Mongolia: Authorities implementing eased domestic COVID-19-related controls nationwide Feb. 16 /update 35

Event

Officials in Mongolia are implementing eased domestic COVID-19-related curbs as of Feb. 16.

Domestic Measures
As of Feb. 16, the government has downgraded the alert level of restrictions from orange to yellow, the second-lowest level on a four-tier scale. Under the measures, all business restrictions are lifted. Long-distance transport services and most nonessential establishments may continue to require quick response (QR) code health certificates certifying vaccination status or negative results of a COVID-19 test for entry. Facemasks remain mandatory in public areas. Fully vaccinated travelers may travel between Ulaanbaatar and other provinces; however, those traveling from a province with COVID-19 cases, as well as unvaccinated individuals on interprovincial trips must present negative results of a COVID-19 test taken within 72 hours before departure. Checkpoints are in place to ensure compliance with the transport controls.

International Travel Restrictions
Authorities permit entry for citizens, permanent residents, and foreign nationals with valid visas or visa-free status. A list of visa-free countries can be found here. All international entrants must arrive at Chinggis Khaan International Airport (UBN); all other border crossings are closed to passengers until March 31. All arrivals must present a negative result from a COVID-19 test taken within 72 hours before entry and undergo on-arrival COVID-19 testing.

Fully vaccinated travelers and people who recovered from COVID-19 in the previous three months do not have to quarantine. People that test positive at the border may still bypass quarantine with proof of COVID-19 infection in the previous four months. Unvaccinated arrivals must self-quarantine 14 days. The government has reopened most border checkpoints for international cargo transport.

Advice

Follow all official instructions. Abide by local health and safety measures. Reconfirm all travel arrangements. Consider delaying traveling if experiencing symptoms associated with COVID-19, as they may prompt increased scrutiny and delays. Liaise with trusted contacts for further updates and guidance. Maintain contact with your diplomatic representation. Ensure contingency plans account for further disruptive measures or extensions of current restrictions. Reconsider and reconfirm nonemergency health appointments.