Chinese Tourist Visa For Thai- Gf Allowed Only 1 Week!

[Svenn]

My Thai gf just returned from the Chinese Embassy, and apparently was told she can only stay in China 1 week! I can't believe this- I already paid for the plane tickets- there must be a way she can stay longer?? I'm hoping it was just a communication mistake and that when she gets her passport back it will stay 30 days or something

[CWMcMurray]

Better hope no one on the plane looks like they have a cold... otherwise she will spend the entire week in Quaritine.

[Svenn]

guys, i need some serious help here- is 7 days really the maximum allowed for thai citizens or was there some misunderstanding here?

if it really is true- is there any serious harm to overstaying? i mean, it's very unlikely we'll ever go back to mainland china, so i don't care if they give her a penalty or something. it is just so asinine- china is as poor or poorer than thailand, why the hel_l did the embassy tell her she can only stay a week?!

[7by7]

I know nothing about Chinese immigration, and so can only suggest that you contact the Chinese embassy or check the visa itself.

Edited May 13, 2009 by 7by7

[CharlieB]

According to this website you will get a fine, around 1000 yuan, which is just under £100GBP for an overstay of 10+ days. Under 10 days you'll just get your wrist slapped as long as you go into an immigration office. Personally, I would do this, rather than attempt to leave having overstayed. Who knows what they might do if you try to leave without making amends first.

Edited May 13, 2009 by CharlieB

[Svenn]

Thanks Charlie. I hope that website is correct.

[thaihome]

What does the visa say? Does it say she can only stay for a week? The Chinese Embassy website says the normal L visa stay is 30 days.

TH