Multiple entry visas -- maximum length of each stay

Hi, the maximum length of stay each entry is 3 months. Leaving for HK counts an exit from China. US passport is not required visa to HK for 90 days. It is ok for you to exit China via HK.

Thank you. Are you sure the 3 month duration for each stay applies to both the 6 and 12 month multiple entry visas?

It depends on visa officers actually as they have the final say to your application, so 60 days or 90 days are both possible. Generally, 90 days duration is issued to one year L visa.

Thanks again! This discussion has been very useful.

I am planning to apply for a 6 or 12 month visa with multiple entries, but I don't have a specific itinerary, except for the first 3 months, when I plan to be in Hunan province to meet some friends I've met on the Internet. I will not be using their addresses as places of residences, and I do not plan to ask for invitations.

What is the best strategy for getting it approved? Should I state that my plans are undetermined after the first 3 months? Should I make up an itinerary which I probably won't follow? And if I don't follow such a pre-stated itinerary, will there be negative consequences? That is, as a tourist in China, can I generally go where I want, when I want, or will I be expected to adhere strictly to a pre-stated intinerary?

You'd better provide an detailed itinerary with proof like ticket and hotel bookings for application to be approved. But don't worry, no one will check that where you live in China or if you follow the former itinerary after you enter with the multiple visa. So, it is not a problem in this regard.

Do you think this would satisfy the visa officer for an itinerary?

On the application I will name 4 hotels in 4 cities with addresses, and where possible phone numbers (phone numbers not always available on the Internet), where I plan to remain for 90 days each, but only book the first hotel for the first 7 days. I usually don't book more than a week at any hotel because before seeing the premises in person, I can't be sure I will like the accommodations. Also, it is impractical to book, and pay, far in advance for the other hotels.

Hi, have a try first. They may take it in consideration. Best wishes!