Mongolia Extends Visa-Free Access to Boost Year-Round Tourism in 2026

ULAANBAATAR (TRI) — As 2026 begins, Mongolia has solidified its commitment to becoming a premier year-round destination by extending its visa-free entry policy for citizens of 34 countries through December 31, 2026, with announcements confirming coverage into early 2027 in some reports.

The decision, announced in late December 2025 and effective immediately, prolongs a temporary exemption originally set to expire at the end of 2025. Travelers holding ordinary passports from these nations can now visit for tourism purposes for up to 30 days without a visa, removing barriers and encouraging visits beyond the traditional summer peak.

“This extension is a clear signal that Mongolia is open for business year-round,” said a spokesperson from the Mongolian Immigration Agency. “We want visitors to experience not just the Naadam Festival and green steppes, but also our stunning winter landscapes, eagle hunters, and ice festivals.”

The Policy Details: Who Benefits and How

The visa-free regime applies to citizens of 34 countries, primarily from Europe, plus Australia and New Zealand. Eligible nationals include those from Austria, Belgium, Denmark, France, Germany, Hungary, Italy, Spain, the UK, and others—full lists are available on official Mongolian immigration sites.

Key rules:

• Stay Limit: Up to 30 days per visit for tourism.
• Extension Possible: One-time 30-day extension available upon application.
• Separate for South Korea: An enhanced 90-day visa-free stay extended separately until December 31, 2026.

This builds on the “Years to Visit Mongolia” campaign, now prolonged through 2028, aimed at diversifying tourism seasons and hitting ambitious targets like two million annual visitors.

Driving Year-Round Appeal: Beyond Summer Steppes

Traditionally, Mongolia’s tourism peaks in summer with horse trekking, nomadic homestays, and the vibrant Naadam games. But the government is aggressively promoting four-season experiences to spread visitor flow and boost off-season revenue.

Highlights include:

• Winter Wonders — Eagle festivals in the Altai Mountains, where Kazakh hunters showcase golden eagles against snowy backdrops; ice fishing on frozen lakes; dog sledding; and reindeer herding with the Tsaatan people.
• Shoulder Seasons — Autumn colors in the taiga forests or spring wildflower blooms in the Gobi.
• Urban and Cultural Draws — Ulaanbaatar’s modern vibe mixed with Buddhist monasteries, dinosaur fossils in the Gobi, and ancient sites like Kharkhorin.

The extension comes after a strong 2025, with over 846,000 international arrivals—a 5% increase from 2024 and 44% above pre-pandemic levels—ranking Mongolia among the top 20 global recovery destinations.

Economic Impact and Infrastructure Push

Tourism contributes significantly to Mongolia’s diversification from mining, supporting jobs in rural areas and preserving nomadic traditions. The visa waiver has already driven growth from key markets like Europe and Australia.

Airlines are responding with more routes to Chinggis Khaan International Airport, while eco-lodges, ger camps, and sustainable tours expand offerings.

Traveler Tips for 2026

• Check Eligibility → Confirm your nationality on immigration.gov.mn or embassy sites.
• Prepare for Extremes → Pack layers; winters drop below -30°C (-22°F).
• Book Ahead → Popular festivals and remote areas fill quickly.
• Sustainable Travel → Respect nomadic communities and fragile ecosystems.

With easier access and diverse seasons on showcase, 2026 promises to be a breakout year for Mongolia as an all-year adventure haven.

Dreaming of eagle hunters or endless horizons? Mongolia’s calling. Share your plans below. Safe travels! 🏞️🇲🇳