Why get L when you can get X?

[sndchang]

I just got my acceptance letter from Yunnan University. On my acceptance letter it says to get an L visa and when I get to the University they will help me get a residence permit. Is there any reason that they would advise me to do this? Why not just apply for an X? Even when calling the university they told me that its best to just get and L and that they will help me get an X.

Furthermore, if I did apply for an L wouldn't I have to show a return flight? I don't have a return flight because I plan to be in China for a year. Hopefully this is not also a requirement for the X visa.

If anyone could tell me the advantage of obtaining an L and having the university changing it to an X over just getting an X in the states, I would really appreciate it!

[self-taught-mba]

Because after getting burnt by fraud many times some unis have started doing this.

Seriously.

[Senzhi]

Because after getting burnt by fraud many times some unis have started doing this.

Works in both ways. Theoretically, an X or Z visa can now only be obtained in country of residence (= outside China). Also theoretically, L visas cannot be changed into a residence permit (since it's a tourist visa).

Although, that's only theory ... and theory gets proven in China to be just that: only theory.

Furthermore, if I did apply for an L wouldn't I have to show a return flight? I don't have a return flight because I plan to be in China for a year.

Yes, and in addition, you'll have to keep in mind that this year, due to some major event, L visas are only issued for one month. I doubt that, though not impossible, your uni can guarantee you that they'll be that quick in providing you with a residence permit.

Your uni is indeed protecting themselves, by increasing the risk on your side. Try to show some understanding, but at the same time try to negotiate a 50/50 risk deal. Explain the volatile visa situation this year.

[sndchang]

This might be a naive question, but what kind of fraud?

[Senzhi]

This might be a naive question, but what kind of fraud?

Some people use an X visa as an excuse to obtain a residence permit for other reasons than studying. A respectful educational institution will likely not be happy with such a situation.

[mr.stinky]

i think this saves them the trouble of doing any work or incurring any expenses before

you arrive, as there should be no jw-202 (does the uni have to buy these forms from

the gov'mint) for a tourist visa. it also saves them the hassle of holding a spot in an

already overcrowded class, and the headache of not responding to your emails.

[ajax]

Friend just applied to Yunnan Normal this past month. They suggested the L visa, but after he explained the round-trip ticket and hotel requirements, they relented and agreed to send a jw-202. From the people in the office, I got the impression that it is a hassle for them and has to go to numerous offices for approval. Also, they sent it DHL to the US. Since they hadn't taken any money at this point, I can understand the reluctance.

Oddly, the consulate in the US (Houston) didn't give him an X. He got a 6 month single entry F visa.

I doubt it would be a problem to come on an L, but then I probably wouldn't want to risk it right now.

[roddy]

Actually if it saves you wiring an application fee which at least some other unis ask you to do, it probably works out easier for the student. You could also get your visa when you wanted rather than having to wait for the JW-202.

Course, now that tourist visas themselves are more hassle, things might not balance out the same. Good to see that they aren't refusing point blank to send out the proper forms though.

does the uni have to buy these forms from the gov'mint

Pretty sure it does, they're officially numbered and they'll keep track of where they all go. Doubt the government does that for free.

[imron]

Oddly, the consulate in the US (Houston) didn't give him an X. He got a 6 month single entry F visa.

Depending on the length of time he's planning to study, that's not so odd. X visas are usually given out for periods of study that are 1 year or longer. If he's going to be studying for less than that, then an F visa is usually issued.

[studymandrn]

I have been told by a private school that they can get my L visa extended before my 30 days is up, is this true given the current conditions?

One last question, if I have already submitted an application to a government university but I do not get the JW202 before I leave and I have to go as an L visa, when I get there can I go to the Uni and get the JW202 and apply for longer or will it not work once I am there?

[adrianlondon]

I thought you had to show booked flights and accommodation for L visas? If so, then you're going to be in a mess when you try to persuade them that the Uni is accommodating you, and that the flight you have booked for 2009 really doesn't mean you plan on hiding and overstaying your L visa's validity.

[sndchang]

Actually, I received a copy of the Jw-202 via email. Will this suffice to obtain the X with my one way ticket, passport and offer of admission?

Also, the school won't turn me away or something if I show up with an X rather than an L like they requested, right? Didn't think it was a huge deal, but I had to ask.