For many in Germany, Mongolia has long symbolized the remoteness and mystery of a nomadic culture – a perception once shaped above all by the conquests of Genghis Khan or the award-winning film The Story of the Weeping Camel, which sparked fascination for the country and its myths. Older generations might still sway to the 1970s hit Dschinghis Khan – yet those days are firmly in the past.
Today, this vast country is striving for more and has embarked on a path of determined modernization. Unlike the authoritarian regimes of China and Russia, Mongolia has emerged since its 1989 transformation as a vibrant democracy – where genuine elections and active political discourse reflect the tension between nomadic tradition and a competitive, capitalist way of life.
As early as 1927, the first 35 Mongolians traveled to Leipzig and other German cities. Diplomatic relations began with the GDR in 1950 and with the Federal Republic in 1974. Since Mongolia’s democratic new beginning in 1990, a close strategic partnership has evolved – one sustained by decades of intensive intercultural exchange.
Let us explore new paths together and help shape the future of both our cultures.
I warmly invite you to engage in personal dialogue.
Yours,
Harald Felzen
Honorary Consul of Mongolia
My first encounters with Mongolian women and men began over six years ago – practically on the spot – during my time as a consultant and project manager for the German Sparkassenstiftung in Ulaanbaatar. The intense professional experience and personal interactions I had while supporting the development of Mongolia’s financial sector gave me clear and lasting insight into the country and its wonderful people – laying the foundation for the honorary role that now fills me with both pride and responsibility. As Honorary Consul, I serve as a point of contact for companies and individuals interested in economic, cultural, and social projects – while actively supporting the Mongolian community living in North Rhine-Westphalia.
Mongolia is located in Central Asia and is a highland region characterized by vast steppes and desert landscapes. 85% of the country’s territory lies above 1,000 meters in elevation – with an average altitude of 1,580 meters.
The west and north are dominated by mountain ranges such as the Altai and Khangai, while the south is shaped by the Gobi Desert.
Its continental climate brings extreme temperature fluctuations between summer and winter.
Mongolia has a population of around 3.3 million – one of the lowest population densities in the world, with just two people per square kilometer. More than half of the population lives in the capital city, Ulaanbaatar – which also serves as the country’s political, economic, and cultural center.
Mongolia’s economy is primarily based on two sectors: traditional nomadic livestock farming and its resource-rich mining industry.
The country ranks among the ten most resource-rich nations in the world – with significant deposits of copper, gold, coal, and rare earth elements
In the 13th century, Mongolia was at the heart of the largest contiguous empire in human history – the Mongol Empire founded by Genghis Khan in 1206. Later, under his grandson Kublai Khan, the Chinese Yuan Dynasty emerged. Following alternating influences from China and the Soviet Union, a democratic constitution was adopted in 1992 – marking the end of the communist system.
Mongolia is a parliamentary republic with a democratically elected government. The official language is Mongolian. The country is currently led by President Ukhnaagiin Khürelsükh (head of state) and Prime Minister Gombojavyn Zandanshatar (head of government). The term “Outer Mongolia” refers to the present-day sovereign state, while “Inner Mongolia” denotes an autonomous region within China.
Mongolia is an increasingly popular destination for culture enthusiasts, adventure seekers, and travelers with a passion for nature.
Visitors especially appreciate the country’s vast, untouched landscapes, the traditional nomadic way of life, and its rich cultural diversity. Popular travel destinations include the Gobi Desert, Lake Khövsgöl, the Altai Mountains – as well as historic sites such as Karakorum, the former capital of the Mongol Empire. The travel season is primarily concentrated in the summer months from June to September – when the climate is mild and the infrastructure more accessible.
Since 1 January 2023, individuals holding German citizenship may enter Mongolia without a visa for up to 30 days – for tourism or short-term stays. A passport valid for at least 6 months beyond the intended period of stay is required.
A visa-free stay is permitted for a maximum of 30 days for German citizens. An extension is only possible in exceptional cases and must be requested from the Immigration Agency.
For longer stays (e.g. for studies, employment, etc.), a visa is required prior to entry.
Applications must be submitted through the Embassy of Mongolia, e.g. in Berlin.
Your passport must be valid for at least 6 months upon entry. At least two blank pages are required for entry and exit stamps.
Yes, for stays longer than 30 days, you must register with the Immigration Agency within 7 days of arrival.
Overstaying may result in fines, possible expulsion, or a re-entry ban.
It is strongly recommended to contact the authorities in advance.
No. A valid passport is strictly required.
Children require their own travel document. A written consent form from the other parent is recommended when a child is travelling alone or with only one parent.
Yes, with a valid health certificate and proof of rabies vaccination. An import permit may also be required, depending on the circumstances.
There is currently no specific visa for digital nomads. Remote work is generally permitted under a tourist visa – provided that no local employment relationship exists.
