Job Discussion Forums

[thomthom]

I've accepted a position with a large academy, seemingly with quite a good reputation, who have have suggested that I come to China immediately on a tourist visa, spend a week or two getting settled-in and observing lessons, and then do a visa-run to Hong Kong. Considering that I am itching to leave and that I've always wanted to visit HK, I am quite optimistic about doing this.

The question is whether or not it is still feasible, given that that visa regulations in China are changing all the time. When I casually spoke to another recruiter about this they said it has become more difficult to do. Has anyone done it successfully - and recently?

Secondary question: if it is indeed possible, how long does it take to process the visa in Hong Kong? Are we talking 10 days or 2 months?

Thanks

[The_Kong]

[kungfuman]

^ I don't agree with the above poster. life is full of risks and coming to China for any reason is risky so you might as well go with your gut feeling of coming to China and make the best of it while understanding that you need a contingency plan in case things go wrong.

Do some research on your perspective employer and see if they have any published bad marks or horror stories.

Also understand that they may make you pay for your HK trip and visa. This could cost $500 or more for travel hotel and visa AND often you don't get much time - arrive a monday am and go to the hotel then visa office and pick it up the next am and head back to the airport.

I can tell you I have made two visa runs to HK and I consider myself lucky - all expenses including food were paid for by the school.

A dude I know just had to do one and the school paid ZERO. He had to shell out about $400 for 2 days for flights and a hotel as he doesn't have a real visa - just a tourist visa and has to leave every 60 days and his current school ( my part time job) did NOT get him a z visa or RP as promised.

I believe that if we always take the safe path in life then most of us should never leave the comfort of our home.

So make a wise choice and be prepared just in case

[kungfuman]

ps my current school sends new teachers to HK who arrive on a tourist visa and they pay everything. This is as of Sept 2014