Has anyone able to stay in China for close to 180 days (over the winter) on an L visa year after year? My wife and I will be retiring and would like to spend the winter there. For example, flying from your home country to China and staying close to 90 days, then traveling to a nearby country for 2–3 weeks, returning to China for another close to 90 days, and then flying back to your home country.
Backup Post: Has anyone able to stay in China for close to 180 days (over the winter) on an L visa year after year? My wife and I will be retiring and would like to spend the winter there. For example, flying from your home country to China and staying close to 90 days, then traveling to a nearby country for 2–3 weeks, returning to China for another close to 90 days, and then flying back to your home country.
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There was a guy who said he did 9 months straight last year until september. I hear that as long as you don't take a local job illegally, they have no reason to turn you away. Plenty of rooms to rent, plenty of locals happy to take your tourist money. Some people get questioned for border runs, but they show some proof of having money and they're good to go. It's if you're broke they gonna question how tf you paying for things.
They’re starting to crack on L visa runs like you describe
I’m hoping for entering twice a year and then go away for 5 month won’t be a problem. Like an extended vacation in warmer weather. I do plan on traveling within China .. just not every week. 😎
You'll probably be fine. What you're going to want is good documentation of tourist activities like pictures or reservations or plans. They might question if you're working or going to school, and you should be prepared to prove that you're not.
They generally will ask questions and give you an opportunity for you to demonstrate that you're not working or going to school before they formally deny you entry.
You can easily stay. Just have proof of income if asked. They won't ask. And it's important your Chinese wife is with you during the entry process as she justifies your reason to enter China again and again. Plus she speaks the language. Don't let her line up separately.
You can legally stay in China and perform visa run as long as the purpose of your stay is in line with the visa category you are using.
L visa is for tourism. You are not supposed to use a L visa if you enter China and stay there do 90 days staying in your home and “visiting” your neighborhood.
My understanding is that if you have a S visa (private affairs) then your plan is totally legal. Even if you get questioned by the immigration after few runs, he cannot prevent you to enter since you are entering for the purpose of your visa and have never overstayed.