The Tibet Travel Permit is a mandatory document for visiting the Tibet Autonomous Region (TAR) of China. Issued by the Tibet Tourism Bureau in Lhasa, this special permit can only be applied for through legally registered Tibetan travel agencies based in Lhasa, Tibet.
As a result, all international travelers must book their Tibet tour with such local agencies, as individual international travel to Tibet is not permitted. Crucially, without this permit, travelers cannot board flights or trains from Mainland China to the Tibet Autonomous Region—making it the essential "gateway ticket" for entry.
Is the Tibet Travel Permit a visa for Tibet?
While the Tibet Travel Permit functions similarly to a "visa for Tibet" in practice, it is not technically a visa. International travelers first need a valid Chinese visa to enter Mainland China; only then can they use the Tibet Travel Permit (not the Chinese visa alone) to board transportation to Tibet.
How long does it take to obtain the Tibet Travel Permit?
Applications for the Tibet Travel Permit can only be submitted after a tour is confirmed, and processing typically takes at least 7 working days. For travel to non-open areas such as Ali, Shannan, or Bomi, additional documents—including a Tibet Military Permit and an Alien Travel Permit—are required, which extend the processing time. To avoid delays, booking your Tibet trip well in advance is highly recommended.
For detailed information about the Tibet Travel Permit and other Tibet travel-related queries, feel free to contact us at info@tibetroofofworld.com. Our expert local tour consultants will be happy to assist you.