Enrolling in the Public Healthcare System in Mongolia

If you're planning to enroll in the public healthcare system in Mongolia, this article covers the requirements for foreigners to be able enroll in the public healthcare system, the steps involved and more.

Mongolia's healthcare system has undergone significant changes in the past few decades. The public healthcare system, known as the Mongolian National Health Insurance (MNHI), is a government-funded system that provides healthcare services to all residents of Mongolia. The quality of healthcare in Mongolia has improved significantly over the years, but it still lags behind that of more developed countries. The cost of healthcare is relatively low, and it is mandatory for all residents, including foreigners living in Mongolia, to enroll in the MNHI. Despite this, many people, especially those in rural areas, still rely on traditional medicine due to the lack of access to modern healthcare facilities.

Eligibility for Foreigners

Foreigners who are legally residing in Mongolia for more than 183 days in a calendar year are required to enroll in the MNHI. This includes those who are in the country for work, study, or other long-term purposes. Tourists and short-term visitors are not required to enroll in the MNHI, but they are advised to have their own travel health insurance.

Enrollment Process

The process of enrolling in the MNHI is relatively straightforward. Here are the steps:

1. Obtain a residence permit: Before you can enroll in the MNHI, you need to have a valid residence permit. This can be obtained from the Immigration Agency of Mongolia.
2. Register with the local tax office: Once you have your residence permit, you need to register with the local tax office. You will need to provide your residence permit and passport.
3. Pay the health insurance premium: After registering with the tax office, you will be required to pay the health insurance premium. The amount varies depending on your income, but it is generally quite affordable.
4. Receive your health insurance card: Once you have paid the premium, you will receive your health insurance card. This card will allow you to access healthcare services in Mongolia.

It's important to note that the MNHI only covers basic healthcare services. For more comprehensive coverage, many foreigners choose to purchase additional private health insurance. There are several international and local insurance companies that offer health insurance plans in Mongolia.

Quality of Healthcare

While the quality of healthcare in Mongolia has improved significantly, it still falls short of international standards. The country faces a shortage of healthcare professionals, especially in rural areas, and the healthcare facilities are often outdated. Many foreigners, especially those from developed countries, find the quality of healthcare in Mongolia to be inadequate.

For this reason, many foreigners choose to seek medical treatment in other countries, such as South Korea or Thailand, where the quality of healthcare is higher. Some also choose to purchase international health insurance that covers medical evacuation, in case they need to be transported to another country for medical treatment.

In conclusion, while Mongolia's public healthcare system is accessible to foreigners, it may not provide the level of care that many are accustomed to. Therefore, it's advisable for foreigners to have a backup plan, such as private health insurance or funds for medical treatment abroad, to ensure they have access to quality healthcare.

AGS Worldwide Movers
Get Quote

Relocating abroad soon? Make your move with AGS! AGS Worldwide Movers is a leader in the international moving industry. Our experience and expertise allows us to guarantee our clients the best quality moving services.

AGS Worldwide Movers

Relocating abroad soon? Make your move with AGS! AGS Worldwide Movers is a leader in the international moving industry. Our experience and expertise allows us to guarantee our clients the best quality moving services.
Get Quote