Knowing what to take and what to leave is all well and good, but what about getting into China to begin with? Well, the first step for everyone will be to determine if the company or school you are going to work for will be applying for the L and Z visas on your behalf or if you will have to do part or all of it yourself. Most schools and companies will only assist with obtaining the Working or Z visa once you are in country. If they do not, you should take good hard look at the company and determine if you want to risk being in the country illegally (DEFINITELY NOT RECOMMENDED) after your tourist visa expires or try to apply for it yourself. You can apply for a Working (Z) visa on your own through the local consulate if you provide proof of gainful employment (a letter of a job offer suffices) but it can be expensive.
Obtaining the Z visa after you are in country is great, however it does not help you to get into the country since you can not enter without a visa. The solution to this problem is a simple one.
If you employer does not assist with the entire visa process, you will have to apply for a temporary tourist visa on your own. The L Visa will be sufficient to get you into the country for a short period of time. There are several avenues available to the China-bound traveller:
1. Apply in person at the Chinese consulate or embassy. This is great if you live in a city where an embassy or consulate exists.
2. For those living in the US who do not live near a Chinese consulate or embassy, another option is to employ the services of a visa service agency. This costs more, but is more convenient. The only drawback is that you must send your passport and a copy of secondary ID via regular post. Your papers will usually be processed within 4 business days of receipt and typically you will have everything back in your hands after a couple of weeks.
3. If you don't live near an embassy or consulate, but you know someone who does, you can have that person act as a proxy and apply for you in person using your information.
What you will need:
1. A valid passport that will NOT expire within the year. If it does expire within 1 year of your application, you will in all liklihood be rejected. For information on how to renew your visa, please consult your country's embassy.
NOTE: Your passport must also have room for BOTH the tourist visa AND the Z visa in the visa section. Otherwise you will have to add pages to your passport while in China and that can be a pain.
NOTE 2: PLEASE send your visa via a secure, traceable mail service or courrier such as UPS, FedEx or Certified Mail (Certified Mail takes 7-10 business days so take that into account) if you use a visa service company.
2. A 2"x2" head and shoulders photograph of yourself on a plain white background.
3. A photocopy of a secondary form of ID such as a driver's license or state-issued ID card.
4. 2 copies (1 original and 1 copy) of your visa application form.
5. Money to pay for the consular and visa processing fees.
Visa Application Form:
The form can be downloaded using Adobe Acrobat here:
http://china.travisa.com/ApplicationSelector.aspx?CountryID=CN&PartnerID=TA
You will need to complete the entire form. Leave no section blank. Print legibly (most visa services will require you to use all CAPS). As this is a generic form, there will be sections which do not apply to you. Simply enter N/A into these sections.
If someone else is going to be the one delivering the paperwork to the consulate or embassy, make sure to give them power of attourney in section 7 of the application form. Failure to do so will result in your application being rejected.
In the duration of stay section on the form, enter 30 days. This is the default number of days that will be approved. Don't worry, if you are going to be obtaining a Z visa when you arrive that visa will supercede the L visa.
How soon to apply?
It is recommended that you allow about 6-8 weeks for processing and approval. A single entry tourist visa (which is all you will need if going directly to the mainland of China) will be good for 3 months from the date of application. On the application form, you will have to indicate an "earliest date of arrival" this should be the date you EXPECT to arrive in-country (ie the date on your plane ticket), however you can enter the country at any time diring the active period of the visa.
NOTE: In the event your visa is delayed, you may want to wait to purchase a ticket until after you have the visa in-hand. This may cost more, but it will avoid any re-scheduling fees from the airlines. This is problem I had last time I went to China as my visa was delayed.
If you wait too long to apply, your paperwork may not be complete in time and you will be forced to postpone our trip. If you apply too early, your visa may expire before you can use it.
Single, Double, or Multiple Entry?
This depends on where you will be working and what your travel plans will be. If you are flying from the US to Hong Kong and then on to the mainland, you will need a double entry visa; one entry for Hong Kong and one for the mainland. If you plan on going from Europe to Beijing and then on to Hong Kong you will also need a double entry visa.
