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Mongolia Work Permits & Visas: Processes for Employers

Looking to sponsor an international hire in Mongolia? This guide breaks down what employers need to know — from visa types to employer obligations and timelines. Whether you're hiring locally or relocating international talent, we've got you covered.

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Capital City

Ulaanbaatar

Currency

Mongolian tögrög

(

₮

)

Timezone

ULAT

(

GMT +8

)

Payroll

Monthly

Employment Cost

12.5%- 14.5%

Milani Notshe

Research Specialist

Last Updated

July 11, 2025

In This Guide

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Hiring Foreign Talent in Mongolia: What Employers Need to Know

Are you an employer looking to sponsor international talent in Mongolia? Navigating Mongolia’s visa and work permit process can be complex — especially without a local legal entity or dedicated HR team.

This guide breaks down everything you need to know about employer-sponsored work visas in Mongolia, including processing times, documentation, and local compliance rules. Whether relocating a team member or hiring locally, Playroll simplifies visa sponsorship through an end-to-end employer of record platform.

Key Takeaways

Employers or EOR providers must ensure they are registered with immigration authorities to sponsor foreign workers.

The process usually takes 30-45 days.

The most common work visas are the Work Visa (€100) and the Employment Visa (€50).

Independent contractors follow a separate process, typically requiring a business visa or self-employment authorization.

Work permits are location-specific, especially for mining or construction sectors, and may require reapproval for job changes.

Who Needs a Work Permit in Mongolia

In Mongolia, any foreign national intending to engage in employment activities requires a work permit. This mandate applies to all sectors and job roles, ensuring that foreign employees are legally authorized to work within the country. Employers must secure the appropriate work permits for their international hires to comply with Mongolian labor and immigration regulations.

Types of Work Visas in Mongolia

Mongolia offers several work visa categories tailored to different employment purposes. Selecting the appropriate visa type is essential to align with the specific nature of the employment and to ensure legal compliance.

Visa Type	Description
Single-Entry Business Visa (B Visa)	Issued to foreign nationals visiting Mongolia for business purposes, such as attending conferences or meetings. Valid for 30 days and sponsored by a native company.
Work Permit (HG Visa)	Granted to foreign nationals intending to work in Mongolia. Employers are responsible for applying on behalf of the employee. Initially valid for 30 days; must be extended to a one-year multiple-entry visa upon arrival.
Foreign Investor Visa (T Visa)	Designed for foreign nationals investing in a Mongolian company or holding executive positions. Valid for six months to one year, with the possibility of renewal.

Common Hiring Scenarios for Mongolia

When hiring talent in Mongolia, employers typically choose one of three pathways depending on the role, duration, & legal requirements. Below are the most common models.

Use Case 1: Sponsoring a Foreign Employee via Work Permit or Visa

This is the most common route for companies hiring full-time foreign talent in Mongolia. To sponsor this visa, an employer (or Playroll as the Employer of Record) must have a registered legal entity in-country and issue a compliant offer of employment.

Key Employer Considerations:

Sponsorship is required — contractors or freelancers cannot apply under this visa.
Employees must remain in the approved work location unless authorized to relocate or change employers.
Processing timelines vary (approximately 30 to 45 days), depending on the consulate or embassy.

This is best for: Long-term roles with in-office or hybrid presence in Mongolia.

Use Case 2: Hiring a Foreign Contractor in Mongolia

Independent professionals in Mongolia can legally work with international clients without employer sponsorship, but must comply with local tax registration and reporting laws.

With Playroll’s Contractor Management solution, you can:

Draft fully compliant local contractor agreements.
Automate contractor invoicing and cross-border payments, in Mozambican Metical (MZN) or USD.
Mitigate risk of permanent establishment and contractor misclassification.

This is best for: Freelancers, consultants or project-based roles, especially if the worker already lives in Mongolia.

Use Case 3: Relocating an Existing Employee to Mongolia

Transferring an existing team member to Mongolia? You’ll still need to navigate the same visa and payroll setup process. Even if the employee works for you elsewhere, a local employer of record is required to stay compliant.

