There are two kinds of permits issued for traveling
in Tibet: the entry permit (TTB permit, equivalent of
a visa for Tibet) and the Alien travel permit (PSB permit).
Access Tibet Tourprovides both types of permit.
TTB Permit - Tibet Entry Permit
When you fly into Lhasa you will need to show this
permit when checking in at the airport. Also, in order
to buy a flight to Lhasa in the first place you will
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. Following
is a picture of a TTB permit (click on the picture to
enlarge):
PSB Permit - Alien Travel Permit
If you want to "restricted" areas in Tibet,
you will need an Alien travel permit issued by the PSB
(Public Security Bureau) of Tibet. The Alien travel
permit is also sometimes referred to as the PSB permit.
Following is a picture of the Alien travel/PSB permit
:
How to get the travel permits?
Because we are a LOCAL travel agency, we can easily
obtain travel permits on your behalf. Simply send us
the following information:
1) Your full name;
2) Your gender;
3) Your date of birth;
4) Your passport number;
5) Your nationality
All information must be exactly the same as in your
passport. In addition, we will need to know your occupation,
as journalists and government officials/political personnel
may require more complicated procedures in order to
be issued a permit. Please be advised that you need
to apply for the travel permit at least 10 days prior
to your entry date. Also note that if you do not book
a tour with ATT, we can not help you get a permit. 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."
Important Issues regarding Tibet travel permits
1. Tibet travel permits may be acquired through a travel
agency, except by the following groups of people: diplomats,
journalists, and government officials; People falling
within these categories need to contact the Foreign
Affairs Office of the Tibetan Government in order to
arrange a permit.
2. After you have got a Tibet travel permit, a travel
agency can buy you the air tickets, and only with the
permit in hand can you pass the airport check-in counter.
;
