Planning a trip to Xinjiang? One of the most common questions from travelers is about Border Defense Permits. Many visitors aren't sure which scenic areas fall under border control, whether permits require paid processing services, or if they should obtain them before departure or upon arrival in Xinjiang. If you plan to visit the Pamir Plateau in Southern Xinjiang or Baihaba Village in Altay, you must have a valid permit; otherwise, checkpoints will deny entry. Be sure to clarify all requirements before you travel.
The Pamir Highway in the Southern Xinjiang route, including Baisha Lake, Karakul Lake, Muztagh Ata Peak, and Panlong Ancient Road, all lie within Tashkurgan County. Entry to this area requires verification of a Border Pass. Similarly, Baihaba Village in Altay is located on the border and also requires a Border Pass. If you plan to visit these attractions, please check.Southern Xinjiang Tourism CategoriesIncludes mature travel itineraries covering the Pamir Plateau.
I. Major areas in Xinjiang requiring a Border Pass
1. Tashkurgan Tajik Autonomous County, Kashgar Region: All scenic spots on the Pamir Plateau (Baisha Lake, Karakul Lake, Muztagh Ata Peak, Panlong Ancient Road)
2. Baihaba Village, Altay Prefecture, a northwestern border village
Popular attractions such as Sayram Lake, Nalati, Kanas Main Scenic Area, Kashgar Old City, Tarim Poplar Forest, and Wensu Grand Canyon require only an ID card for entry; no border pass is needed.
II. Comparison of Three Application Channels for Border Passes
Method 1: Apply at your local household registration police station or government service hall (highly recommended)
Bring your ID card to the local government service hall or police station in your registered household area for free processing. Enter the destination as: Tashkurgan Tajik Autonomous County, Kashgar Prefecture, Xinjiang; or Baihaba, Altay. Collect your document on-site. The validity period is typically 3 months. Complete this before departure to avoid queues upon arrival in Xinjiang.
Method 2: Process on-site upon arrival in Kashgar
You can also process this in person at the Kashgar Government Service Hall at no cost. However, expect long queues during peak travel seasons. We recommend allocating half a day for this. If your itinerary is tight, we suggest avoiding the in-person option.
Method 3: Online appointment booking
Online appointment scheduling and document submission via government mini-programs are available in some provinces. Documents can be submitted online and collected offline. Please check your local government platform to see if this service is offered, as it is not available in all regions.
III. Frequently Asked Questions and Important Notes for Border Pass Processing
- 1. Border PassApply for FreeThere's no need to pay online agents for border permits—don't get scammed.
- 2. At the checkpoint, you must present both your ID card and border pass simultaneously. Both documents are required.
- 3. Minors must also obtain a border pass, using their household registration book or ID card.
- 4. There are numerous checkpoints along the Pamir Highway where documents may be inspected at any time. Carry your ID with you at all times; do not check it in luggage.
IV. Travel Tips
Most South Xinjiang loop tours include a one- or two-day itinerary on the Pamir Plateau. Before booking, confirm whether the route includes Tashkurgan and obtain your travel permits in advance to avoid being unable to ascend to the plateau upon arrival in Kashgar. For Altay routes that include Baihaba, ensure you prepare border defense permits ahead of time.
View our premium Southern Xinjiang itinerary featuring the Pamir Plateau. EnterSouthern Xinjiang Tour RoutesTo visit the Baihaba Northwest border village, please browseAltay Tourist Routes。
V. Quick Reference: Common Questions About Border Passes
Validity and Fees: Border Permits are issued free of charge, typically valid for 3 months. The permit specifies the border regions you may visit (e.g., Tashkurgan, Habag). Verify your destination is listed before traveling.
Children: Minors must also apply. Bring a household registration book or ID card and apply together with a guardian.
Out-of-area processing: You can apply in advance at your local police station or government service center; some areas support online pre-review. After arriving in Xinjiang, convenient processing is available at government service halls in cities like Kashgar and Altay. Group tours typically have their travel agencies assist with the process.
Border Checkpoints: Border inspection stations are located at entry points to Tashkurgan (towards Baishahu Lake, Karakul Lake, and Khunjerab Pass) and Baihaba Village. You must present your Border Management Permit and ID card. Keep these documents easily accessible during your trip; do not store them at the bottom of your luggage.
