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Abdullah Almansoub
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Asked: 2025-05-07T10:58:13+08:00 In:

Do I need a separate permit to visit Xinjiang as a foreign tourist?

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Do I need a separate permit to visit Xinjiang as a foreign tourist?

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    1. Tzippy hartman
      Teacher

      As a foreign tourist, you generally do not need a separate permit to visit most parts of Xinjiang, but there are exceptions for certain border areas. Here’s a detailed breakdown based on the latest policies:

      1. General Travel to Xinjiang

      • No Separate Permit RequiredForeign tourists can access major destinations like Urumqi, Kashgar, Turpan, and Kanas Lake with only a valid passport and Chinese visa (typically an L-tourist visa).
      • Visa-Free Entry PoliciesSelect nationalities (e.g., Singapore, France, Germany) enjoy 15–30 days of visa-free entry (valid through 2025), streamlining travel arrangements.

      2. When a Border Permit Is Necessary

      A Xinjiang Border Permit (边防证) is mandatory for visiting restricted border areas, including:
      • Tashkurgan County (adjacent to the Pakistan border)
      • Baihaba Village (except for holders of Hong Kong/Macau passports)
      • Border crossings at Khunjerab Pass or Horgos Port

      Application Process for the Border Permit

      • Where to ApplySubmit applications at the county-level Public Security Bureau (PSB) in Xinjiang or through a licensed local travel agency.
      • Required Documents
        • Valid passport
        • Valid Chinese visa
        • Completed application form (available on-site)
      • Processing Details
        • Free of charge and processed within 10 minutes
        • Valid for 1 month and restricted to specific declared border areas (not valid for all Xinjiang)

      3. Restricted Areas for Foreign Tourists

      The following locations are off-limits to foreign visitors regardless of permits:
      • Hongqilapu Port (Pakistan border crossing)
      • Duku Highway (except the Bayanbulak section)
      • Luobu Village (located in the Lop Nur region)

      4. Practical Travel Tips

      • Itinerary VerificationConfirm permit requirements for destinations like Tashkurgan if planning trips along the Pamir Highway.
      • Travel Agency AssistanceUse registered agencies to simplify permit applications and navigate regional restrictions efficiently.
      • Document ComplianceAlways carry your passport and visa for identification, especially when traveling in border regions where security checks are frequent.

      5. Conclusion

      Most tourist destinations in Xinjiang do not require special permits, making travel accessible with standard documentation. However, border areas demand advance planning and proper permits. Prior to travel, verify current regulations with your country’s embassy in China or a local travel agency to ensure compliance. For official updates, consult resources like the Xinjiang Public Security Bureau or China’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs.