Who Needs to Get a Tibet Travel Permit?

There are quite a few rules that people need to follow when they plan a trip to Tibet, and to be honest, it can get a little confusing for those who have no idea of what they need. However, once a person knows what they need to do, the entire process of applying for a Tibet travel permit is quite simple.

Here is who needs to get a Tibet travel permit:

•International Tourists need Tibet travel permits

All international tourists are required to obtain a Tibet entry travel permit prior to boarding a train or airplane to the area. In fact, any international tourist without the proper Tibet travel permit will not be allowed to board any mode of transportation for Tibet. Chinese citizens are exempt from obtaining a Tibet travel permit, because they live within the country.

•Overseas Chinese and Taiwan Tourists need Tibet travel permits

Taiwan tourists do not already have the identity card from China, so they would need to apply for a Tibet travel permit. Anyone who is Chinese but does not have a Chinese passport will also need to apply for a travel permit. This includes anyone of Chinese descent that lives somewhere other than China.

•Hong Kong and Macau Residents Do not need Tibet travel permits

Any resident of Hong Kong and Macau will not need to apply for a Tibet travel permit, but they will need to apply for the home return permit. The home return permit is also known as the mainland travel permit and it is necessary for these people so that they can return to where they live. But never forget that, like China ID holders travelling to Mt. Everest and Kailash, all Hongkong People and Macau people also need the "Bian Fang Zheng-border defense permit" which can be applied in PSB in mainland China or in Lhasa.

Tibet Travel Permits Application Guide

Once a person has determined that they will need a Tibet entry travel permit, they can talk to their local Tibet tour agency to arrange the obtainment of one. Of course, if a person is still unsure of whether they need a Tibet travel permit, their tour agency will be able to assist them in figuring out the correct answer.

Everyone will need a valid passport, that will not be expiring for at least six months, and a Chinese Visa before they can apply for a Tibet travel permit. People will need to apply for these items well in advance of their plans of applying for a Tibet travel permit.

There are a few exceptions to the above Tibet travel permit rules and certain people will never be approved for an entry permit. These people include diplomats, journalists, professional media photographers, and all government officials. If those individuals want to enter Tibet, they need to speak with someone at the Chinese Embassy.

A Tibet travel permit can take approximately three weeks to obtain, which is why everyone must plan their tours far enough in advance. This will give them plenty of time to be approved for their travel to Tibet, so that they do not need to reschedule their trip.