Get your stamp to the Far East
Get your stamp to the Far EastA few weeks ago we brought you part 1 of the extended FAQ concerning visa application for China PRD region, and this time we are back to bring you for more of the same.
Visa laws and regulations are constantly changing in China and it is our goal to provide our readers with the most up-to-date information possible. We understand the importance of getting everything right first time and ensuring that you all understand the processes involved so you don't get caught in some bureaucratic nightmare!
Join us as we dive a little deeper into the extended FAQ concerning visa application for China PRD (Pearl River Delta) region part 2 below...
Extended FAQ-Visa application for China PRD region
1) I booked a flight that includes a stop over in China. Do I still need to apply for a visa?
Passport holders of 51 countries are entitled to 72-hours visa-free transit via a number of China's airports. Passengers are required to travel with valid documents that include the flight ticket to their end destination and a visa (if required).
2) Is it possible to apply for a visa online?
No, it is not possible to apply for a visa online. The standard procedure for applying for a visa involves the applicant submitting all the necessary documentation to a visa agency/embassy and having them follow through with the application.
3) Can someone apply for a visa on my behalf?
As mentioned above the standard procedure involves an applicant submitting documents and picking up the passport and visa by himself/herself. If special circumstances such as being ill stops you from completing this process by yourself, it is possible to entrust the handling of the visa affairs to someone (as long as you have personally prepared and signed all the necessary documents).
4) My Chinese visa says ENTER BEFORE. What does this mean?
The validity of a visa "ENTER BEFORE" means that you may use the visa to enter into China before the date printed on the visa. Failing to enter China before the date printed on the visa renders it invalid regardless of if there are unused entries.
5) What is the difference between an Invitation Letter of Duly Authorized Unit and a Invitation Letter issued by a company or corporation?
An Invitation Letter of Duly Authorized Unit is a pre-approved document issued by a Chinese Government agency. A Invitation letter is a document that is issued by the inviting company/corporation within mainland China.
6) I want to apply for a Business Visa (M). Do I need both the Invitation Letter of Duly Authorized Unit and a Invitation Letter?
No, it is not necessary. Either one of these documents is acceptable when applying for an M visa
7) Does the Invitation Letter need to be the original copy?
A clear scanned or faxed copy of the Invitation Letter is accepted under most circumstances. This being said the original Invitation Letter and a subsequent interview may be requested by the Consulate.
8) I received my work visa (Z) in my country, but the duration of stay is listed as 000. Is this a mistake or a typo?
It is not a mistake. 000 means that the duration of your stay is yet to be determined. Applicants are required by law to register with their local public security bureau within 30 days of their arrival on the mainland. Once all of your documents are verified at the PSB and an authority has visited your place of work (this is mandatory for most applications) your Z visa will be changed into a Residence Permit. Once this happens the Duration of Stay will state how long you are entitled to stay in China.
9) Do I require a visa to visit the territories of Macau and Hong Kong?
Hong Kong offers non-visa entry to visitors from about 170 countries and regions. Macau offers free entry for a certain period to visitors from 65 countries. Visitors from countries not on the list will have to apply for a visa on arrival. Please note that exiting to visit these territories will count as an exit, so it is important to have a double or multi-entry visa should one wish to return to the mainland.
10) Is it possible to apply for a visa on arrival to Shenzhen/Zhuhai?
These 2 ports are referred to as Special Economic Zones and it is possible to be issued a special economic zone visa at these entry ports. Shenzhen issues 5 days Single-Entry visa at the port of entry. Zhuhai issues 3 days Single-Entry at the port of entry.
That's it for the second part of this ongoing blog series. Hongda will continue to publish new information as laws and regulations are updated and new policies are implemented!
> PS. Don't forget to read part 1 of this visa application for China blog! <
