Originally Posted by
MSPeconomist
This is inaccurate in many ways. The OP should go to the China (destinations) forum here on FT for correct visa information.
First of all, you (assuming OP and SO are USA citizens) can't apply for a Chinese visa by mail. You must either apply in person at a sonculate/embassy or use a vissa service.
Whoops, thanks. Yeah, there are better experts to be found in FlyerTalk's China forum, for sure!
Originally Posted by
MSPeconomist
Secondly, a first time visa applicant is unlikely to get a multi entry visa. It probably doesn't hurt to ask, but multi entry visas tend to be granted to those who have had Chinese visas in the past and didn't cause any trouble, such as an overstay.
Is this really still hard for Americans? I've seen anecdotal reports that the default was multi-entry now.