If you are going to be traveling in and out of the mainland frequently, you should apply for a Multiple Entry Visa.
Visa Application Service Companies:
*DISCLAIMER: This is no way an endorsement of the companies listed below. They are also only valid for the US. Use at own risk.
Visa Express
Travisa
TravelVisaPro
The Chinese embassy visa page is located here.
Friday, June 15, 2012
Monday, June 11, 2012
What to take to China
For anyone who will soon be traveling to the Chinese mainland, especially if you are from the US or Europe, there are some things you will have to do before you leave; including deciding what to take with you and what to leave. As I have been through this before, I now have a much better understanding of what I will need and use during the next 12 months than I did the first time I went to China. Here is a list of what I recommend:
In the suit case:
1. 3 or 4 pairs of Work attire pants/slacks that DON'T require dry cleaning.
2. 7 or 8 work shirts to go with the slacks. Remember, if the slacks are neutral colored (black, brown, tan, khaki, etc.) the shirts can be any color.
3. 2 pairs of "summer" work shoes that are comfortable and will go with your work outfits. Don't forget the shoe polish if your shoes require it.
4. 2 pairs of "winter" work shoes that will survive rain and/or snow.
5. 3 lounging/casual outfits to wear around the house or on weekends.--including running or tennis shoes.
6. 1 package each (unopened) of underwear and socks/stockings. Chinese washing machines can be hell on your under clothes and hosiery and most stores will not have Western sizes.
7. (For women only) any items you require for certain times of the month. I bring enough to last 2 or 3 months.
8. At least 2 sticks of deodorant. Many people in China don't use deodorant and the deodorant they do have can really irritate the skin. I recommend bringing your own.
9. 4 tubes of toothpaste and 1 bottle of mouthwash (if you use it). Chinese toothpaste brands are highly corrosive (many contian crushed pearls which can wear away tooth enamel) and can cause damage to your tooth enamel and foreign brands can be expensive and are usually limited to Crest or Aquafresh. Bring your own or have it sent to you. The mouthwash you can get in China, but you may have to find a different brand than you are accustomed to.
10. 1 bottle of shampoo (and conditioner if you use it). Until you are able to find a Chinese brand you like, this will tide you over. Many Chinese shampoos can make your hair quite oily due to the difference in hair textures.
11. Any over-the-counter medications you require such as cough medicine/drops, acetaminophen/aspirin/ibuprofen, allergy medication, or digestive aids. These items generally require a doctor/pharmacist recommendation to obtain in China.
12. An emergency kit of antibiotic/antiseptic cream, bandages/plasters of various sizes, burn cream, gauze, etc. These things are available in China, but you may have to go to a pharmacy and be seen by a pharmacist.
13. Hair dryer/straightener and any styling products you use as they will be generally hard to find in China and the products will probably make your Western hair greasy.
14. Outlet converter if you come from a country with a different power grid configuration than China uses (220 Volt is the Chinese standard). Most new buildings in China will have compound outlets that will take any plug style, but older buildings may still use the old style outlets.
In the carry-on:
1. 1 change of clothes with travel deodorant/perfume, and travel toothbrush. Just in case you get stuck at the airport.
2. Travel size first aid kit with pain killers, bandages/plasters and anti-nausea medications if you need them.
3. Laptop with extra battery if possible. If you come from a country that uses a different voltage (220 Volts is the Chinese standard) than China uses, you will find that your battery will wear down after a bit even if you use a converter.
4. ENTERTAINMENT (tablet, DVD player and DVDs, books, etc.) for the flight.
5. Small travel pillow and blanket. Airlines usually have these too, but I personally don't like using something that someone else may have slept in.
6. If you are bringing a cell phone, bring the charger.
On Your Person:
( I use a small money belt to carry these items)
1. Passport and visa.
2. Any additional IDs or credit cards.
3. Contact information of your destination.
3. Currency. You will need to use some of it at the airport and you should also have enough on you to rent a hotel room in the event of an emergency.
