If only it was true. I have A level work permit, I am married with a Chinese for 7 years, kids together, 13 years in China, and last year I got the first 2 year temporary RP. 5 year RP is still out of reach to me - I just don't know what the rules are or what I am doing wrong to get that.

Anyway, I used the echannel with (temporary) RP one year, but haven't reapplied since my kids where born, as I really seldom travel outside of China without them these days.

Colleagues with a one year M have been successful to apply, but as usual in China, it seems to depend on the location. In PVG it was no problem he said, at HK-SZ they told him not possible (2 years ago)

And I would like to add a few questions:

1) If you apply in e.g. PVG, will it work properly at HK-SZ border or PEK airport? Are there any exceptions? In the earlier days there were even problems to enter at SHA, when applied in PVG before.

2) I don't know what it is, but my (German laminated page) passport doesn't seem to work on the entry slip printers, but other countries passport holders had no problems. Is that a format issue, or are there other reasons?

3) The slip is not compulsory. How do you prove, e.g. check-in at hotels, your last entry? In some areas in China, this is still required. (I never really cared, I had enough stamps always.)

4) I made the experience, when you get a new visa, you need to reapply. Is that correct? Any other experiences?