Job Discussion Forums

[flyingscotsman]

I looked around but didn't find much suitable info so I'll try a new thread.

My school is sending me to HK to secure a Z visa.

They have not told me if I will stay the night or what.

Can someone enlighten me as to how long its takes to get a Z visa assuming I make it there in the am at about 8:30 or 9. I mean what time to pick it up for same day service?

What about problems. Has anyone ever been told they would not be issued a Z visa when they went there?

I looked at this site but didn't get much info.

http://www.fmcoprc.gov.hk/eng/zgqz/blsjfy/


Currency: Hong Kong Dollars

Individual Visa

Single visa


HK$150

Double visa


HK$220

Multiple (6 months)


HK$400

Multiple (12/24/36 months)


HK$600

Visa Transference


HK$100

Additional Charge for Expedited Service (Individual Visa)

Express Service


HK$150 /person

Rush Service


HK$250 /person

[7969]

the last time I was in HK for a Z visa was 3-4 years ago and at that time they offered same day service if you arrived and had your application in before 9am (they opened at 8am). one point: arrive earlier, the lineup usually starts forming outside the building entrance around 7 and if you arrive at 8 there might already be 50 or more people in front of you. the first time I was there it wasn't easy to find that office either, the entrance is at the side of the building and isn't (or wasnt) clearly marked and you need to take the elevator up to the 7th floor to the visa office. anyway, after you finish applying you could return after lunch and pick up your passport and Z visa. But earlier this year someone made a post on here that the same day service no longer existed and that next day was the best you could do. but i reckon that one night in HK wont break the bank and you might as well enjoy a night there to get a break from the mainland.

If you have the proper paperwork for the visa I can't imagine you being refused a visa. Never heard of it happening anyway. What is it that causes you to worry about this if I may ask?

[Mister Al]

I haven't been for while either but what 7969 says is correct I think. I would add get there around 6am-6-30am and wait by the small door on the corner of the street. The queues can start very early. Bring a book. If you are on your own keep your eyes peeled for any other queues forming as you might be at the wrong door. Also make sure your Invitation Letter from your employer states that you are to apply for the Z visa in Hong Kong. You will have to stay at least one night unless you live in Shenzhen or Guangzhou etc and even then you would be pushed to get there early enough to get in the queue and be on time to get the same day service for the extra HKD250. If it was me I'd try to wangle two nights stay and enjoy HK.

[dean_a_jones]

FYI

Just over a year ago when I was there, I am pretty sure they no longer offered same day service. It was 24 hours instead, collect the next day.

Anyone been more recently than that?

In terms of problems, check your docs carefully, get someone (other than the person who issued them) to check the Chinese ones if you can't read it. I was given one in Chinese which had the wrong passport number on it, but I didn't realise until I was at the counter. Had to get a new one sent (they wont accept fax/email etc) so it took an extra couple days. Not complaining as got a slightly longer holiday and a few days to see HK, but obviously not ideal.

[problembears]

I did the visa run last month. The previous posters are correct, they do not offer same-day service any more. The quickest is 24hrs. They are closed from 12-2 pm for lunch. If you drop off your application in the morning, you can pick it up in the morning. But if you drop it off in the afternoon, you need to pick it up the following afternoon.

Enjoy Hong Kong, I thought it was a beautiful place!

[LanGuTou]

You can get same day visa service through agents such as China Travel Service (CTS) but it is not cheap. Probably cheaper than staying an extra night in HK though!