i am a south african teaching in korea. my arc card runs from feb 2010 to feb 2011.

Question

I am a South African teaching in Korea.  My ARC card runs from feb 2010 to feb 2011.  We want to go to China for the Chinese New Year.  I am a bit confused about this 6 month ARC regulation.  Should it be valid for six months after you return from China or 6 months in total.  As I understand it I am eligible for a visa because my ARC is valid for 12 months.  Am I right?

Ms.ELLIOTT · Answer

You misunderstand the 6 months ARC regulation, the embassy asks your ARC card has at least 6 months remaining validity when you apply for China visa. I know that this rule is not reasonable, however, we can't bargain with the embassy. You can first contact a travel agency designated by the embassy to enquire you whether you can get a visa or not. I know that China consulate in Busan doesn't require applicants to provide ARC card with 6 months remaining validity. You can contact a travel agency designated by the consulate in Busan to apply visa for you.

Mr.C · Answer

I just received my Chinese visa.  I used New World travel in Busan and two Visas cost 103 000 Won.  Also I have only two months left on my ARC.

Ms.Jenna · Answer

Dear Mr C,Please help! I have just got a call from the travel agency I was using informing me that I can't get a visa cos I don't have the 6 months. I am flying into China on the 10th Jan. I am also from South Africa, please can you help me! Please can you send me the information of the agent you used?Thanks so much,Jenna

Mr.C · Answer

Did you use an approved agency from Busan?  The consulate in Busan does not apply the six months rule yet.  The one in Seoul does.  The list for the approved agency's in Busan are on this site.  All you do is mail them your passport, but let someone phone them first (Korean friend).  Good Luck

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