EOR’s, like Playroll, handle all local steps, including:

Work permit sponsorship and immigration paperwork,
Registration with local authorities and payroll systems,
Enrollment in mandatory benefits and statutory schemes.

This is best for: Internal transfers or remote-first companies looking to expand into Africa, or talent retention offerings for global mobility programs.

Not Sure What to Pay in Mongolia? Compare fair, local salaries with our free benchmarking tool.

Requirements for a Work Permit in Mongolia

Obtaining a work permit in Mongolia necessitates meeting specific criteria to ensure both the employer and the foreign employee comply with national regulations.

Valid Passport: The employee's passport must be valid for at least one year to cover the duration of the intended employment.
Job Offer Letter: A formal offer from a Mongolian employer outlining the terms of employment is essential to initiate the work permit process.
Employment Authorization: Approval from the Ministry of Labor and Social Protection, confirming the eligibility of the foreign national for the specified role.
Completed Application Form: Accurate and complete submission of the official work permit application form is required.
Proof of Qualifications: Documentation such as diplomas, certificates, and resumes that verify the employee's qualifications and suitability for the position.
Medical Examination: A health check to ensure the employee meets the medical standards set by Mongolian authorities.

Mongolia Work Permit Application Process

Step 1: Secure a Job Offer: The foreign national must obtain a formal employment offer from a registered Mongolian company.
Step 2: Employer Applies for Pre-Work Permit: The employer submits an application to the Labor and Welfare Agency, providing necessary documents such as the employment contract and company registration certificates.
Step 3: Obtain HG Visa: Upon approval of the pre-work permit, the employee applies for an HG visa at a Mongolian embassy or consulate in their home country.
Step 4: Arrival in Mongolia and Visa Extension: Within 10 days of arrival, the employer must apply to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade to extend the HG visa from its initial 30-day validity to a one-year multiple-entry visa.
Step 5: Apply for Residence Permit: Concurrently, the employer assists the employee in obtaining a long-term residence permit, valid for one year and renewable annually.

Process for Visa Sponsorship in Mongolia

In Mongolia, employers act as sponsors for foreign employees, bearing the responsibility for obtaining necessary work permits and visas. This process includes securing pre-work permits, facilitating visa applications, and ensuring compliance with immigration laws. Employers must also adhere to quotas on foreign workers, which vary by industry and are set annually by the government.

What Are the Fees for a Work Permit or Visa in Mongolia

The costs associated with obtaining work permits and visas in Mongolia can vary based on the visa type and processing times.

Visa Type	Application Fee
Single-Entry Business Visa (B Visa)	$70 - $200
Work Permit (HG Visa)	$100 - $300
Foreign Investor Visa (T Visa)	Varies; consult relevant authorities

Processing Time for a Work Permit or Visa in Mongolia

The processing time for work permits and visas in Mongolia varies depending on the visa type and completeness of the application. Generally, it can take several weeks to a few months. Delays may occur due to incomplete documentation or high application volumes. Employers should plan accordingly to accommodate these timelines and ensure a smooth onboarding process for foreign employees.

Work Permit Renewal Periods in Mongolia

In Mongolia, work permits are typically issued for a duration of up to one year and can be renewed annually. Employers are responsible for initiating the renewal process before the current permit's expiration to ensure uninterrupted legal employment for their foreign staff. Timely renewal is crucial to maintain compliance with Mongolian labor and immigration laws.

Visa Requirements for Digital Nomads in Mongolia

As of now, Mongolia does not offer a specific visa category tailored for digital nomads. Individuals intending to work remotely from Mongolia must obtain an appropriate visa based on their purpose of stay. Engaging in employment without the correct visa classification may lead to legal complications.

Valid Passport: Digital nomads must have a valid passport for the duration of their stay in Mongolia.
Appropriate Visa: A business or tourist visa may be applicable for individuals working remotely, but employers and individuals must ensure compliance with local laws.
Proof of Employment: Documentation verifying remote work and the employer-employee relationship may be required.
Additional Approvals: Depending on the nature of remote work, additional permissions may be necessary.

