Hi,

I'm a UK citizen planning to visit China for about 6 months from the end of May. Can someone please confirm whether my plan has a chance of success? I don't need great detail, just an idea of whether it's feasible, visa-wise.

I don't have business/study affiliations in China, so not eligible for a business, working or student visa - I have to get a tourist visa. I'll be able to stay in China for up to 30 days on this. Before it expires, I can apply for an extension of 30 days… and then another 30 day extension. 2 extensions is the max. Is this correct and are extensions fairly easy to get in most cities?

At the end of my 3x30 day Chinese visas, I want to go to Vietnam/Laos/Cambodia for ~4 weeks. Am I likely to experience any problems applying for visas for these countries while in China? I'd most likely apply in Kunming. I'll travel overland from China, rather than fly.

After that, I want to return to China. Is it easy to apply for a Chinese tourist visa from Vietnam/Laos/Cambodia? And then extend my tourist visa twice while I'm in China? I don’t know whether my previous stay will sway things in my favour or whether it will be viewed as negative.

I don't see any benefit in applying for a double entry visa. Single entry visas, with 2 extensions for each visit seems best for me. Is that correct or have I misunderstood?!

I’m an experienced independent tourist. I've visited China twice: on business to Shanghai & as a tourist to Beijing & Datong. I’ve been learning Mandarin for about 5 years. My main reason for going is to improve my Chinese by immersing myself in the culture - enjoying the scenery and food at the same time, of course! I will finance the trip myself, though I may do some volunteering as TEFL teacher-possibly in exchange for Mandarin lessons/a meal/an overnight stay – whatever! I don’t know if that will encourage anyone to reply, but just thought I’d give you an idea of my motivation!

Thanks in advance,
Julie