Acquiring a Chinese Visa

kime

This is my first time getting a visa "on my own," as it were. I'm not concerned about the application or getting it accepted or whatnot (although a bit curious on a time expectancy, if anyone has any guesses on that).

My main question deals with actually turning in the material. It has to be done in person, but it doesn't actually have to be me. I don't think there's a really easy way for me to actually do this myself, but there are, I think, companies/organizations that do this for you? Curious if anyone knows any reputable ones, since I'd rather not just send my passport off to some company without hearing at least one "yes they are legit" comment.

Any other general advise is appreciated, but I think that's my biggest concern for now.

clam2000

My experience is that the process generally takes about a month with a service. If you go in person it's a couple weeks.

Here's a relevant paragraph I pulled up from when I studied abroad.

The agency I prefer, and with whom I've
had very good results, is one in Washington DC that has authority to
process Chinese visas at the Embassy there. You can use this agency
no matter where in the States you live as the Embassy in Washington DC
is not jurisdictional, unlike the consulates. The name of the agency
is Travel Document Express. The phone number is (202) 785-3250 and the
web site is: http://www.traveldocument.com/ Using overnight delivery
both ways, they can process your visa in just two to five days,
depending on your needs and how much you want to pay.