Common Challenges and Tips for Employers Hiring in Mongolia

Employing foreign nationals in Mongolia presents several challenges:

Navigating Complex Regulations: Mongolia's immigration and labor laws can be intricate, requiring thorough understanding to ensure compliance.
Quota Limitations: The government imposes annual quotas on the number of foreign workers per company, varying by industry, which can affect hiring plans.
Administrative Procedures: The process of obtaining work permits and visas involves multiple steps and coordination with various government agencies, demanding meticulous attention to detail.

Tips for Employers:

Stay Informed: Regularly consult official Mongolian government sources or legal experts to keep abreast of current regulations and quotas.
Plan Ahead: Initiate the work permit and visa application processes well in advance to accommodate potential delays and ensure timely onboarding of foreign employees.
Seek Professional Assistance: Engage with immigration specialists or legal advisors experienced in Mongolian labor laws to navigate the complexities effectively.

Hire Global employees without hassle with an EOR solution

Expanding your workforce across international borders is an exciting step, but it can be a logistical nightmare to hire and pay employees in different countries. That’s the advantage of using a trusted Employer of Record like Playroll. They can:

Handle your international payroll: An EOR will act as your payroll provider, paying your employees on your behalf in the local currency. The company will also have in-depth knowledge of local tax codes, regulatory practices, and everything else that goes into managing global payroll.
Alleviate compliance concerns: Different countries each have their own federal and local laws governing employee payments. An EOR helps ensure that you are compliant with the unique set of laws for any country in which your company operates. This is extremely important since a compliance slip-up can result in heavy fines or even a lawsuit.
Hire and pay international contractors: Sometimes a particular project or role doesn’t require hiring a full-time employee. An EOR gives employers the flexibility to also hire contractors as needed, and avoid the potential for misclassification under local labor law.

Disclaimer

THIS CONTENT IS FOR INFORMATIONAL PURPOSES ONLY AND DOES NOT CONSTITUTE LEGAL OR TAX ADVICE. You should always consult with and rely on your own legal and/or tax advisor(s). Playroll does not provide legal or tax advice. The information is general and not tailored to a specific company or workforce and does not reflect Playroll’s product delivery in any given jurisdiction. Playroll makes no representations or warranties concerning the accuracy, completeness, or timeliness of this information and shall have no liability arising out of or in connection with it, including any loss caused by use of, or reliance on, the information.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Milani Notshe

Milani is a seasoned research and content specialist at Playroll, a leading Employer Of Record (EOR) provider. Backed by a strong background in Politics, Philosophy and Economics, she specializes in identifying emerging compliance and global HR trends to keep employers up to date on the global employment landscape.

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FAQs about Work Permits & Visas in Mongolia

Can Playroll sponsor a visa in Mongolia?

We don’t currently sponsor visas in Mongolia — but we can still help. Our in-house compliance team supports employers through every stage of the visa process: helping you compile documentation, set timelines, and coordinate with our network of trusted local immigration advisors.

If you’re looking to hire in Mongolia, book a demo and we’ll help you prepare, flag potential issues, and streamline the path to compliant onboarding.

What is the difference between a work permit and a work visa in Mongolia?

In Mongolia, a work visa (HG visa) allows a foreign national to enter the country for employment purposes, while a work permit authorizes the individual to engage in employment activities within Mongolia. Both documents are essential for legal employment.

How long does it take to process a work permit or visa in Mongolia?

Processing times can vary, but obtaining a work permit and visa in Mongolia generally takes several weeks. Employers should plan accordingly to accommodate these timelines and ensure a smooth onboarding process for foreign employees.

What are the requirements for sponsoring a work permit or visa in Mongolia?<

Employers must provide a formal job offer, company registration documents, and evidence of efforts to hire local candidates. Additionally, they must comply with industry-specific quotas on foreign workers and ensure all application materials are accurately completed and submitted.

What types of work permits and visas are available in Mongolia?

Mongolia offers several work-related visas, including the Single-Entry Business Visa (B Visa), Work Permit (HG Visa), and Foreign Investor Visa (T Visa). Each visa type serves different purposes, such as business meetings, long-term employment, or investments in Mongolian companies.