This is all too confusing. I'd be so grateful for any answers to the following queries:

- I have just been issued with an F visa which expires mid December, before, my planned trip home in early January. If I do nothing, stay in the country for three weeks after the expiry of my visa, and then try to leave - what happens? Anything?

- I understand that I can have my visa renewed before its expiry and have been told that the best place to do this is Hong Kong. Why is this? Why can't I just renew it here? Is there an advantage to going to HK to have it renewed?

- does anyone know the requirements for obtaining a permanent business visa? And, are there any advantages to having one?

Thanks,

W

Do not overstay your visa. This is a big no-no. Fines, hassles, it will all happen. Extend, extend, extend!!!

Are you a US passport holder? If yes, then you will have to go to HK to renew your visa ... I think. There are some unique requirements for US passport holders due to the US biometric rules. However, I also know some European passport holders who also have to exit to HK or Japan to be issued new visas (I think the difference is that they are able to stay in China for longer periods of time for each extention).

I have always had my visas renewed here ... but the office does it for me (X visa) ... however, most F visa holders I know have had to leave China for renewal.

Advantages to a Z visa ... usually good for one year, multiple entry.

Requirements - offer letter from local company, obtain a work permit, obtain a residence permit, have a health screen, get the visa. Takes a few weeks from start to finish.

What are the current requirements for the HK "F" Visa, for Americans? What paperwork do I need? Do I need the health test or letters, etc?