If you're planning a trip to China, be sure to leave plenty of time to get your visa. The Chinese government is increasing the time to process visa applications from five days to 15 days on September 1, according to this article in China Daily. Apparently the immigration folks want more time to verify the information on the application.
The good news in the article is that the Chinese may be lowering the cost of visas for citizens of some countries, including the United States. The visa fee is now $140. I frankly can't see them lowering it that much because the Chinese practice reciprocity -- they charge the same fees for foreign visitors that another country charges Chinese citizens to visit that country.
Other new visa requirements went into effect July 1, though apparently aren't being implemented until September 1.
Update
This article , by a law firm with offices in China and the United States, offers an excellent appraisal of the Chinese visa situation by comparing the old and the new visa regulations.
The main change for tourist visas is dropping the requirement for airline and hotel reservations to be included with the visa application. An itinerary will still be required and reservations may be requested from some applicants.
Are you going to China?
If China is in your travel plans, check out Cheryl's China, my website that is loaded with ideas and tips to help make your trip more enjoyable.
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