Mongolia Travel Status

WATCH

Travel to Mongolia is operating, but the country is currently experiencing nationwide fuel shortages. Limited and unpredictable fuel supplies could affect road transport, travel to remote areas and potentially domestic or international flights.

Nationwide fuel shortages

Mongolia is currently experiencing nationwide fuel shortages. Fuel availability is limited and unpredictable, making this the main current issue for travellers.

Fuel rationing

Local authorities have introduced rationing measures. These can include limits on how much fuel can be purchased and rules determining which days vehicles can refuel.

Flights could be affected

The fuel shortage also includes aviation fuel. Commercial flights continue, but travellers should check directly with their airline because domestic and international services could be affected.

Remote travel

Fuel shortages are particularly important for travellers planning long road journeys through Mongolia’s remote regions. Distances between towns and fuel stations can be very large.

Chinggis Khaan International Airport

Mongolia’s main international airport serves Ulaanbaatar and continues to handle international passenger flights.

China and Russia borders

Mongolia shares land borders only with China and Russia. Foreign visitors must use designated international border crossings.

Restricted border areas

Mongolia treats border security seriously. Areas extending as far as 100 kilometres from an international frontier can be designated border zones, and travellers may require permission to enter some of these areas.

China land crossings

Designated crossings available to foreign travellers include Zamyn-Uud and other specified checkpoints. Travellers should confirm that their intended crossing accepts their nationality before travelling.

Russia land crossings

Designated crossings with Russia include Altanbulag, Sukhbaatar and Tsagaannuur. Travellers must also satisfy Russian immigration requirements if entering Russia.

Foot-and-mouth disease outbreak

There is currently a foot-and-mouth disease outbreak affecting several western Mongolian provinces. Authorities are taking measures to prevent its spread, and additional areas could be affected at short notice.

Visa requirements

Visa requirements depend on nationality. Mongolia currently allows nationals of a number of countries to enter visa-free for short tourist stays under temporary arrangements running through 2026.

Nationwide fuel shortage

Current Canadian and UK government travel guidance warns of fuel shortages across Mongolia. Supplies are limited and unpredictable.

Aviation fuel affected

The UK specifically reports shortages of aviation fuel and warns that disruption could affect domestic and international flights.

Fuel rationing introduced

Current Canadian guidance reports that authorities have introduced measures including purchase limits and licence-plate-based refuelling schedules.

U.S. advisory remains Level 1

The current U.S. State Department advisory rates Mongolia Level 1: Exercise Normal Precautions and describes the country as generally safe for travellers.

Foot-and-mouth disease outbreak

Authorities are responding to a current foot-and-mouth disease outbreak affecting several provinces, including Khovd, Bayan-Ulgii, Govi-Altai and Selenge.

Check your airline shortly before departure because the current fuel shortage includes aviation fuel.

If travelling by road, check fuel availability along your route and avoid assuming that fuel will be available at every planned stop.

Carry additional emergency supplies when travelling through remote areas and allow extra time for journeys.

Check the visa requirements that apply to your nationality before departure.

If entering or leaving Mongolia overland, confirm that your intended border crossing is open to foreign travellers.

Obtain the required permission before entering restricted border areas.

Monitor local information if travelling through areas affected by the current foot-and-mouth disease outbreak.

Travel Status is designed to highlight significant changes that could affect a trip. It is not a replacement for official immigration, airline or government advice.