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How to Get a Chinese Visa for Your Tibet Tour: the Ultimate Guide

Jun 28, 2024 3:24 By

Planning a magical Tibet tour? Securing a Chinese Visa is a vital step for your journey. Don't worry; our ultimate guide is here to make it easy. We'll walk you through the process, step by step, ensuring a smooth experience. From visa types to necessary documents, we've got you covered. Let's dive in and make your dream trip a reality!

Do I Need a Chinese Visa for Tibet?

Many foreign travelers reckon that Tibet Travel Permit is the only document they need to prepare when planning a tour to Tibet. Actually, it’s a big misunderstanding. If a foreigner wants to visit the Tibet Autonomous Region (TAR), a province of China, he or she should get a Chinese Visa first, and then apply for the Tibet Travel Permit.

A Chinese Visa is a permit issued by the Chinese Visa authorities to a foreigner for entry into, exit from or transit through China. The Chinese Visa authorities issue a Diplomatic, Courtesy, Official or Regular Visa to a foreigner according to his/her status, purpose of visit or passport type. The overseas Chinese Visa authorities are Chinese embassies, consulates and other offices authorized by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of China.

Chinese Visa

A sample of Chinese Visa

Visa-free Entry for Travelers

Starting from July 26th, China has reinstated the visa-free policy for short-term stays for citizens of Singapore and Brunei. So, no visa is required for ordinary passport holders from Singapore and Brunei to visit China for up to 15 days for business, sightseeing, visiting relatives and friends or transit. As of now, Japan has not had its visa-free policy reinstated.

Besides, with the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) Business Travel Card, foreigners can enter China without the need for a visa application. Holding a valid APEC business travel card allows individuals to enjoy a stay in China for a duration of up to 60 days.

Furthermore, for those who hold foreigners' permanent residence certificates issued by the People's Republic of China Public Security Bureau (PSB), there is no requirement to apply for a Chinese Visa. However, foreigners who come to China for study, employment, or as resident correspondents must complete the application for foreigners' Residence Permits within one month of their arrival in the country.

Visa free for Singapore passport holders

Ordinary passport holders from Singapore can visit China without a visa.

Visa-free Transit for Travelers

For foreigners who are transiting through China on their way to a third country or region, they can stay in a transit city for less than 24 hours without leaving the airport. Instead of applying for a Chinese Visa, they only need to apply for a temporary entry permit directly at the airport.

This policy applies to almost all foreigners and covers most major cities in China with international airports, including Beijing, Shanghai, Guangzhou, Chengdu, Chongqing, Hangzhou, Nanjing, and Tianjin.

Which Type of Chinese Visa Do I Need?

When determining the type of Chinese Visa you need, consider the following options:

Chinese Tourist Visa (L): issued to a foreigner who comes to China for sightseeing, family visiting or other private purposes. If you plan to visit Tibet, one province of China, for tourism or leisure purposes, this visa is appropriate.

Chinese Tourist Visa

A sample of Chinese Tourist Visa (L Visa)

Work Visa (Z): issued to a foreigner who comes to China for a post or employment, and his or her accompanying family members. If you intend to work in China, you’ll need a Work Visa (Z).

Student Visa (X): issued to a foreigner who plans to stay in China for more than 6 months for the purpose of studying, pursuing advanced studies, or engaging in internships.

Business Visa (F): issued to a foreigner who is invited to China for a visit, an investigation, a lecture, to do business, scientific-technological and culture exchange, short-term advanced studies or internship for no more than 6 months.

Other Types of Chinese Visa: depending on your specific circumstances, there might be other types of visas available, like Crew Visa (C) issued to crew members, Q Visa issued to relatives of Chinese citizens, etc. Make sure to check with the Chinese embassy or consulate for the most suitable visa category for your situation.

What Documents to Prepare for Applying for Chinese Visa?

To apply for a Chinese Visa, you will need to prepare essential documents, including a valid passport, a completed visa application form, and a recent passport-type photo.

Your passport should have a minimum 6-month validity upon entry to China. The visa application form can be downloaded from the Chinese embassy website and can be completed digitally, printed, and signed, or completed online in certain countries like the UK. The photo should adhere to specific requirements like a white background and dimensions of approximately 48mmx33mm.

