Updated: 08 /01 /2003

1. Is an appointment required for a visa application? Can I send someone else to your office to apply for me?
No appointment is required. You may send someone else or a travel/visa agent to come to the visa office for application process, but application by mail is not acceptable.

2. Can I provide the embassy or consulate with a photocopy of my passport?
No. Your must provide your original passport.

3. My child is traveling to China with me. He cannot sign on his application; can I sign it on his/her behalf?
Yes.

4. I can't pull out your application from the Internet, what should I do?
Please fax your request for an application form to 713-5210237 with your return fax number. Our staff can fax one to you. Or you can mail us your request and enclose a self addressed prepaid return envelope. Our staff can mail the form back to you using the return envelope you provide.

5. I'm going to China on June 1, and my visa will expire on June 10 with its during of stay 30 days. Can I still stay in China for 30 days?
Yes. Here are some Explanations of Number of Entries, Validation and Duration of Stay of a Chinese Visa.
Validation is a period of time, during which a visa is valid for the holder to enter China. Validation starts from the date of issuance and the expiration date is shown as ENTER BEFORE on the visa.
Number of Entries designates how many times a visa can be used to enter China within its validation. Please note each time you travel from Hong Kong or Macao to Mainland China, one entry is counted. Single, double and multiple entry mean within the validation of the visa, you can enter China once, twice and unlimited times respectively.
Duration of Stay sets the maximum days of stay in China counting from the date of entry. Example: Mr. A has a single entry visa showing ENTER BEFORE Dec-20-2003 with duration of stay 30 days. If Mr. A enters China on Dec-18-2003, he can still stay up to 30 days.

6. Do I have to see a doctor to have the "Physical examination record for foreigner" filled out?
This form is only for those who will study in China over 1 year. If you are to stay in China for less than one year, it is not necessary

7. I am going to Guangdong, then to Hongkong and back to Guangdong for one night. Does it mean that I must have a double entry visa?
Yes. Please read the answer to Question 5

8. Can I use Certified Mail to send my application(no visa application by mail) to your office?
No. Due to technical reasons, the Consulate General in Houston can not accept Certified Mail, Registered Mail or mails requesting Return Receipt.