Visas and Documents for Tibet

When traveling to Tibet, you’ll need several documents and permits to explore the beauty this amazing place has to offer.

One important thing every traveler should know is that you cannot travel to Tibet on your own; you must have a certified travel guide.

I created this guide for visas and documents for Tibet to help anyone traveling to Tibet for the first time and unsure where to start.

Let’s see what types of visas and documents you will need to travel to Tibet.

“Journey to Tibet, where every mountain whispers ancient secrets and the horizon stretches into the heart of the sky.”

Chinese Visa

Before traveling to Tibet, you need to obtain a Chinese visa. This can be done at the Chinese Embassy or Consulate in your home country. Make sure your passport is valid for at least six months from the date of your application.

Tibet Travel Permit

To enter Tibet, foreign travelers must have a Tibet Travel Permit, also known as a Tibet Entry Permit. This permit is issued by the Tibet Tourism Bureau and is required for all travelers. You cannot apply for this permit on your own; it must be arranged through a licensed Chinese travel agency.

Additional Permits

Depending on your travel itinerary, you might need additional permits:

• Aliens’ Travel Permit: Required for visiting restricted areas outside of Lhasa, such as Shigatse and Mount Everest.
• Military Permit: Needed for travel to military sensitive areas like Ngari and Nyingchi.
• Foreign Affairs Permit: Necessary for certain remote regions.

Group Travel

As I said before, independent travel is not allowed in Tibet. You must book your tour through a recognized travel agency, which will handle all necessary permits and documents for you. They will also arrange your itinerary, guide, transportation, and accommodations.

Document Check

Ensure all your documents are in order before your trip. Carry copies of your passport, Chinese visa, and Tibet Travel Permit, as these will be checked at various points during your journey.

By securing the right visas and permits, and working with a reliable travel agency, you can ensure a smooth and enjoyable trip to Tibet.

What documents do you need if you enter from Nepal

Traveling from Nepal to Tibet requires several specific documents and permits due to the unique regulations governing entry into Tibet. Here’s a detailed list of the documents you’ll need:

1. Chinese Group Visa

• What It Is: This special visa is issued for groups traveling to Tibet from Nepal. Unlike the standard Chinese visa, the Chinese Group Visa is a single-entry visa issued on a separate piece of paper and lists all travel group members.
• How to Obtain:
• Application Process: The Chinese Group Visa must be applied for through a registered travel agency in Kathmandu, Nepal. Individual applications are not accepted.
• Required Documents: You’ll need to submit your passport, a passport-sized photo, and the application form. Your travel agency will assist in this process.
• Processing Time: Typically takes 3 to 5 working days.

No matter from which country you enter Tibet, you still need a Tibet Travel Permit, and for the specific areas you’ll need an Alien’s Travel Permit and Military Permit. 

2. Frontier Pass

• What It Is: Required for travel to border areas, such as the Nepal-Tibet border.
• How to Obtain:
• Application Process: Arranged by your travel agency.
• Required Documents: Passport and Tibet Travel Permit.
• Processing Time: Issued relatively quickly, often within a day.

Important Notice: Always has with you your passport and your Tibet Travel Permit, and others necessary documents. Whenever you go, you’ll need them.

Continue reading for What to Pack for your Tibet Tour.