Valid Passport

A valid passport is required for applying for Chinese Visa.

Additionally, the supporting documents needed vary depending on the visa type; for example, a tourist L visa application would require round-trip tickets, hotel bookings, or an invitation letter from your China travel agency.

How to Apply for Chinese Visa for Tibet Travel?

Generally speaking, a Chinese Visa should be applied through a Chinese Embassy in your home country or in a third country. Alternatively, you can also apply to a Chinese consulate or a China Application Service Center.

If you enter Tibet from Mainland China, DO NOT list Tibet as the travel destination when filling the application form. Otherwise, you might be rejected. It is wise to list cities like Beijing, Shanghai and Chengdu as your travel destination.

If you enter Tibet from Nepal, it is not necessary to apply for the Chinese Visa in your home country, because you need to apply for the Group Tourist Visa through the Chinese Embassy in Kathmandu. Whether you've already got a Chinese Visa or not, you must get a new one in Kathmandu. Once you get the Chinese Group Visa in Nepal, your visa obtained before becomes invalid automatically.

China Group Visa

A sample of China Group Visa for entering Tibet from Nepal

Besides, for expats working in China, you usually have already obtained a work visa (also called Z visa) or a residence permit. On this occasion, you only need to apply for the Tibet Travel Permit for your Tibet tour.

How Much does a Chinese Visa Cost?

The cost of a Chinese Visa varies greatly based on your nationality and how many times you plan to enter China. For Americans, it's usually USD 185, and for UK citizens, it's around EUR 151. For citizens of other countries, the fee can be anywhere from $30 to $180.

You typically pay the visa fee when you collect your visa, but in some places, you might need to pay when you apply. If you choose to apply through the Chinese Visa Application Service Center, there will be additional service fees and taxes.

How Long does It Take to Get a Chinese Visa?

The processing time for a Chinese Visa is typically four working days, but there might be additional non-working days due to Chinese public holidays. In case of an emergency, you can expedite your application by paying an additional fee for faster processing.

Get Chinese Visa

You can pay an additional fee to get your Chinese Visa earlier.

For the best results, it is recommended to apply for a China Visa one or two months before your planned departure date. Usually, the visa is valid for 90/180 days from the date of issue, which means you can apply as early as three months before your departure.

Do I Need a Multiple Entry Visa for My China Tour including Tibet?

Some foreign tourists would wonder, “If I enter Tibet from Mainland China and return to Mainland China after travel, should I get a multiple entry visa before entering China?” No. There is no need, because Tibetan Autonomous Region is a part of China. Tourists never leave the territory of China when traveling in Tibet.

How about the Tibet Travel Permit after Getting the Chinese Visa?

Obtaining a Chinese Visa marks the initial step in your journey. However, for visiting Tibet, an additional requirement is the Tibet Travel Permit. Unlike the Chinese Visa, the Tibet Travel Permit cannot be obtained individually. To secure this permit, you must contact an authorized Tibetan travel agency. The necessary documents for application include your Chinese Visa and passport. Only once you have the permit can you travel to Tibet by train or flight.

Tibet Travel Permit

Tibet Travel Permit

As a leading tour operator with years of experience, we can help ensure a smooth process in obtaining your Tibet Travel Permit. Just send us the necessary documents in advance, and we'll handle the application for you.

Conclusion

Obtaining a Chinese Visa for your Tibet tour is essential and demands a thorough preparation. You need to carefully consider the visa type and ensure all necessary documents are ready. Also, remember to obtain the Tibet Travel Permit after obtaining the Chinese Visa. If you still have any questions regarding the Chinese Visa for Tibet, please don't hesitate to contact us for inquiries.

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34 Comment ON "How to Get a Chinese Visa for Your Tibet Tour: the Ultimate Guide"

Jun 21, 2024 2:17
Asked by Ke** from Singapore

Cycling Tour to Mt Kailash

Hi , we are planning a Cycling Trip once Tibet opens for Tourism. The plan is we shall arrive to Kathmandu , travel to the border and enter via Kerung. Can you pls send a day to day Itinerary starting from Kerung - Lake Manasarovar - Darchen - Asthapath. We shall go around Kailash on foot and resume Cycling back to Kerung. We are a Group of 6-8 persons. Thanks Pls send ur reply to Kevin

Jun 21, 2024 2:17
Answered by Tibet Vista

Thanks for your inquiry. Our travel expert will send you a detailed itinerary according to your plan and help you arrange the best trip. Please check your email box.

