiting a diplomatic office.
Dual Nationality → The legal status of being a citizen of two countries, requiring selection of one passport for visa purposes.
Visa Exemption → Permission allowing travelers from certain countries to enter without a visa for a specified period.
Biometric Information → Personal data such as fingerprints or facial scans, often required for identification during immigration processes.
Processing Time → The duration it takes for authorities to review and approve a visa application after submission.

This Article in a Nutshell

Planning a trip to Mongolia? The Mongolia E-Visa, launched in 2017, offers a straightforward online solution for eligible travelers. With a 3-5 day processing time, applicants can secure visas for 30 to 90 days. Simplifying travel while boosting tourism, this system ensures hassle-free entry to Mongolia’s stunning landscapes and vibrant culture.
— By VisaVerge.com