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Home Tibet Tibet Travel Permit

Tibet Travel Permit & Tibet Visa - Cost, Entry Requirements, Restrictions 2023

Written by Senior Expert Catherine |Updated: 2023-11-16

Good News! The wait is finally over - Tibet is open to tourism and ready to welcome you with open arms!

The million-dollar question everyone wants to know: how to travel to Tibet? While traveling to Tibet can be a bit complicated due to certain restrictions and requirements. Foreigners who want to visit Tibet need to obtain a Tibet Travel Permit, also known as a Tibet Entry Permit, which is authorized by the Tibet Tourism Bureau.

But don't worry - Asia Odyssey Travel, your premier Tibet travel agency, is here to help! Our team of Tibet experts will provide you with up-to-date information on Tibet entry policies and Tibet Travel Permit application processes, ensuring you have a seamless and successful trip to Tibet. Discover the wonder and enchantment of Tibet with us!

What is Tibet Travel Permit?

The Tibet Permit, also known as the Tibet Entry Permit, is a mandatory document that allows foreign travelers to enter and travel within Tibet Autonomous Region (TAR), which is a restricted area in China. While some may call is as the Tibet Visa, it's crucial to note that it is not exactly correct as Tibet is a part of China.

 

The Tibet Permit is issued by the Tibet Tourism Bureau (TTB) and is required for all foreign travelers, regardless of whether they are traveling independently or with a group. The permit is intended to regulate and guide tourism in the region, and it's issued only to travelers who book a tour with a registered travel agency authorized by the Tibet Tourism Bureau.

It's important to note that the Tibet Permit is not the same as the Chinese visa, and it's a separate document that you enter Tibet. Without the permit, you will not be allowed to enter or travel within Tibet, so it's essential to obtain it before your trip.

Tibet Travel Permit

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  • triangleWho Needs Tibet Permit to Tibet, Who Needn't One?
  • triangleWho Needs Tibet Permit to Tibet:
  • triangleWho Does Not Need Tibet Permit to Tibet:
  • triangleOther Extra Permits Need for Visiting Places Beyond Lhasa
  • triangleHow to Apply for Tibet Travel Permit?
  • triangleHow Much Does a Tibet Permit Cost?
  • triangleFAQs about Tibet Travel Permit You May Concern
  • triangleEntering Tibet from Nepal Border Needs a Group Visa
  • triangleExplore Tibet with Asia Odyssey Travel

Who Needs Tibet Permit to Tibet, Who Needn't One?

Type Need Don’t Need
Tourists

Foreign Travelers

Taiwan Residents

Chinese Residents

Residents of HK SAR

Residents of Macau SAR

Overseas Chinese with Chinese ID

Who Needs Tibet Permit to Tibet:

Basically, all foreign travelers are required to have Tibet Permit to enter Tibet (TAR), including expats living in China;

Journalists and diplomats and officials of foreign embassies can’t get a TTB permit as tourists. They must process the application for Tibet Permit approved by the China Foreign Affairs Office;

Visitors on business, student, or resident visas will also need a Tibet Permit and have to procure a letter of introduction from their school or employment;

Travelers from countries with visa-free access to the Chinese mainland, still need to apply for a Tibet Entry Permit.

Residents of Taiwan need a Tibet Entry Permit, including MTP holders.

Tibet Visa for Indian Citizens:  Indian citizens who plan to travel to the Ngari region ( Mount Kailash and Lake Manasarovar), Western Tibet need to apply for a Tibet Entry Permit through the Tibet-India Pilgrim Reception Center (non-governmental) and Foreign Affairs Office of TAR (governmental). If you are not planning to the Ngari region of Tibet, the application procedure for a Tibet Travel Permit is the same as for other foreign travelers.

Who Does Not Need Tibet Permit to Tibet:

Chinese residents of Hong Kong and Macau do not apply for a TTB permit to enter Tibet;

Chinese living outside of China who has a China identity card and a China passport don’t require a permit to travel to Tibet;

Special note for travelers who coming to Tibet from Nepal:You'll need to obtain a Group Visa from the Chinese Embassy in Kathmandu. This is different from the Tibet Travel Permit and is required for all foreign travelers entering Tibet from Nepal. You'll need to provide the Embassy with your Tibet Travel Permit and other necessary paperwork, and the visa process can take several days.

 

Our guests come to Potala Palace
Our guests come to Potala Palace
Our guests come to Jokhang Temple
Our guests come to Jokhang Temple

Other Extra Permits Need for Visiting Places Beyond Lhasa

If you plan to visit farther areas beyond Lhasa, extra Tibet permits are required, such as Aliens' Travel Permit (PSB Permit), Military Permit. But please don’t worry, Asia Odyssey will help to apply for all the Tibet permits you need to ensure you have a successful trip in Tibet.

The Tibet Permit - issued by the Tibet Tourism Bureau (TTB). It is a mandatory document that allows foreign travelers to enter and travel within Tibet Autonomous Region (TAR).

