First-Time Traveller to China

Myself and a colleague of mine (working for a Northern Irish construction company) are planning on travelling to China for business purposes. Though not trading anything or making transactions, we are traveling for the purposes of our company and to inspect some prefabricated steel-work. In light of this information, can I assume we will require an ‘M’? If not please advise what visa we will require.

Also, can I simply arrive at the office in Edinburgh with passport, photo and application form in order to start the process of gaining it? How long will this process take? Can I bring my colleagues passport and application or will he have to be present at the time of submission also?

We plan to leave next Saturday and have nothing organised as of yet, some assistance on this matter would be much appreciated.

Many thanks