That is what I will be packing along this time around. Last time I ended up taking some things I didn't use and leaving things that I later needed to have sent to me. These items will take up about one and a half large suit cases and one small carry on bag. That leaves room for the gifts on the return trip...
In the suit case:
1. 3 or 4 pairs of Work attire pants/slacks that DON'T require dry cleaning.
2. 7 or 8 work shirts to go with the slacks. Remember, if the slacks are neutral colored (black, brown, tan, khaki, etc.) the shirts can be any color.
3. 2 pairs of "summer" work shoes that are comfortable and will go with your work outfits. Don't forget the shoe polish if your shoes require it.
4. 2 pairs of "winter" work shoes that will survive rain and/or snow.
5. 3 lounging/casual outfits to wear around the house or on weekends.--including running or tennis shoes.
6. 1 package each (unopened) of underwear and socks/stockings. Chinese washing machines can be hell on your under clothes and hosiery and most stores will not have Western sizes.
7. (For women only) any items you require for certain times of the month. I bring enough to last 2 or 3 months.
8. At least 2 sticks of deodorant. Many people in China don't use deodorant and the deodorant they do have can really irritate the skin. I recommend bringing your own.
9. 4 tubes of toothpaste and 1 bottle of mouthwash (if you use it). Chinese toothpaste brands are highly corrosive (many contian crushed pearls which can wear away tooth enamel) and can cause damage to your tooth enamel and foreign brands can be expensive and are usually limited to Crest or Aquafresh. Bring your own or have it sent to you. The mouthwash you can get in China, but you may have to find a different brand than you are accustomed to.
10. 1 bottle of shampoo (and conditioner if you use it). Until you are able to find a Chinese brand you like, this will tide you over. Many Chinese shampoos can make your hair quite oily due to the difference in hair textures.
11. Any over-the-counter medications you require such as cough medicine/drops, acetaminophen/aspirin/ibuprofen, allergy medication, or digestive aids. These items generally require a doctor/pharmacist recommendation to obtain in China.
12. An emergency kit of antibiotic/antiseptic cream, bandages/plasters of various sizes, burn cream, gauze, etc. These things are available in China, but you may have to go to a pharmacy and be seen by a pharmacist.
13. Hair dryer/straightener and any styling products you use as they will be generally hard to find in China and the products will probably make your Western hair greasy.
14. Outlet converter if you come from a country with a different power grid configuration than China uses (220 Volt is the Chinese standard). Most new buildings in China will have compound outlets that will take any plug style, but older buildings may still use the old style outlets.
In the carry-on:
1. 1 change of clothes with travel deodorant/perfume, and travel toothbrush. Just in case you get stuck at the airport.
2. Travel size first aid kit with pain killers, bandages/plasters and anti-nausea medications if you need them.
3. Laptop with extra battery if possible. If you come from a country that uses a different voltage (220 Volts is the Chinese standard) than China uses, you will find that your battery will wear down after a bit even if you use a converter.
4. ENTERTAINMENT (tablet, DVD player and DVDs, books, etc.) for the flight.
5. Small travel pillow and blanket. Airlines usually have these too, but I personally don't like using something that someone else may have slept in.
6. If you are bringing a cell phone, bring the charger.
On Your Person:
( I use a small money belt to carry these items)
1. Passport and visa.
2. Any additional IDs or credit cards.
3. Contact information of your destination.
3. Currency. You will need to use some of it at the airport and you should also have enough on you to rent a hotel room in the event of an emergency.
That is what I will be packing along this time around. Last time I ended up taking some things I didn't use and leaving things that I later needed to have sent to me. These items will take up about one and a half large suit cases and one small carry on bag. That leaves room for the gifts on the return trip...
I'm Back!
Hello to everyone out there who might actually be reading this blog. I have been absent from writing this blog for almost 2 years now due to the fact that I left China at the end of my last contract and have been busy working in US. However, that situation is about to change again as I will be headed back to Wenzhou in August to teach at one of the language schools int he city.I will make every attempt to blog regularly about both my pre-trip preparations and about life in China when I get back.
