Working in Mongolia as an expat can be a unique and rewarding experience. It offers many benefits such as the opportunity to experience a different culture first-hand, gain international work experience, and access to higher salaries than what is generally available locally. However, certain challenges come with working in Mongolia that should be taken into account before deciding to move here. This includes understanding the job market, getting familiar with the tax system, dealing with cultural differences, and navigating through the bureaucracy of obtaining work permits and visas. This guide will provide an overview of the benefits and challenges of working in the country as an expat as well as help you find suitable jobs and understand salaries and taxes.
Benefits of working in Mongolia as an expat
One of the main benefits of working in the nation as an expat is the opportunity to work in the mining industry, which is the country’s largest industry. Mongolia is rich in mineral resources, including coal, copper, and gold, making it an attractive destination for mining companies. As an expat, you can work in a range of roles, from mining engineers to project managers, and gain valuable experience in the industry.
Another advantage of working in Mongolia is the low cost of living. Compared to other countries in the region, such as Japan or South Korea, the country offers a more affordable living experience. As an expat, you can take advantage of this by saving more money or living a more comfortable lifestyle.
Challenges of working in Mongolia as an expat
One of the main challenges of working in Mongolia as an expat is the language barrier. The country is the official language, and although many people speak English, it may be difficult to communicate with locals who do not. It is recommended that expats learn some basic Mongolian to help them communicate with locals.
An additional challenge is the harsh climate. The nation experiences extreme temperatures, with hot summers and cold winters. The weather can be challenging for expats who are not used to the climate, and it can also affect their work productivity.
Jobs and pays
Expats can find jobs in a range of industries in the country, including mining, education, and tourism. The mining industry is the largest employer of expats, and there are also opportunities in the education sector for English teachers. In the tourism industry, emigrants can work as tour guides or in hospitality roles.
Resources to search for jobs
Before going to the country, expats can search for jobs on online job boards and recruitment agencies. Websites like Jobs.MN and LinkedIn are popular for finding jobs in Mongolia. Recruitment agencies like Hays and Michael Page also have a presence in Mongolia and can help emigrants find jobs.
Salaries
Salaries in the nation vary depending on the industry and the job role. Expats functioning in the mining industry typically earn the highest salaries, with project managers and senior engineers earning around $150,000 per year. English teachers can expect to earn around $1,000 to $1,500 per month.
Taxes
Taxes in Mongolia are relatively low compared to other countries in the region. The personal income tax rate is 10%, and there are no social security contributions for expats. However, expats will need to pay taxes on their worldwide income if they stay in the country for more than 183 days in a tax year.
Final thoughts
In conclusion, working in the nation as an expat offers a unique opportunity to experience a different culture and gain valuable work experience. However, expats should be aware of the challenges, such as the language barrier and harsh climate. For those interested in functioning in Mongolia, there are opportunities in a range of industries, including mining, education, and tourism. Expats can search for jobs on online job boards and recruitment agencies before going to Mongolia. Salaries in the country vary depending on the industry and job role, and taxes are relatively low compared to other countries in the region.
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