''UREGENT ENQUIRE'' Can I get a family resident permit while in China with an M visa?

RE: UPDATE.

I have rang the Entry and Exit bureaus in all three location and got three different unpleasant answers :(
1- Guangzhou Bureau: I can apply right away by providing a list of documents (incl. an address proof in Guangdong province for at least 6 months fro my wife)
2- Yiwu Bureau: It impossible to apply within China; I have to travel back to my country and apply from there. (I'm thinking if it would be possible to apply from Hong Kong)
3- Chengdu Bureau: It is possible unless I provide a Marriage Certificate legalised by the Chinese Embassy in the UK. (it takes ages; I need to pay for a copy from the FCO and wait for about a week, then take it to the Chinese embassy pay for the legalisation fees and wait for another 5-10 days; and all this shall b done in person!!!!)

Verdict: unqualified Entry and Exit bureaus employees :(

Houwa, it's not the employees' fault. You know, different places have different procedures. In some cities, you can change from M type to Q type without leaving. However, in some other cities, you have to exit and apply.

You are right. There is a chance that you can apply for Q1 type in HK. I think you should go there to apply for Q1 type. Don't forget to ask the authority to authenticate your marriage certificate because authenticated and notarized versions (both English and Chinese versions) are required when you change your Q1 to a resident permit.

Thanks a lot for the prompt reply Helen. As far as I understand, I don't need a notarised copy of my marriage certificate in order to acquire a Q1 (arguably a Q2) type from HK. I read that a Q1 is obtained for the mere purpose of applying for a RP within 30 days (not so convienent); What if I apply for a Q2 instead, may I be able to an RP afterwards without having to leave the Mainland?

Hi, if you apply for the Q2, you do not need to change it into a residence permit, but you are only allowed to stay for less than 180 days.