Now where did I put my passport?
Now where did I put my passport?
Wednesday, July 7, 2010
Summer Travel 4
Harbin, Heilongjiang Province
More popularly known for its winter-time International Ice and Snow Sculpture Festival, Harbin can be an interesting place to visit in the summer; especially for those who don't particularly like the heat of central and southern China. The temperature in July and August averages about 80 degrees Fahrenheit or 27 Celsius and is mostly dry and sunny; boasting just 3-4 inches of rain per month.
This region of China is rather unique for its interesting mix of cultures and customs. Located as it is along the borders of Russia, Mongolia, and Korea, there are many ethnic minorities to be seen here and many tours will focus on the distinct differences between them. This mixing of cultures can also be seen in the architecture of the buildings in the city.
Travel Time:
36 hours by high speed train D5572 from Wenzhou with connections in Hangzhou and Beijing.
What do do in the city:
Look at the architecture (free)--mix of traditional Chinese, Korean, Mongolian, and Russian styles can be seen in buildings like the St. Sophia Church.
Jin Dynasty Culture Tour (prices vary)--this is a guided tour of the various ethnic minorities and folk customs of this part of China.
Fangzhen Lotus Lake Park (10 RMB)--located in a churchyard
Grape Garden (15 RMB)--located at the Gardening Branch of the Provincial Agricultural Academy. Includes a winery and wine tasting during the summer months.
Confucian Temple (15 RMB)--located in the city of Harbin and dedicated to Confucian teachings.
Other places to go:
Heilongjiang Provincial Museum (50 RMB)
Jinhe Tourist Park (10 RMB)
National Forest Park (10 RMB)
Outside the city:
Sun Island (30-50 RMB depending on season)--resort located north of the city on the Songhua River. includes the Siberian Tiger Park, Sun Lake, and Lotus pond.
Qingfeng Manor and Harbin Forest (20 RMB)--located in Xinglong Town just outside the city. Beautiful views of the Harbin forest and surrounding landscape.
Places to stay:
Jinjiang Inn (99.50 RMB for a double bed)--Hostel located at No.60 Diduan Rd, Daoli District,Harbin
Kazy International Youth Hostel (40 RMB for a dormitory; 60 RMB for a private room)--No. 82,Tongjiang Street, 150018, Harbin
Gfour Holiday Hotel (210 RMB/bed)--No. 27, Xi Er Dao Street, Dao Li District, 150010, Harbin
For more Hostel options check out
http://www.hostelworld.com/findabed.php/ChosenCity.Harbin/ChosenCountry.China/OrderBy.price
More popularly known for its winter-time International Ice and Snow Sculpture Festival, Harbin can be an interesting place to visit in the summer; especially for those who don't particularly like the heat of central and southern China. The temperature in July and August averages about 80 degrees Fahrenheit or 27 Celsius and is mostly dry and sunny; boasting just 3-4 inches of rain per month.
This region of China is rather unique for its interesting mix of cultures and customs. Located as it is along the borders of Russia, Mongolia, and Korea, there are many ethnic minorities to be seen here and many tours will focus on the distinct differences between them. This mixing of cultures can also be seen in the architecture of the buildings in the city.
Travel Time:
36 hours by high speed train D5572 from Wenzhou with connections in Hangzhou and Beijing.
What do do in the city:
Look at the architecture (free)--mix of traditional Chinese, Korean, Mongolian, and Russian styles can be seen in buildings like the St. Sophia Church.
Jin Dynasty Culture Tour (prices vary)--this is a guided tour of the various ethnic minorities and folk customs of this part of China.
Fangzhen Lotus Lake Park (10 RMB)--located in a churchyard
Grape Garden (15 RMB)--located at the Gardening Branch of the Provincial Agricultural Academy. Includes a winery and wine tasting during the summer months.
Confucian Temple (15 RMB)--located in the city of Harbin and dedicated to Confucian teachings.