Aliens’ Travel Permit - issued by the Public Security Bureau. It is required when tourists are planning to travel to the 'unopened' areas.

Military Travel Permit - issued by the military affairs office, required if tourists are planning to travel to some military sensitive areas in Tibet.

Tibet Permits Need for Different Regions in Tibet
Region Tibet Permits Need
Lhasa Around

Tibet Travel Permit

Mount Everest

Tibet Travel Permit, Aliens’ Travel Permit

Shigatse

Tibet Travel Permit, Aliens’ Travel Permit

Kailash

Tibet Travel Permit, Aliens’ Travel Permit, Tibet Military Permit

Nyingchi

Tibet Travel Permit, Aliens’ Travel Permit, Tibet Military Permit

Shannan

Tibet Travel Permit, Aliens’ Travel Permit, Tibet Military Permit

Nagqu

Tibet Travel Permit, Aliens’ Travel Permit

Chamdo

Tibet Travel Permit, Aliens’ Travel Permit, Tibet Military Permit

Our guests come to Mount Everest
Our guests come to Mount Everest
 Mount Kailash Trek
Mount Kailash Trek

How to Apply for Tibet Travel Permit?

It is important to know that the application for Tibet Travel Permit is only can be arranged by a travel agency authorized by the Tibet Tourism Bureau and application from individuals is not accepted. Applying for a Tibet Travel Permit can be a complex process, but working with a reliable travel agency can help get a successful permit by just below simple 4 steps.

STEP 1: Advance Planning:

Decide on your travel dates and itinerary, including which places you want to visit in Tibet. Keep in mind that certain areas may require additional permits. The application process can take 2 weeks, so it's important to plan ahead.

STEP 2: Choose a Travel Agency:

You'll need to book your trip through a travel agency authorized by the Tibet Tourism Bureau. The agency will help you obtain the necessary permits and arrange your itinerary.

STEP 3: Provide Necessary Documents:

You'll need to provide the travel agency with a copy of your passport and Chinese visa (Residence Permit) and other necessary documents.

STEP 4: Receive Your Permit:

Once your permit is approved, the travel agency will send it to you by email or mail. You'll need to bring a physical copy or origin one with you when you travel to Tibet.

Sample of Tibet Permit 1
Sample of Tibet Permit 1
Sample of Tibet Permit 2
Sample of Tibet Permit 2

The documents required to obtain a Tibet Permit vary depending on the type of visa you held. If you are not an L (Tourist) Visa holder, you are required to provide additional documents.

Extra documents needed are as follows:
Purpose of Visit Visa Types Don’t Need
BusinessWorkCrewTalent

F

Z

C

 

R

A proof of employment, such as a letter from your company or employer with an official stamp
Student

X1

X2

A letter of recommendation from your school with the school stamp and a scanned copy of student ID card
PrivateFamily

S1/S2

Q1/Q2

An invitation letter from your relatives and inviter’s passport information
JournalistDiplomat

J1

J2

Apply for Tibet permits through the Tibet Foreign Affairs Office. Other organizations and travel agencies in Tibet are not permitted to receive the applications.
Our guests in Namsto Lake
Our guests in Namsto Lake
Our guests in Yamdork Lake<
Our guests in Yamdork Lake

Tips for Smooth Tibet Travel Permit Process

Start planning early:

It is best to start planning your Tibet trip at least 2-3 months in advance. This will allow enough time to obtain all the necessary documents and permits. If you plan to visit restricted areas in Tibet, such as the Mount Kailash region, you may require additional permits. Apply for these permits well in advance to avoid any delays.

Get help with a travel agency well in advance:

It is better to work out your itinerary with your travel agency before Tibet permit application because the itinerary details will be included in the permit. Our travel advisor can assist you in selecting the most suitable date and transportation to reach Tibet and itinerary, and also guide you through the application process,

Provide accurate information:

The permit requires accurate information about your departure date, pre-Lhasa city, as well as your itinerary. Once the permit is processed, making changes can be difficult. If the information on the permit does not match, you may be denied boarding the train or plane to Tibet.

Ask the travel agent to organize your transportation:

It is better to ask the travel agent to organize your transportation. Because the flight and train require a Tibet permit to confirm the booking, and the permit only can be obtained by the travel agency.

Don't apply for a China visa before arriving in Nepal:

If you are entering Tibet from Nepal, you must apply for a group visa issued in Kathmandu from its China immigration offices. If you already have a China visa, it will be invalid for applying for a Tibet permit from Nepal.

Making Tibetan Incense
Making Tibetan Incens
Tibetan Calligraphy and Block Printing Expereince
Tibetan Calligraphy and Block Printing Expereince

How Much Does a Tibet Permit Cost?

Asia Odyssey is proud to offer our clients an all-inclusive and unbeatable Tibet service. When you book a tour with us, you'll enjoy our Tibet Permit service for free, with a 100% guarantee to receive your permit before your trip.

