Aliens Travel Permit for Tibet (2026): Latest Policy, Exemptions & Application Guide
Traveling beyond Lhasa into the remote and sacred regions of Tibet requires special documentation. One of the most important permits for foreign travelers is the Aliens Travel Permit, also known as the PSB Permit.
If you are planning to visit places like Mount Kailash, Ngari Prefecture, Nagqu, or Qamdo, understanding the latest 2026 regulations is essential.
This guide explains who needs the Aliens Travel Permit, the updated exemption policy, required areas, costs, and how the application process works.
What Is the Aliens Travel Permit (PSB Permit)?
The Aliens Travel Permit is issued by the Public Security Bureau (PSB) of Tibet. It allows foreign travelers to visit restricted areas outside Lhasa.
While Lhasa city itself does not require this permit, many regions across Tibet do. The permit acts as official authorization to enter areas considered sensitive or remote.
It is different from the Tibet Travel Permit and is arranged only after you arrive in Tibet.
2026 Latest Policy Updates
As of 2026, there have been no major procedural changes. However, an important exemption policy introduced on June 4, 2025, remains in effect.
Areas Now Exempt from the Aliens Travel Permit
Foreign travelers no longer need the Aliens Travel Permit for certain popular routes, including:
- Nyingchi (including Basum Tso)
- Shigatse (including Mount Everest Base Camp and Gyirong)
- Shannan (including Samye Monastery)
- The G318 Sichuan–Tibet Highway route
These exemptions make travel to Everest Base Camp, Nyingchi scenic routes, and Samye Monastery easier than before.
No additional changes have been announced for 2026 beyond these exemptions.
Areas That Still Require the Aliens Travel Permit (2026)
Despite the new exemptions, several regions still require the PSB Permit.
| Area / Prefecture | Specific Locations | PSB Permit Required in 2026 |
|---|---|---|
| Mount Everest Base Camp | Shigatse all counties | No (Exempt since 2025) |
| Mount Kailash | Kailash pilgrimage region only | No (Exempt since 2025) |
| Shannan | Tsedang and nearby areas, including Samye Monastery | No (Exempt since 2025) |
| Nyingchi | All travel routes, where foreign are allowed | No (Exempt since 2025) |
| Ngari Prefecture | Zanda County, Gar County, Gertse County, Gekyi County | Yes |
| Nagqu | Including Nyima County and Baingoin County, other counties | Yes |
| Qamdo | All counties | Yes |
Travelers heading to western Tibet, especially for the Mount Kailash pilgrimage or remote border areas, must still obtain the permit.
Who Needs the Aliens Travel Permit?
The permit applies to foreign passport holders visiting restricted areas in Tibet.
Diplomats, journalists, and government officials follow different procedures through the Foreign Affairs Office of the Tibet authorities.
Ordinary tourists must travel through a licensed Tibet travel agency. Independent travel in Tibet is not allowed.
How to Apply for the Aliens Travel Permit
The application process is simple and handled by your travel agency.
When Is It Processed?
The permit is arranged after you arrive in Tibet, usually in:
- Lhasa
- Shigatse
- Nyingchi
Documents Required
You must provide:
- Your original passport
- Valid Chinese visa
- Tibet Travel Permit
Your guide will submit these documents to the local Public Security Bureau.
Processing Time and Cost
- Processing time: Usually few minutes
- Cost: Around 50 RMB per person
The permit is issued quickly, making it convenient for travelers already on an organized itinerary.
How the Permit Is Checked
The Aliens Travel Permit is inspected at:
- Highway checkpoints
- Hotels and attraction sites
- Border control stations
If your itinerary includes restricted regions or remote counties in Ngari or Nagqu, your guide must present the permit during inspections.
This is why planning your route with an experienced Tibet tour agency is essential.
Other Required Permits for Tibet Travel
In addition to the Aliens Travel Permit, travelers may need other documents depending on their itinerary.
- Tibet Travel Permit (TTP): The Tibet Travel Permit is mandatory for all foreign travelers entering Tibet. It is issued by the Tibet Tourism Bureau.
- Military Area Permit: Travel to military-sensitive regions, including parts of Ngari or border areas, may require a Military Area Permit.
- Border Permit: Some border areas may require this, depending on the route and location.
Your travel agency will confirm whether this applies to your itinerary.
Important Travel Rules for Foreign Visitors
- Independent travel is not allowed in Tibet.
- You must join an organized tour arranged by a registered Tibet travel agency.
- Permits cannot be applied for individually.
- Agencies require scanned passport and visa copies before travel.
- You must carry your original passport during your trip.
Permit policies are strictly enforced at checkpoints.
Understanding the Aliens Travel Permit and the updated 2026 exemption policy is essential when planning travel beyond Lhasa. With the correct permits arranged through a licensed agency, you can explore sacred mountains, remote prefectures, and culturally rich regions across Tibet without complications.