Other places to go:
Heilongjiang Provincial Museum (50 RMB)
Jinhe Tourist Park (10 RMB)
National Forest Park (10 RMB)
Outside the city:
Sun Island (30-50 RMB depending on season)--resort located north of the city on the Songhua River. includes the Siberian Tiger Park, Sun Lake, and Lotus pond.
Qingfeng Manor and Harbin Forest (20 RMB)--located in Xinglong Town just outside the city. Beautiful views of the Harbin forest and surrounding landscape.
Places to stay:
Jinjiang Inn (99.50 RMB for a double bed)--Hostel located at No.60 Diduan Rd, Daoli District,Harbin
Kazy International Youth Hostel (40 RMB for a dormitory; 60 RMB for a private room)--No. 82,Tongjiang Street, 150018, Harbin
Gfour Holiday Hotel (210 RMB/bed)--No. 27, Xi Er Dao Street, Dao Li District, 150010, Harbin
For more Hostel options check out
http://www.hostelworld.com/findabed.php/ChosenCity.Harbin/ChosenCountry.China/OrderBy.price
Wednesday, June 9, 2010
Summer Travel 3
Ningbo
This is an ancient city. In fact, it is one of the oldest cities in China. Due to its location on the Yangtze River delta, Ningbo has a rich and vibrant culture as a trade city.
Travel time: 1hr 30min by high-speed train D3102 from Wenzhou.
Things to do in the city:
Dongqian Lake (park, free)
West Lake (park, free)
Tai Lake (park, free)
Tianfeng Pagoda (Song Dynasty reconstructed pagoda, 5 RMB)
Tianyi Pavilion (Fan family library, 20 RMB)
Things to do outside the city:
Baoguo temple and Tang Dynasty pillars(Buddhist temple complex, 12 RMB)--located 15 km east of the city on Lingshan Mtn.
Yandang Mtn. (UNESCO world geopark and 8 famous scenic areas, 10-30 RMB depending on location)--Located outside Wenzhou in Leching county about 4 hours from Ningbo.
Other things to do:
Check out the traditional handicrafts produced in this city; many of which can be found on the main shopping streets. These crafts include hand-woven bamboo vases, wood and bamboo carvings and various animal sculptures. Also, due to its location on the Yangtze River delta, this city has always been--and continues to be--a thriving import city with lots of shopping opportunities.
This is an ancient city. In fact, it is one of the oldest cities in China. Due to its location on the Yangtze River delta, Ningbo has a rich and vibrant culture as a trade city.
Travel time: 1hr 30min by high-speed train D3102 from Wenzhou.
Things to do in the city:
Dongqian Lake (park, free)
West Lake (park, free)
Tai Lake (park, free)
Tianfeng Pagoda (Song Dynasty reconstructed pagoda, 5 RMB)
Tianyi Pavilion (Fan family library, 20 RMB)
Things to do outside the city:
Baoguo temple and Tang Dynasty pillars(Buddhist temple complex, 12 RMB)--located 15 km east of the city on Lingshan Mtn.
Yandang Mtn. (UNESCO world geopark and 8 famous scenic areas, 10-30 RMB depending on location)--Located outside Wenzhou in Leching county about 4 hours from Ningbo.
Other things to do:
Check out the traditional handicrafts produced in this city; many of which can be found on the main shopping streets. These crafts include hand-woven bamboo vases, wood and bamboo carvings and various animal sculptures. Also, due to its location on the Yangtze River delta, this city has always been--and continues to be--a thriving import city with lots of shopping opportunities.
Summer Travel 2
Hangzhou
For a quick, inexpensive trip to an interesting city, consider Hangzhou.
travel time: 3 hours by high-speed train D3108 out of Wenzhou.
Places to go in the city:
West Lake (park, free)
Mausoleum of General Yue Fei (park and temple complex, 25 RMB)
6 harmonies Pagoda (pagoda and park complex, 30 RMB)
National Silk Museum (museum, free)
Ling Yin Temple (temple and park complex, 30-35 RMB)
Qing He Fang Street (shopping)
Places to go nearby:
National Tea Museum (museum, free)--located just west of West Lake in the incorporated village of Longjing.
