Wondering if anyone can shed some light on this ...

My concern with visa agencies here in Shanghai is that they might issue fake visas. There are several warnings on embassy websites regarding this and this got me worried.

Also, I heard that the processed visas are always from small towns outside Shanghai.

How can one tell/ verify if a F-visa is genuine or fake? (since they are supposedly processed far from Shanghai) Any pointers would be much appreciated.

Visa agencies would be a great help if the visas are real!

you get what you pay for. go with a respected agency with a history; you will find recommendations in this forum.

there are agencies that issue authentic visas outside of shanghai, but those visas aren't always legal for people residing in shanghai.

i've not heard of anyone receiving a fake visa, but that doesn't mean the practice isn't on the rise. would make sense... the person would be caught upon exiting and they can't very well admit to going through illegal channels to obtain it... the perfect crime!

I have not heard of much either but just rumors of it happening. Like Magnolia said it would only be upon exiting that you would know the truth.