23 May 2021 | 08:24 PM UTC
Mongolia: Officials ease domestic COVID-19 restrictions; international movement curbs to continue until at least May 31 /update 24
Mongolia eases domestic COVID-19 restrictions. International movement curbs to continue until at least May 31.
Event
Authorities have further eased domestic COVID-19-related business and movement controls, while international travel restrictions are set to continue until at least May 31. As of May 24, authorities have allowed most classes of nonessential businesses to reopen, though capacity limits are in place at restaurants. Patrons of some establishments need to use quick response (QR) code health certificates certifying vaccination status.
Long-distance ground transportation services have resumed in most locations, although passengers are required to provide evidence of vaccination, COVID-19 antibodies, or COVID-19 tests taken with the previous 72 hours. Officials will maintain checkpoints to ensure compliance with the transport controls. Ground transport controls are set to continue in the aimags of Omnogovi and Dornogovi through at least June 15. Individuals within to travel to, from, or within Umnugovi and Dornogov must first apply for official permission.
Authorities will likely continue highly localized lockdowns in residential buildings and businesses that have reported COVID-19 exposure in the capital. Residents, employees, and patrons of these locations must undergo COVID-19 testing and quarantine until receiving negative test results. Authorities will require close contacts of COVID-19 cases and their household members to quarantine for seven days, followed by a seven-day self-quarantine. Officials will require suspected cases stemming from an outbreak site to quarantine for seven days.
Travel Restrictions
International travel restrictions will remain in effect until at least May 31. International commercial flights and passenger rail transport remain banned; only repatriation flights are operational for Mongolian nationals, permanent residents, and some visa holders. Some charter flights for foreign nationals seeking to leave Mongolia are also authorized. Passengers arriving from abroad must present negative COVID-19 tests taken no more than 72 hours prior to the beginning of their travel. International arrivals are required to quarantine in government-run facilities at their own expense for at least seven days. Arrivals who are evidence of being fully vaccinated against COVID-19 may be allowed to self-isolate for seven days in their residences.
The government continues to permit international cargo transport via the Ereentsav, Tsagaannuur and Borshoo border checkpoints.
Advice
Consider postponing travel to Mongolia if affected by travel restrictions. Register with your diplomatic mission if attempting to depart Mongolia. Follow all official instructions. Abide by national health and safety measures. Liaise with trusted contacts for further updates and guidance. Maintain contact with your diplomatic representation. Confirm all domestic transport arrangements. Ensure contingency plans account for further disruptive measures or extensions of current restrictions. Plan for potential shipping disruptions. Reconsider and reconfirm nonemergency health appointments.