No. As Honorary Consul, I provide advisory and representative support exclusively on economic, cultural, or social matters related to Mongolia, and can assist in connecting you with relevant contacts if needed. For official documents, applications, and other consular services, please contact the Embassy of Mongolia – for example, in Berlin.
Cash exceeding USD 10,000 (or the equivalent in other currencies) must be declared upon entry. The import of weapons, drugs, drones, and pornography is prohibited or subject to strict restrictions.
There are no mandatory vaccinations. Recommended: Hepatitis A/B, rabies, typhoid for long-term stays or rural travel – as well as international health insurance.
Medical facilities meeting international standards are available in Ulaanbaatar.
Advance payment by credit card is common; in rural areas, medical care is often inadequate or difficult to access. Bringing your own medication is recommended, if applicable.
Yes – but only in combination with an International Driving Permit (IDP). The German license alone is not officially recognized; the IDP must be carried alongside it. Prolonged stays may require a mongolian driver’s license.
Network coverage is good in urban areas. SIM cards are available from providers such as Unitel or Mobicom. Data packages are affordable, and Wi-Fi is usually available in hotels
Respect for hosts, elders, and religious sites is essential. Shoes must be removed when entering a ger (yurt), and polite behavior is highly valued. Avoid stepping on the threshold — from a Mongolian perspective, this is considered bad luck.
Discrimination against LGBTIQ individuals is prohibited in Mongolia. However, traditional gender roles remain deeply rooted in the culture.
In emergencies such as illness, accident, loss of documents, or arrest, contact the relevant embassy in Ulaanbaatar or the local authorities.
The embassy can provide advice, assist with obtaining replacement documents, or offer support in medical emergencies.
Type of Emergency | Phone Number | Note |
Police | 102 | For theft, assaults, or other criminal incidents |
Fire Department | 101 | For fires or technical assistance |
Ambulance / Emergency Medical Services | 103 | For medical emergencies |
General Emergency Center | 105 | Central crisis service for all types of emergencies |
German Embassy Ulaanbaatar | (+976) 11 32 42 71 | Reachable Mon–Fri during office hours |
Embassy Emergency Hotline (outside office hours) | Wird auf der Mailbox angesagt | For urgent consular emergencies only |
Please note: Outside of Ulaanbaatar, emergency calls may not function reliably.
Always carry contact information with you and inform your accommodation or local contacts about your travel plans.
It is recommended to register with the ELEFAND list of the German Federal Foreign Office – or the equivalent in your home country.
» ELEFAND Registration– Federal Foreign Office
NRW Global Business supports investment projects in North Rhine–Westphalia with tailored services for international business development.
The German-Mongolian Business Association connects companies from both countries and promotes sustainable business relations.
» Deutsch-Mongolischer Unternehmensverband
Deutsch-Mongolisches Tor in NRW e.V. strengthens cultural exchange and actively supports improved integration projects in Germany.
» Deutsch-Mongolisches Tor in NRW e.V.
The German Sparkassenstiftung for International Cooperation is committed to international partnerships and projects that promote sustainable development and financial inclusion.
My personal initiative “Warm Feet,” in cooperation with Good Neighbors Mongolia, aims to support children in ger districts by providing them with winter-proof shoes and socks — helping them walk to school safely and healthily, even in the coldest season.
Your donation helps make school attendance in winter easier for these children — your aids provides warmth and a perspective for the future.
Every euro donated goes directly toward purchasing socks and shoes — 100% for warm feet and brighter futures.
Harald Felzen
Payment Reference: Warm Feet
IBAN: DE81604500501000191585
Fields marked with an asterisk (*) are required.
