As many already know, written summations (in English) of the latest visa rules and restrictions are hard to come by. That being said, many different groups have worked hard to translate sections of what has been found in Chinese in order to help out those who've found themselves stuck with Visa troubles.

We recently tried to print an article about updated visa rules but were advised not to print it as the information did not come from an "official" source (read: government ok'd). While we're pretty sure that Magic knows what's going on, his word and that of others is not worth anything without an official chop on it. To that effect, here is the not-fit-for-print article below. You can find out more details and ongoing updates about visa rules here

No Extensions for You

In the visa game, the rules keep on changing. Sparked by Olympic fervor and the sway of current events, the Chinese government has been further tightening restrictions, however adequate information on these new restrictions has been less than forthcoming. In light of the mass exodus of expats from Shanghai, here are some of the most important developments you should know about if you’re intending to stick around.

First, L and F visas are now only good for 30 days. On top of this, there will be no L or F visa extensions granted beyond July 1, the exception being L visa extensions for those married to Chinese nationals. You cannot switch between an L and an F visa and F visas issued in China can no longer be renewed on the mainland. Those wishing to remain in the country for a longer period of time must apply for a Z visa. Tricky thing is, Z visas are increasingly difficult to get, and even some who seek to renew their Z visas are being denied. To qualify for a Z visa, you must be employed by a registered company, undergo medical tests, be graduated for over two years, and provide letters showing you’ve worked for companies prior to coming to China. The authorities are even going so far as to make determinations about whether or not your degree and educational background is “adequate” for your current field of work. While Z visa extensions are technically unaffected, the latter has been cause for denied renewals. Spousal visas shouldn’t pose too much of a problem, though dependants who are not married now need to provide a marriage license—a whole new kind of shot-gun wedding.

Further, nationals from a select group of 33 countries (mostly in the Middle East, Central and Southeast Asia and Africa, find the full list on the CW blog) cannot apply for visas in Hong Kong or Macau. Issuance of multiple-entry visas is being suspended, possibly indefinitely, though those multiple entry visas not yet expired are still valid. Businesspeople seeking short-term visas to enter the country are also being told visas must be issues from their home countries. The draconian clampdown has drawn complaints from both the tourism and business industries. Foreigners are now supposed to carry their passports with them at all times and face detention and fines of RMB500 per day for overstaying their visa.