Jun 21, 2024 12:30
Asked by Debo** from USA

Please can you tell me the prices and dates for the Tibet Luxury Tour.

Also, could you please provide a detailed itinerary - I want to see how many hours are spent on buses/vehicles. Thank you! Deborah

Jun 21, 2024 12:31
Answered by Tibet Vista

Thank you for your inquiry. Travel time by vehicle depends on your route. For tours outside Lhasa, it often involves several hours of driving, with opportunities for short stops in local villages. Our one-on-one travel consultant will contact you to learn more about your plans and provide detailed schedules based on your route.

Jun 20, 2024 6:59
Asked by S** from HongKong

Tibet Tour from HK

May I know if holding Mainland Travel Permit for HK Residents. is it also need to get the visa permit to Tibet and what is the procedure if need to apply? Thank you

Jun 20, 2024 7:00
Answered by Tibet Vista

Dear Shek, Thank you for reaching out and we are here to help. For Hong Kong residents that want to travel to Tibet, a Tibet Travel permit is not required, as long as you have the HKSAR passport, as well as the Home Return Permit (HRP). Officially known as the Mainland Travel Permit for Hong Kong and Macao Residents, the HRP can be issued to Chinese nationals that are permanent residents of Hong Kong in order to enter mainland China. Cheers!

Jun 20, 2024 2:30
Asked by Na** from USA

Is Kailash Mansarovar Trip open for Indian Passport Holder?

Is it open for Indian Passport Holder?

Jun 20, 2024 2:30
Answered by Tibet Vista

Dear Nayak, Thank you for reaching out! We're here to help. Well, for Indian passport holders who plan to visit Mt. Kailash, you have to book your Tibet tour with a licensed Nepali or Indian travel agency that is authorized by the Foreign Affairs Office of TAR or Pilgrim Center (also known as Tibet-India Pilgrim Reception Center) to get your Tibet Travel Permit and run your Tibet tour. If you are an Indian origin who lives outside of India and have another passport, let's say a US or Canadian passport, in this case, we can help you get the Tibet Travel Permit and other travel documents and arrange the Mt. Kailash tours for you.

Jun 16, 2024 9:40
Asked by A** from Singapore

Enquiry on private tour

We are planning a trip from Hong Kong to Tibet during the 12th to 21st of April. We want a private tour that covers all the scenic places as well as the EBC. Please advise an itinerary along with the cost breakdown. Thanks.

Jun 16, 2024 9:40
Answered by Tibet Vista

Dear Azmi, Thanks for your inquiry. A viable option is to fly from HK to Chengdu and later take Chengdu-Lhasa train to Lhasa. You may enjoy the Lhasa to EBC tour from Lhasa to Gyantse, Shigatse, and EBC, which is the most popular itineraries in Tibet. Our travel consultants will have a detailed discussion with you and give you an accurate quotation. Looking forward to seeing you in Lhasa. Best Wishes.

Jun 15, 2024 11:14
Asked by Na** from Canada

We would like to take the train from Xining to Lhasa

Hello We are a family of 3 (2 adults, 1 child) and would like to visit Tibet again in 2025. We would like to take the train from Xining to Lhasa, then stay in Lhasa and mostly just walk around Barkhor, but also visit 3 monasteries: Sera (by bus), Drak Yerpa (by pilgrimage bus) and Tschokhang. We would like to stay in Lhasa for 10 days total, then leave by plane. Can you arrange a permit for this trip for us (3 Canadians)? Best regards, Brigitte Mueller

Jun 15, 2024 11:14
Answered by Tibet Vista

Dear Nancy, We appreciate your message and are here to help. Of course, it is our great privilege to arrange a private Lhasa family tour for your family and help you secure the Tibet Travel Permit and Xining-Lhasa train ticket to Lhasa. Our friendly travel consultants will discuss with you for more details and help you plan an uplifting Tibet tour. Cheers!
Jun 15, 2024 11:12
Asked by Gr** from Canada

The "Tibet Entry Permit" should be apply

I heard from my friend that says there is difference between the above mentioned are: "Individual Tibet Entry Permit" - Individual Entering Tibet is granted. "Group Tibet Entry Permit" - Anyone from the group is Absent, the whole group is deny entry. May I know which one is the correct facts?

