@Brandon ***********

I had the "chat" recently. They are not that bad actually at immigration. Have no idea why I was pulled either at that particular time.

There was another guy there and the immigration officers were saying to him “look, just book a hotel now and show us the proof and we will let you in”. The vibe I got was they don’t actually want to turn people away, but just need to highlight maybe it’s time to get a proper visa.

I had the cash on me and the proofs too. Was asked for the cash, and counted out 21k which was sweet. That was written on the form I had to sign.

Not having that 20k is a marvellous reason to not be allowed in. At that stage (when you’ve been pulled for the chat) they are actually only doing their jobs.

@Tod ********

Ok thanks as always for the advice.

@Tod ********

OK, thanks for this. I'll try to get the Covid extension now. Is it possible to go early to get this or do they start it the day you get there?

Also, they have a photocopy of the TM6 so hopefully, this might help the matter.

I think you are mistaken to be honest; not many have even heard of this visa. The extensions can be got, but a lot more time is needed - I personally wasn't aware of this. Wrongly assumed it was a case of grabbing the required docs and showing up a couple of weeks before. Such is life. Thanks very much for the info.

Nice and visual.

A British friend just went back to China as has a job there, he's in a hotel in Beijing after being tested for the virus and been cleared. Now in quarantine. Not sure if this helps. Maybe he'll be kind enough to comment.

@Stephen *********

Does this also pertain to an already 30 day extension to a 30 day visa exempt stamp?

The entire reason for the question is there numerous websites advertising it so very difficult to work out which is the "real" one.