What Is the Tibet Travel Permit?
Tibet Entry Permit, officially known as the Tibet Travel Permit for Foreigners, is a mandatory document required for all travelers holding a foreign passport or a Taiwan (China) passport before entering the Tibet Autonomous Region of China. The permit consists of two A4-sized pages.
The first page states the traveler’s entry and exit dates, the destinations to be visited, and the name of the receiving travel agency. The second page lists the names, birth dates, and passport numbers of all travelers, along with official approval stamps from relevant government departments and security verification marks.
Obtaining the Tibet Travel Permit for Foreigners is not complicated. You only need to apply at least one month in advance through our company, Tibet Xingyu International Travel Service Co., Ltd. We offer well-designed Tibet travel itineraries specifically for international travelers, with affordable prices and professional services. Most importantly, we have extensive experience in securely and efficiently handling the Tibet permit application process.
According to the policies of the Tibet Department of Culture and Tourism, foreign nationals are not allowed to travel independently in Tibet. Regardless of group size, all foreign visitors must join a pre-arranged and organized tour. The trip must be arranged by a travel agency that provides both private transportation and a licensed tour guide who accompanies the group throughout the journey. Therefore, the only legal way for foreigners to travel in Tibet is by joining a private group tour arranged by an authorized local travel agency.
Additionally, there are strict limitations on how foreign visitors may enter or exit Tibet. Currently, foreigners may only travel to and from Tibet by plane or train. It is strictly prohibited to enter or leave Tibet by self-driving, cycling, motorcycle, or on foot.
- Who needs the permit: Foreign nationals, travelers from Taiwan (China), and overseas Chinese holding foreign passports
- When the permit is required: It must be presented when boarding a flight or train to Tibet. The original copy is required for flights, while a printed copy is acceptable for trains
- Processing time: Usually 15 to 30 days. Travelers must submit the required documents at least 30 days in advance. If traveling during peak tourist seasons or visiting restricted areas (such as Mount Everest or Mount Kailash), at least 40 days should be allowed for processing
- Individuals cannot apply for the permit independently; it must be arranged by our travel agency
- Travel dates must be confirmed in advance. The permit can cover a longer period than your actual stay to allow flexibility in case you decide to extend your trip (for example, staying a few extra days)
- The travel route must be clearly confirmed beforehand, as the permit must list all destinations to be visited. You cannot visit any location not listed in the approved permit
- Required documents: All documents must be valid and within their expiry period
- Documents needed based on visa type: Tourist Visa (L): Passport + Visa Family Visit Visa (Q): Passport + Visa + Invitation Letter Work Visa (Z): Passport + Visa + Work Certificate Student Visa (X): Passport + Visa + Proof of Enrollment
- Travelers from countries with a visa exemption agreement with China, and whose stay is within the permitted visa-free duration, do not need to provide a visa