Other things to do:
Try the local cuisine. Hangzhou culture has been influenced by many different groups over the centuries. The local specialties are braised pork and "beggars chicken," both of which are quite good if done properly. There is also a vibrant night life in this city and sunset marks the beginning of business hours for many pubs and bars as well as tea houses. Each one is unique and those around West Lake are rather nice to visit on hot summer days.
For a quick, inexpensive trip to an interesting city, consider Hangzhou.
travel time: 3 hours by high-speed train D3108 out of Wenzhou.
Places to go in the city:
West Lake (park, free)
Mausoleum of General Yue Fei (park and temple complex, 25 RMB)
6 harmonies Pagoda (pagoda and park complex, 30 RMB)
National Silk Museum (museum, free)
Ling Yin Temple (temple and park complex, 30-35 RMB)
Qing He Fang Street (shopping)
Places to go nearby:
National Tea Museum (museum, free)--located just west of West Lake in the incorporated village of Longjing.
Other things to do:
Try the local cuisine. Hangzhou culture has been influenced by many different groups over the centuries. The local specialties are braised pork and "beggars chicken," both of which are quite good if done properly. There is also a vibrant night life in this city and sunset marks the beginning of business hours for many pubs and bars as well as tea houses. Each one is unique and those around West Lake are rather nice to visit on hot summer days.
Friday, May 28, 2010
Summer travel
So summer is upon us and many foreigners in China are wondering, "what do I do now?" Here I have decided to post some recommendations for those who are living in various regions and may want to travel around China for a bit this summer before returning home. This is the first installment. In each posting, I will focus on one or two cities or regions. I have divided the categories by region, distance, and commuting options.
I'll start with Central China since that is where I am. These travel times are calculated from Wenzhou in Zhejiang Province.
Nearby:
For those who may not want to travel too much this summer, but still want to get out of the city there are several options.
1. Travel to Fujian Province
--2-3 hours by high speed train
*Places to go in the city:
--West Lake (park and traditional house with garden)--free
--Hualin Monastery (monastery, Hualin Lu, open for tours)--3RMB
--Pingshan Park (park, monkey park, Fufei S. Road)--free
--Yu Hill (pagoda, opera performances, Daoist temple)--free
--Gu Shan and Xi Chan Monastery grounds (monastery, vegetarian restaurant and shopping)--20RMB
*Places to go outside the city:
--Qingyun Shan Waterfall Park (park, scenic area, hiking)
--Qingyun Mtn. Royal Hot Spring Hotel (hotel, hot springs, mineral baths)--1200+ RMB/night
For more information about Qingyun Shan travel, visit http://www.tripadvisor.com/Travel-g297405-d1440226/Fuzhou:China:Qingyun.Mountain.html
I'll start with Central China since that is where I am. These travel times are calculated from Wenzhou in Zhejiang Province.
Nearby:
For those who may not want to travel too much this summer, but still want to get out of the city there are several options.
1. Travel to Fujian Province
--2-3 hours by high speed train
*Places to go in the city:
--West Lake (park and traditional house with garden)--free
--Hualin Monastery (monastery, Hualin Lu, open for tours)--3RMB
--Pingshan Park (park, monkey park, Fufei S. Road)--free
--Yu Hill (pagoda, opera performances, Daoist temple)--free
--Gu Shan and Xi Chan Monastery grounds (monastery, vegetarian restaurant and shopping)--20RMB
*Places to go outside the city:
--Qingyun Shan Waterfall Park (park, scenic area, hiking)
--Qingyun Mtn. Royal Hot Spring Hotel (hotel, hot springs, mineral baths)--1200+ RMB/night
For more information about Qingyun Shan travel, visit http://www.tripadvisor.com/Travel-g297405-d1440226/Fuzhou:China:Qingyun.Mountain.html
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