Tibet Visa and Tibet Travel Permit Information for Travelers
If you’re planning a Tibet tour from Nepal, securing the right travel documents is critical for a hassle-free experience. This guide from Holiday Tours Nepal covers all you need to know about the Tibet Visa (officially the Tibet Travel Permit), the application process, required documents, fees, and the latest regulations for 2024–2025. Whether you’re interested in a scenic adventure or a cultural journey, our step-by-step information will help you prepare for your Tibet travel with confidence.
What is a Tibet Visa or Tibet Travel Permit?
A Tibet Visa, also called the Tibet Travel Permit, is an essential document for all foreign travelers (except Chinese and Tibetan nationals) who want to enter Tibet. Issued exclusively by the Tibet Tourism Bureau, the Tibet Travel Permit is not the same as a regular Chinese visa.
NOTE: Even if you already have a Chinese visa, you’ll still need a Tibet Travel Permit to enter Tibet.
It’s important to remember that the Tibet Travel Permit is a paper document (not a passport stamp) and is sometimes called an “invitation letter.” Tibet visa and permits cannot be applied individually for the Tibet permit —it must be arranged through a registered travel agency like Holiday Tours Nepal or any other authorized Travel & Tours agency.
NOTE: Once the Tibet visa are issued 90 percent of the time it’s a group visa with at least 4 members while entering tibet from nepal the group must travel together for checking in at the Immigration department and even while checking out the group must check out together.
How is the process of entering Tibet from nepal?
Once the visa arrives travelers travel from Kathmandu to either kerung or tatopani border complete the check in and check out process at the Nepal immigration center and proceed towards the Tibet immigration center.
After that according to the name list (Tibetan group visa name list) all the travelers must sit on a line according to the number (written in the group visa) and enter inside the immigration on queues get stamps on the passport and enter inside Tibet.
How Much Does the Tibet Visa Cost?
The Tibet Travel Permit fee depends on your nationality and the season you plan to visit. Here’s a quick reference for current Tibet visa costs (subject to change):
Nationality | Visa Fee (USD) |
Other Nationalities | 125 |
American | 215 |
Romanian | 155 |
Canadian | 195 |
Brazilian | 205 |
Argentinian | 190 |
Always check with Holiday Tours Nepal for the latest Tibet visa fees and updates before submitting your application as the fees are substance to change according to the law of Tibetan officials.
Documents Required for Tibet Travel Permit and Visa
To successfully process your Tibet Travel Permit and Tibet Visa from Nepal, you’ll need to prepare the following documents:
- Passport Copy: Clear scan of your passport, valid for at least six months. Submit this 20–25 days ahead of your planned Tibet travel.
- Original Passport: Needed at the time of group visa application in Kathmandu.
- Passport-Sized Photo: Recent color photo with white background, no glasses, and a neutral expression.
- Visa Application Form: Completed before arriving in Kathmandu.
- Chinese Visa Copy: Only required if entering Tibet from mainland China.
- Travel Itinerary: Confirmation of your Tibet tour with a registered travel company.
- Travel Insurance: Proof of insurance covering travel in Tibet.
- Visa Approval Letter: Provided by the Tibet Tourism Bureau during your application in Kathmandu.
How to Obtain a Tibet Visa in Kathmandu, Nepal
Applying for a Tibet Visa in Kathmandu comes with specific requirements:
- According to the Chinese Embassy rules, a group visa requires at least four travelers.
- The original passport must be submitted for visa processing.
- The usual processing period is 3–4 working days (Monday to Friday).
- Start your Tibet permit application at least 15–20 days before your scheduled tour to allow time for approval.
Regulations and requirements can change frequently, so always confirm the latest process and Tibet Travel Permit requirements with Holiday Tours Nepal or another registered agency before booking your Tibet tour.
Is the Tibet visa guaranteed for travellers?
Tibet visa is never guaranteed it completely depends upon the government of Tibet and China so far till date we have not have any issues regarding the visas. But, in a mixed group sometimes issues arises for Indian passport holders as the Tibet govement has high chance of denying visas for Indian passport holders. But from 2026 different rules are coming up and the Indian passport holders are gonna be allowed to enter Tibet.
What to do for 3-4 days while applying for Tibet visa?
Travellers can go for other activities that are available in nepal like going for a short trek, heading for a pilgrimage tour, going for a city tour, visiting Muktinath, Jal Narayan, Pashupatinath or any other activities that suits according to their personality, needs and priorities.
Role of the Tibet Tourism Bureau
The Tibet Tourism Bureau is the only official body authorized to issue Tibet Travel Permits and oversee tourism in Tibet. No foreign visitor can enter Tibet without this permit, which is always tied to a fixed travel itinerary. Once issued, the permit is only valid for the planned tour route.
Restrictions for diplomats, journalist govemnet officials nad medias
Certain travelers—such as diplomats, journalists, media photographers, and government officials—must obtain their Tibet Travel Permit through special Foreign Affairs arrangements, not through regular travel agencies.
China Tibet Visa-Free Policy for 2024–2025
Good news for travelers planning to visit Tibet as the govement has issued a free 15 days visa for the travellers for china and Tibet. Promoting tourism and welcoming tourist for expanding the tourism business from November 30,2024 to December 31,2025.
From November 30, 2024, to December 31, 2025, ordinary passport holders from select countries can travel to China (including Tibet) visa-free for up to 15 days. This is especially helpful for short Tibet tours or business visits. Eligible countries include:
- Europe: Austria, Belgium, Bulgaria, Croatia, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Ireland, Italy, Latvia, Liechtenstein, Luxembourg, Malta, Monaco, Montenegro, Netherlands, North Macedonia, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Romania, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Switzerland
- Asia: Brunei, Malaysia, Singapore, South Korea, Thailand
- Oceania: Australia, New Zealand
Please note that this policy applies only to ordinary passports and may be updated by Chinese authorities.
Tips for a Smooth Tibet Tour from Nepal
- Apply for your Tibet Travel Permit and Tibet Visa via a registered agency like Holiday Tours Nepal.
- Begin your application process 3–4 weeks ahead of travel to avoid delays.
- Make sure all required documents (passport, photos, itinerary) are ready and up to date.
- Stay informed about the latest Tibet visa fees, permit requirements, and China’s visa-free policy for your country.
- If you qualify for visa-free entry, confirm your eligibility before booking your Tibet tour.
Contact Holiday Tours Nepal for Expert Tibet Visa Services
Arranging your Tibet visa and permit doesn’t have to be complicated. The experienced team at Holiday Tours Nepal specializes in Tibet permits, group visas, and fully customized Tibet tour packages from Nepal. Let us handle the paperwork while you focus on your adventure to Tibet.
For detailed Tibet travel permit and visa information or to book your Tibet tour, contact Holiday Tours Nepal for trusted guidance and personalized service.
Email: [email protected]
WhatsApp: +977-9816710843
Phone: +977-9816710843
Start your Tibet journey from Nepal with confidence—choose Holiday Tours Nepal for your Tibet visa, permit, and travel needs!