Work Visa 12 months British Citizen

Chris, I think it's possisble to get the multiple-entry permit. To be specific, you need to apply for a C type. You can either apply by yourself or through a travel agency.

Thanks for the reply Michelle,

I just called the Manchester office and asked them and they said that because I live in Tokyo that I can't apply for the entry permit? 12 month multiple entry permit will only be allocated to people that reside in the UK. But she did say "I think " many times that has me thinking I shouldn't give up yet.
When you say 'travel agencies' ? do you mean booking travel agencies for holidays or something else.
I really hope I can get something because I will be needing 23 x 1 month tourist L type at $100 a pop for 2016 alone. Each one will be for when I get off the ship and board a plane. That 2 hours journey cost me $100 a time and 1 and a half pages of my passport. It's crazy.

Thanks
Chris.

Dear, according to what you mentioned above, I think it’s possible for you to get it. You can ask your company to issue you a cover letter which can be used for the application.

However, I think you have some misunderstanding on the issue. You cannot apply for it from Manchester office indeed because you are now living in Japan. But you can apply for it at the embassy or consulate of PRC in Japan.

What I said about travel agency means that you can find a travel agency to apply for C type for you. You don’t have to find one to help you if you can do it yourself.

You will surely apply directly to the Chinese embassy/consulate in your country of residence and apply for a type suitable for crew. RCI, as your employer, should be able to assist you with this?