Entry req for Tashkurgan Border Crossing Pakistan to China

Question

Hi everyone,

I have a New Zealand passport and want to enter China from Pakistan through the Xinjiang border at Takhskurgan. Do I need a special permit for this area, or is a regular Chinese visa enough? thanks in advance

Answer

Entering China from Pakistan via the Tashkurgan border in Xinjiang is subject to special regulations due to the sensitive nature of the region. Xinjiang, particularly the border areas like Tashkurgan near the Pakistan border, requires more than just a standard Chinese visa for foreign travelers.

Here are the key points for a New Zealand passport holder:

A regular Chinese visa (e.g., L visa for tourism) is necessary but not sufficient for entering the Tashkurgan border area.
You will need a Xinjiang Frontier Permit (also called the “Xinjiang Travel Permit” or “Entry Permit for Restricted Areas”). This is required for travel to border regions and certain remote areas in Xinjiang.
The permit is usually issued through a Chinese travel agency and often requires you to be part of an organized tour or to have a local guide. Independent travel may be restricted.

Additional important considerations:

Application for the permit can take several days and requires submitting passport details and travel itinerary in advance.
Border crossing hours and procedures can be strict. Check the Tashkurgan border crossing schedule and confirm with the local authorities or your tour operator.
Security checks are more stringent in Xinjiang, and travelers are expected to carry valid identification, visa, and permit at all times.

In summary, for a New Zealand citizen planning to cross from Pakistan into China via Tashkurgan:

Obtain a valid Chinese visa first.
Apply for a Xinjiang Frontier Permit before your trip. This is mandatory for the border area.
Consider arranging travel through a recognized tour operator to facilitate the permit and border crossing process.

Failing to obtain the Frontier Permit may result in being denied entry at Tashkurgan, even with a valid Chinese visa. Planning in advance and coordinating with authorities or a tour operator is strongly recommended.

Entry req for Tashkurgan Border Crossing Pakistan to China

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