Tibet Travel Permit

There are two kinds of permits (Tibet visa) for traveling in Tibet: the entry permit (TTB permit) and the Alien's travel permit (PSB permit).

TTB Permit - Tibet Entry Permit (Tibet visa)
When you fly or take train from any city to Lhasa you will need to show this permit when you check in at the airport or railway station. Furthermore, whenever you buy a flight or train to Lhasa you need to show this permit. TTB permits are also needed by groups traveling by Land Cruiser but this will be arranged by the travel agency organizing the trip. Here is a picture of TTB permit:

PSB Permit - Alien's Travel Permit
If you want to go further to the "unopened" areas, you need an Alien's travel permit issued by PSB of Tibet. It is called "Alien's Travel Permit" or "PSB permit". Here is a picture of PSB permit :

As a local travel agency, Visit Our China is able to assist you to get a travel permit with our help. Simply send us your:

• a copy of your Passport;
• a copy of your China visa (tourist visa);
• Full names, gender, Date of Birth, Passport number, nationality, occupation;

- all exactly the same as on your passport. And you need to tell us your occupation because journalists and people that could be involved in political matters could be revoked (they need more complicated procedure to get a permit).

You need to apply for the travel permit at least 10 days prior to your entry date.

Please note that if you do not book any tour from us, we can not help you get the permits. No travel agency can provide "permit-only" service. Here is a note from Lonely Planet:

"Lhasa PSB will not issue travel permits to individuals and will direct you to a travel agency. Agencies can arrange a travel permit to almost anywhere but only if you book a Land Cruiser, driver and a guide."

Additional Requirements for F visa customers
If you are F visa (business visa) holders, you are required to provide additional information to Tibet Tourism Bureau to get a Tibet Entry Permit:

• If you are working in China, a certification in Chinese by your company in China is required;
• If you are invited to China for business, research, lecture, scientific-technological and culture exchanges, short-term advanced studies or inter practice for a period of no more than six months, a certification by your Chinese travel agency is required.

As for the certification, you are required to provide your full names, nationality, passport number, dates of entry and exit China, and the stamps of your company or your travel agency.

Read more:

  1. Important Issues about Tibet Travel Permit

  2. Travel Permit FAQ