Our expert team will guide you through the application process, ensuring that all necessary documents are in order and submitted on time. We work closely with the Tibet Tourism Bureau to ensure a seamless and successful permit application process, so you can just focus on immersing yourself in the beauty, culture, and adventure of Tibet.

Our guests come to Drepung Monastery
Our guests come to Drepung Monastery
Our guests come to Namsto Lake
Our guests come to Namsto Lake
Apply for Tibet Permit Online

FAQs about Tibet Travel Permit You May Concern

How Long Does It Take to Get My Tibet Permit?

Generally, it takes 15-20 days to receive your Tibet Permit after your application has been submitted. It takes 8-9 days for the processing of Tibet Pemit in Lhasa. Then it needs to take 3-5 days to send to your hotel in  mainland of China.

However, it's important to note that the application process can take longer during holidays and festivals or when there are special events or political situations in Tibet. The processes are also not available during weekends. So we suggest you email documents to us 20 days ahead. It's better not to leave it to the last min.

Where Can I Get My Tibet Permit?

After we get your Tibet Permit in Lhasa, our staff will mail it to your hotel in your Tibet-entry cities in mainland of China. Under extreme circumstances, our staff will manage to deliver it to you in person at the airport or railway station.

When Will Your Tibet Travel Permit Be Checked?

Your Tibet Travel Permit will be checked at various points before or during your trip to Tibet. Here are the main checkpoints where your permit will be checked:

Checkpoint at the point of entry: When you first enter Tibet, your permit will be checked at the checkpoint at the train station or airport. Without a Tibet permit, even you are not allowed to board a train or plane.Hotels: When you check into a hotel in Tibet, the staff will ask to see your Tibet Travel Permit.Attractions: Many tourist attractions in Tibet, such as temples and monasteries, require visitors to show their Tibet Travel Permit before entering.Checkpoints on the road: If you're traveling by road in Tibet, there may be checkpoints where your permit will be checked.

It's important to keep your Tibet Travel Permit with you at all times during your trip to Tibet, as you may be asked to show it at any point.

Can I Apply for a Tibet Permit without a Tour?

No, it is not possible to apply for a Tibet Permit without a tour package. The Chinese government requires all foreign visitors to Tibet to travel with a guided tour and a private tour guide. To obtain a Tibet Permit, you must book a tour package through a travel agency authorized by the Tibet Tourism Bureau. The travel agency will handle the permit application process for you. In addition, independent travel is not allowed in Tibet and the Tibet Permit can’t be sold separately.

Can I Apply for a Tibet Permit on My Own?

No. Application from individuals is not accepted. You must apply from your Tibet travel permit by a travel agency authorized by the Tibet Tourism Bureau.

Can I Travel with My Chinese Friends in the Same Group?

Expats might want to travel with their Chinese colleagues, friends, or relatives. Yes, we can make you on the same group tour or organize a private tour for just your group.

Chinese don't need a Tibet Travel Permit, just bring their Chinese ID card.

Expats need to follow the local travel policies and restrictions to obtain a Tibet Travel Permit.

Our guests in Tashilumpo Monastery
Our guests in Tashilumpo Monastery
Our guests in Karola Glacier
Our guests in Karola Glacier
More Questions to Ask Us

Entering Tibet from Nepal Border Needs a Group Visa

If you are entering Tibet from Nepal, you need to go to the Chinese Embassy in Kathmandu to obtain a Group visa ( namely Chinese Tourist Group Visa). It is a special Group Visa only for foreign travelers who enter Tibet via Nepal. Besides, the Group Visa usually be valid for no more than 30 days and will only be issued to a tourist group that consists of at least 5 travelers. And you have to travel together both in and out of China via a pre-arranged tour with a travel agency. (Note: The Chinese Visa you have got in your home country is invalid for Tibet entry from Nepal.)

To apply for a China group visa, you need to have an invitation letter which we have applied for from the Tibet Tourism Bureau. Our Tibet office will send the Tibet permit details and invitation letter to the Chinese embassy in Kathmandu to assist you in applying for a group visa.

A group visa is a separate sheet of paper with all the names and passport numbers of the group member.

China Group Visa
China Group Visa
Welcome our guests with Hada
Welcome our guests with Hada
Our guests in Tibetan Restaurant
Our guests in Tibetan Restaurant

Explore Tibet with Asia Odyssey Travel

Local based in Lhasa and Tibet for over 10 years, our local team at Asia Odyssey Travel has carefully designed Tibet tours that offer a truly authentic and unforgettable experience. You can choose to travel in the comfort of a private tour with a flexible itinerary or join a group tour that's budget-friendly without compromising on quality. Whatever your preference, Asia Odyssey Travel has a tour that caters to your needs and desires, ensuring that your journey to Tibet is an unforgettable adventure.

If you have any questions about this article, please contact us by submitting the following form and we'll immediately get back to you.

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