Tibet

Tibet Visa Information

Traveling to Tibet requires specific permits and visa arrangements that differ from standard travel within China. As regulations are subject to change, it is essential to follow the correct process based on your travel route.

Traveling to Tibet via Kathmandu, Nepal

If you’re planning to visit Tibet, you will need a Tibet Visa, specifically the Tibet Group Visa (TGV), which must be obtained from the Chinese Embassy in Kathmandu, Nepal. Nepal is a popular starting point for travelers heading into Tibet, and the application process requires several key documents and steps to ensure a smooth entry.

Travelers entering Tibet from Nepal must obtain the Tibet Group Visa (TGV) from the Chinese Embassy in Kathmandu.

Business Hours: Monday-Friday (Closed on Saturdays, Sundays, and Public Holidays)

Submission of applications: Monday-Friday, 9:00 to 10:00.

Collection: Monday-Friday 12:00 to 15:00.

Tibet Group Visa Type: Single Entry.

Payment mode – Payable in Nepali Currency (cash) and subject to change.

Tibet Group Visa (TGV) Requirements:

To apply for the Tibet Group Visa, the following documents are required:

• 2 copies of the visa invitation issued by the Tibet Tourism Bureau
• When applying, the applicant from a third country must be in Nepal with a valid Nepalese visa
• Original passport with a minimum validity of 6 months from the date of departure
• Recent passport-sized photo (353 × 472) with white background (not cropped from passport)
• Passport copy and Nepal visa copy (2 copies each)
• Confirmed hotel booking and day-to-day travel itinerary
• Confirmed flight ticket (in case of flying to Tibet)

Additional Documents Required:

• Completed visa application form (2 pages)
• Signed privacy declaration form
• Tibet agent license number
• Finalized travel itinerary

Important Notes on Tibet Group Visa

1. To issue the Tibet Group Visa, a minimum of 4 travelers is required. In case of fewer passengers, additional individuals must be added, and their passports should be submitted during processing. Visa fees will apply accordingly.
2. If you already have a Chinese visa stamped on your passport, it will be invalidated when the Group Visa is issued by the Chinese Embassy in Kathmandu.
3. The Chinese Group Visa for Tibet cannot be extended.

Important Visa Policy Update (2025–2026)

Recent updates to Chinese visa policies have simplified entry requirements for mainland China:

• Travelers applying for a Chinese tourist visa (L visa) in certain countries (such as the United States) may no longer need to submit round-trip flight bookings, hotel reservation confirmation, a travel itinerary, or an invitation letter.
• Visa-free entry (up to 30 days) is now available for select nationalities, including UK, Canadian, and some EU passport holders, for travel within mainland China.

New Flexibility for Travelers

• Travelers holding a valid Chinese tourist visa (covering the full travel period) can now use it to travel from Nepal to Tibet without cancellation.
• If the visa is in an expired passport, both old and new passports must be carried.
• For eligible visa-free nationalities:
  • The Tibet Travel Permit can be processed using only the passport, simplifying the procedure.

Important Advisory

Applicants must not mention plans to visit Tibet during the Chinese visa application process, as Tibet requires a separate permit procedure.

For more information, contact us at info@dharmadmc.com