Thursday, October 30, 2008

China Visa

We have all heard about the complex and convoluted process of obtaining a work visa since the extra hoops had been put in place due to the olympics. Some of it sounded a bit cryptic but we were all fairly certain that we'd find the guidance we needed via our new employers. What is interesting is that not all employers are equal in this regard. Of the 5 of us, 2 of us will have to return to our home countries in order to apply for the work visa. Why this is the case is perhaps for another post. But the reality is that 2 of us will have to head home to complete this application requirement. The employers can't be thrilled about this, as it causes delays in their new hire start times, and also added expenses due to flights, etc. For me, I am planning to make the most of my trip home to the States. The upside is the obvious, seeing friends and family, but also a chance to buy stuff that I can't get easily here in Shangahi... coffee, certain herbs and spices, and my shoe size!

The process apparently takes about 30 days, and upon submitting a few final pieces of paperwork to the employer, they will submit the visa application! It looks like I'll probably be back in the States for the first week of December or so. Mostly up near DC and PA, and if time permits, possibly a quick visit to NC.

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