Foreign tourists traveling to Tibet need to prepare two documents: a Chinese visa, which you can apply for at the Chinese Embassy in your location, and a Tibet Travel Permit issued by the Tibet Tourism Bureau.
Non-Chinese passport holders (including those from Taiwan, Hong Kong SAR, Macau SAR, and other countries) must possess a Tibet Travel Permit along with a valid passport and visa (tourists from countries with visa-free agreements with Hong Kong do not need a visa) to visit Tibet. The visa can be obtained from the Chinese consulate in your country. As the government encourages group travel, the permit is only issued to tour groups traveling with a Chinese travel agency. Your travel agency will handle the application process on your behalf.
Prepare Your Documents Before Traveling to Tibet There are two types of permits required for traveling to Tibet (often referred to as Tibet visas): the Entry Permit (TTB Permit) and the Alien Travel Permit (PSB Permit).
TTB Permit – Tibet Entry Permit (Tibet Visa) This permit is required when flying to Lhasa from any city. You need to present this permit at the airport during check-in. Additionally, whenever you purchase a flight to Lhasa, you must show this permit. Groups traveling by land cruiser also need the TTB Permit, but this will be arranged by the organizing travel agency.
PSB Permit – Alien Travel Permit If you wish to travel further into “unopened” areas, you will need an Alien Travel Permit issued by the Tibet Public Security Bureau. It is referred to as the “Alien Travel Permit” or “PSB Permit.” Here is an example of the PSB Permit:
Important Questions About the Tibet Travel Permit
After settling in Tibetan territory, only your tour guide can hold the travel permit. You cannot carry the travel permit with you to any place you wish to visit, as you will need another pass called the “Alien Travel Permit” outside of Lhasa. Otherwise, if you are stopped by the police, you may be deported from Tibet or face political and financial troubles.
All types of travelers can obtain the Tibet Travel Permit through a travel agency, except for diplomats, journalists, and government officials, who must arrange their visit to Tibet through the Foreign Affairs Office of the Tibet government.
Once you obtain the travel permit, your travel agency can purchase tickets for you. You can use the travel permit to check in at the airport and pass through checkpoints.
Author:TravelChinaBook,Please indicate the source:https://travelchinabook.com/how-foreigners-can-obtain-a-tibet-travel-permit-and-tibet-visa.html
