Safety and security

Crime

Violent crime can take place in Mongolia even in daylight and on busy streets. Foreigners are the target of theft and assaults, especially in crowded areas such as markets and places popular with tourists. The threat is also elevated during festive periods. Always take sensible precautions:

• Carry valuables discreetly. Keep a close eye on your personal belongings and hold on to them in public places such as internet cafes and on public transport.
• Avoid showing large sums of money in public and don't use ATMs after dark, especially if you’re alone. Check no one has followed you after using an ATM.
• Don't carry your credit card and money together. Leave spare cash and valuables in a safe place.
• Avoid dark and unlit streets and stairways, and avoid remote or outlying areas after dark. Arrange to be picked up or dropped off as close to your hotel or apartment entrance as possible.
• Ensure that you use licensed taxis at all times.

Local travel

Mongolia is a vast, sparsely populated country – 22 times the size of Ireland with a population less than 4 million. Trips outside of the capital should be carefully planned and preferably undertaken with a reputable local guide or travel agency.

When visiting remote areas, bring supplies, clothing appropriate for the climate, and make contingency plans. Consider bringing a satellite phone, as mobile networks and GPS do not always function adequately in remote areas.

The road infrastructure in Mongolia is underdeveloped, with only about 10% of the road network paved. Even in the capital city, Ulaanbaatar, the extent of paved streets is limited. Street lighting and signage are also limited. Roads in remote areas may not be easily discernible, sometimes being only tracks left by other vehicles. The standard of driving is poor.

Driving

Road conditions, the standard of driving and frequency of accidents mean driving in Mongolia is not advised.

If you plan to drive to Mongolia, an international driving permit is required. You should also bring both your full driver's licence and make sure you have adequate and appropriate insurance. Due to the long distances between service and filling stations, and the harsh climate, trips to rural areas should be undertaken with at least two vehicles in case of breakdown.

Hiring a vehicle

Self-drive rental cars are not routinely available. If you're hiring a vehicle, we advise against handing over your passport as a form of security: you’re legally required to carry your passport with you at all times. If you're allowing your passport to be photocopied, keep it in your sight at all times.

Check that you have adequate insurance and read the small print of the vehicle hire contract (particularly any waiver that will come into effect if the vehicle is damaged).

Local laws and customs

Remember, the local laws apply to you as a visitor and it is your responsibility to follow them. Be sensitive to local customs, traditions and practices as your behaviour may be seen as improper, hostile or may even be illegal. Taking photos of the police, the army or soldiers or related infrastructure is prohibited and is considered a criminal offence.

Dual nationality

Mongolia doesn't recognise dual nationality and this may limit our ability to provide consular assistance to Irish/Mongolian dual nationals who are arrested or detained.

Illegal drugs

Illegal drug use (no matter what type or quantity of the drug) carries stiff penalties, including fines and long prison terms.

Natural disasters and climate

In the event of a natural disaster or extreme weather, we recommend that you follow the advice of local authorities. Monitor media reports for the latest information.

Climate

Mongolia is subject to extreme temperatures from -35°C in the winter to +35°C in the summer. The climate varies considerably, including mountain, steppe, and desert climates. The Mongolian winter extends up to eight months between October and May.

The variation in climate and weather should be kept in mind when planning trips outside the capital, given the long distances between settlements.

Earthquake

Mongolia is located in an active seismic zone. Most earthquakes are centred in the mountainous west of the country and there is a high risk in the capital Ulaanbaatar. If you're travelling to or living in Mongolia, make sure you note the contact details of the Irish Embassy in Beijing, China, for use in the event of an emergency. Follow the Embassy in Beijing on Twitter@IrlEmbChina to ensure access to relevant updates and alerts.

Flooding

There is a short rainy season from mid-July to mid-September.

Dust storms

Dust storms occur between May and June.

Additional information

Entry requirements (visa/passport)

Irish citizens can travel to Mongolia for tourism for stays of up to 30 days without obtaining a visa. This visa-free arrangement, for tourism, will be effective until 31 December 2025.

Irish citizens travelling to Mongolia for purposes other than tourism (such as work, study, long-term stay, or other personal purposes) should obtain the appropriate visa to enter Mongolia. You should take steps to apply for a visa well in advance of your planned visit. Information on how to apply for a visa can be obtained from the Embassy of Mongolia in London.

Further information on visa requirements is available on the website of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Mongolia  and on the website of the Immigration Agency of Mongolia.

Irish citizens must have a valid passports to enter Mongolia, with a validity date at least six months beyond the end of their intended period of stay. It's also advisable to take a number of photocopies of your passport with you, and to store a photo of the personal identification and Mongolian visa pages of your passport on your phone.

You are legally required to carry your passport at all times when travelling in Mongolia and, if living in Mongolia, your residency card. We also recommend that you leave a copy of your passport (and travel and insurance documents) with family or friends at home.

Registration

Accommodation providers such as hotels are required to register foreign nationals staying at their property. This is usually done online by the hotel or other accommodation provider through the Immigration Agency of Mongolia’s website.

Health

Check with your doctor well in advance of travelling to see if they recommend any vaccinations or precautions for travel to Mongolia.

Medical facilities

Medical facilities in Mongolia don't meet most Western standards. Medical services are limited, especially for emergency healthcare. Serious injury or illness typically requires medical evacuation.

If you’re travelling to remote areas, keep in mind that there is no helicopter evacuation service in Mongolia. Access to emergency medical care involves long road journeys to the nearest large town for transfer to the capital.

Given the lack of quality medical care and emergency response in Mongolia, particular caution is advised when undertaking sporting activities.

Medical facilities in Mongolia typically require payment up front. Make sure that you have comprehensive medical insurance which covers private healthcare, medical evacuation and repatriation. Bring basic medical supplies with you, including any regular prescription drugs you may need.

Water

Use only bottled water for drinking. Be aware that food safety standards in restaurants may not be adequate.

Air pollution

Air quality in Mongolia is frequently hazardous during the winter months. If you are sensitive to or at risk of health impacts from air pollution, you should plan accordingly.