Independent business consultant
and project manager
for international banking projects
Member of the Executive Board
Division for Retail Banking
Deutsche Apotheker- und Ärztebank eG
Member of the Executive Board
Kreissparkasse Ludwigsburg
Retail Banking Division
Branch Director and Head
SparkassenVermögensManagement South-West
Kreissparkasse Ludwigsburg
Assistant to the Chairman of the Board
Kreissparkasse Ludwigsburg
Advisor for Participations/Banks
and Service Companies
Department of Business Administration/Participations
DG Bank AG, Frankfurt
General Trainee Program
DG Bank AG, Frankfurt
Studies in Business Administration
Degree in Business Administration
(Diplom-Kaufmann)
University of Trier
Apprenticeship as a Bank Clerk
Kreissparkasse Bernkastel-Wittlich
Independent business consultant
and project manager
for international banking projects
Member of the Executive Board
Division for Retail Banking
Deutsche Apotheker- und Ärztebank eG
Member of the Executive Board
Kreissparkasse Ludwigsburg
Retail Banking Division
Branch Director and Head
SparkassenVermögensManagement South-West
Kreissparkasse Ludwigsburg
Assistant to the Chairman of the Board
Kreissparkasse Ludwigsburg
Advisor for Participations/Banks
and Service Companies
Department of Business Administration/Participations
DG Bank AG, Frankfurt
General Trainee Program
DG Bank AG, Frankfurt
Studies in Business Administration
Degree in Business Administration
(Diplom-Kaufmann)
University of Trier
Apprenticeship as a Bank Clerk
Kreissparkasse Bernkastel-Wittlich
Independent business consultant
and project manager
for international banking projects
Member of the Executive Board
Division for Retail Banking
Deutsche Apotheker- und Ärztebank eG
Member of the Executive Board
Kreissparkasse Ludwigsburg
Retail Banking Division
Branch Director and Head
SparkassenVermögensManagement South-West
Kreissparkasse Ludwigsburg
Assistant to the Chairman of the Board
Kreissparkasse Ludwigsburg
Advisor for Participations/Banks
and Service Companies
Department of Business Administration/Participations
DG Bank AG, Frankfurt
General Trainee Program
DG Bank AG, Frankfurt
Studies in Business Administration
Degree in Business Administration
(Diplom-Kaufmann)
University of Trier
Apprenticeship as a Bank Clerk
Kreissparkasse Bernkastel-Wittlich
Бие даасан бизнесийн зөвлөх
болон олон улсын банкны төслүүдийн төслийн менежер
Гүйцэтгэх захирлуудын зөвлөлийн гишүүн
Жижиглэн банкны хэлтэс
Deutsche Apotheker- und Ärztebank eG
Гүйцэтгэх захирлуудын зөвлөлийн гишүүн
Kreissparkasse Ludwigsburg
Жижиглэн банкны хэлтэс
Салбарын захирал ба хэлтсийн дарга
SparkassenVermögensManagement Өмнөд-Баруун бүс
Kreissparkasse Ludwigsburg
Удирдах зөвлөлийн даргын туслах
Kreissparkasse Ludwigsburg
Хөрөнгө оруулалт / банкууд болон үйлчилгээний компаниудын зөвлөх
Бизнесийн удирдлагын хэлтэс / Хөрөнгө оруулалт
DG Bank AG, Франкфурт
Ерөнхий дадлагын хөтөлбөр
DG Bank AG, Франкфурт
Бизнесийн удирдлагын чиглэлээр суралцсан
Бизнесийн удирдлагын зэрэгтэй
(Диплом-Кауфманн)
Триерийн их сургууль
Банкны ажилтны мэргэжлээр суралцсан
Kreissparkasse Bernkastel-Wittlich
Бие даасан бизнесийн зөвлөх
болон олон улсын банкны төслүүдийн төслийн менежер
Гүйцэтгэх захирлуудын зөвлөлийн гишүүн
Жижиглэн банкны хэлтэс
Deutsche Apotheker- und Ärztebank eG
Гүйцэтгэх захирлуудын зөвлөлийн гишүүн
Kreissparkasse Ludwigsburg
Жижиглэн банкны хэлтэс
Салбарын захирал ба хэлтсийн дарга
SparkassenVermögensManagement Өмнөд-Баруун бүс
Kreissparkasse Ludwigsburg
Удирдах зөвлөлийн даргын туслах
Kreissparkasse Ludwigsburg
Хөрөнгө оруулалт / банкууд болон үйлчилгээний компаниудын зөвлөх
Бизнесийн удирдлагын хэлтэс / Хөрөнгө оруулалт
DG Bank AG, Франкфурт
Ерөнхий дадлагын хөтөлбөр
DG Bank AG, Франкфурт
Бизнесийн удирдлагын чиглэлээр суралцсан
Бизнесийн удирдлагын зэрэгтэй
(Диплом-Кауфманн)
Триерийн их сургууль
Банкны ажилтны мэргэжлээр суралцсан
Kreissparkasse Bernkastel-Wittlich
Бие даасан бизнесийн зөвлөх
болон олон улсын банкны төслүүдийн төслийн менежер
Гүйцэтгэх захирлуудын зөвлөлийн гишүүн
Жижиглэн банкны хэлтэс
Deutsche Apotheker- und Ärztebank eG
Гүйцэтгэх захирлуудын зөвлөлийн гишүүн
Kreissparkasse Ludwigsburg
Жижиглэн банкны хэлтэс
Салбарын захирал ба хэлтсийн дарга
SparkassenVermögensManagement Өмнөд-Баруун бүс
Kreissparkasse Ludwigsburg
Удирдах зөвлөлийн даргын туслах
Kreissparkasse Ludwigsburg
Хөрөнгө оруулалт / банкууд болон үйлчилгээний компаниудын зөвлөх
Бизнесийн удирдлагын хэлтэс / Хөрөнгө оруулалт
DG Bank AG, Франкфурт
Ерөнхий дадлагын хөтөлбөр
DG Bank AG, Франкфурт
Бизнесийн удирдлагын чиглэлээр суралцсан
Бизнесийн удирдлагын зэрэгтэй
(Диплом-Кауфманн)
Триерийн их сургууль
Банкны ажилтны мэргэжлээр суралцсан
Kreissparkasse Bernkastel-Wittlich