Jun 15, 2024 11:12
Answered by Tibet Vista

Tibet Travel Permit, the required travel document for entering Tibet Autonomous Region, has no distinction between individual and group. . What your friends might have mentioned is the Group Visa, specifically required for entry into Tibet from Nepal. You'll have to apply for the Group Visa at the Chinese Embassy in Kathmandu, and you'll need at least four people in your group. You'll all have to enter and leave Tibet together. But if you're entering Tibet from mainland China, you don't need this group thing. Our travel consultant will contact you with more details and help you arrange your trip to Tibet.
Jun 15, 2024 11:10
Asked by Tam** from Singapore

Sightseeing Potala Palace

I would like to travel to Tibet in September 2024 from Kathmandu. Sightseeing Potala Palace, Jokhang temple and many more.

Jun 15, 2024 11:10
Answered by Tibet Vista

Dear Tamang, We appreciate your message and are here to help. September is a perfect time to travel from Kathmandu to Tibet. You can sign up for our 8-day Kathmandu to Lhasa overland small group tour via Gyirong, EBC and Shigatse. This tour has fixed departures on Sept 6/13/20/27 and you can travel with other global travelers to share the tour cost. Another great option is to fly from Kathmandu to Lhasa and book the 8-day Lhasa to Everest Base Camp Small Group Tour to admire the majestic Himalayan range and travel across Lhasa and Shigatse, two of the biggest cities in Tibet. For both ways, our travel agents will help you get your Tibet Travel Permit and other travel documents needed and arrange the accommodations, local expert guide, etc. based on your travel preferences and interests. Cheers!
Jun 15, 2024 11:06
Asked by Ka** from Singapore

plan to travel to Mount Kailash

Hi I am Indian residing in Singapore and plan to travel to Mount Kailash in first week of September. I am all by myself and would like to join any travel group. How do i apply for tibet visa? How do i apply for Chinese visa? Could you help me with Travel Itinerary? Regards.

Jun 15, 2024 11:06
Answered by Tibet Vista

Dear Kadam, We appreciate your message and are here to help. If you are an Indian national with a Singapore passport, you can sign up for our 15-day Kailash and Manasarova Small Group Tour that departs on Sept, 1st. Firstly, you need to go to the Chinese Embassy in Singapore and fill out the application form to apply for the Chinese Visa yourself. After you get your Chinese Visa, you are expected to email the photos of your Singapore passport information page and Chinese Visa page to us to apply for Tibet Travel Permit on your behalf. Remember to do this at least 20 days before your departure to Tibet. We will manage to deliver the Tibet Travel Permit to your hotel in the Chinese arrival city. So, you can show the Tibet Permit and board the flight or train to Lhasa. Our expert travel agents will offer you more details and help you plan a seamless Lhasa to Mt. Kailash tour. Cheers!
Jun 15, 2024 11:04
Asked by Nyen** from India

Lhasa potala place visit and monastery visit

Lhasa potala place visit and monastery visit, we are three people and 2 adults and 1 infant 2 Indian Passport and 1 Nepal passport. we have applied for a China visa also.

Jun 15, 2024 11:04
Answered by Tibet Vista

Dear Nyendak, Thank you for reaching out! Well, if you have applied a China Visa, a great option is to email the image of your Chinese visa page to us and we can help you apply for Tibet Travel Permit on your behalf. So, you can fly from Kathmandu to Lhasa for Tibet visit. A recommended tour for you is 5 Days Lhasa and Yamdrok Lake Small Group Tour where you can visit the landmarks of Tibetan monasteries in Lhasa and explore the holy turquoise Yamdrok Lake on a short excursion. Another important thing to consider is that due to the high elevation and thin air in Tibet, do consult a doctor to decide if it is safe to bring the infant to Tibet for travel with you. Our expert travel consultants will discuss more with you and help you plan a perfect Tibet journey. Cheers!

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