Europe - Lhasa flights and TAR permit ?

Question

Hello, China Southern Airlines offers very cheap flights from Budapest to Lhasa with a stopover in Guangzhou. As far as I know, you cannot board the plane if you do not show a TAR Permit ?

Is this really the case and do you need an original document or you can show a printed copy from a Tibetan travel agency? Of course, it is mandatory to purchase an organized tour to visit Tibet, but does the original permit have to be presented when boarding in Europe?If I need an original document, can agencies send it to an address in Europe?

Answer

Yes, it is true that to fly to Lhasa, Tibet (TAR – Tibet Autonomous Region), all foreign travelers must have a Tibet Travel Permit (TAR Permit). This is a strict requirement enforced by both airlines and Chinese authorities. Without this permit, you will not be allowed to board flights to Lhasa, even if you are connecting from other Chinese cities such as Guangzhou or Chengdu.

Here are the key details regarding the TAR Permit for flights originating outside China:

Mandatory for Boarding: Airlines require the TAR Permit at check-in for all flights to Lhasa. This includes flights departing from international airports in Europe. The airline staff will check your permit along with your passport before allowing you to board.
Original vs. Printed Copy: Some travelers have reported that a printed copy of the permit issued by a licensed Tibetan travel agency can be sufficient if it includes all official stamps and references. However, many airlines and Chinese authorities insist on the original permit issued by the Tibet Tourism Bureau. Policies can vary between airlines, so it is safer to confirm directly with China Southern Airlines in this case.
Obtaining the Permit: The TAR Permit is issued by a registered travel agency in Tibet. You must book an organized tour in order to apply. The agency will submit the required documents to the Tibet Tourism Bureau and obtain the permit on your behalf.
Delivery of Original Document: Some travel agencies can send the original permit by courier to your address in Europe, but this may require extra fees and advance planning. Others issue a digital or printed copy for pickup upon arrival in China; this is sometimes accepted by airlines if confirmed in advance.

Additional tips:

Always check with the airline before booking your flight to ensure they accept the type of permit you will have.
Do not attempt to board the flight without the permit, as you will be denied boarding at the check-in counter.
Keep multiple copies of your permit and passport in case of inspections during your transit in China.
Plan the timing carefully, as processing the TAR Permit can take several weeks, depending on your travel agency.

In conclusion, the TAR Permit is non-negotiable for flights to Lhasa. For European departures, it is safest to obtain the original document from a licensed agency and confirm with the airline that it will be accepted at check-in. Printed copies may sometimes work, but relying solely on them is risky and could prevent boarding.