Return Visits

Inviting the Chinese side for a return visit to your company in the UK will demonstrate your intent to reciprocate the hospitality of the Chinese side, and will also strengthen the relationship.

UK Visas

The UK visa service has been complimented by major Chinese investors such as Huawei for its efficiency. Biometric data (fingerprints and photographs) is now required for all visa applications and this can be done at Visa Application Centres across China. Full details on the visa application process can be found at www.vfs-uk-cn.com

While the majority of visas are granted, some common problems arise which may prevent or delay the granting of visas to the UK. Some Chinese companies may rely on local agents for advice, rather than the Embassy website (www.uk.cn). The quality of these agents varies and they are often more of a hindrance than a help, recommend your visitors use official channels. On top of this, assistants or secretaries may miss or incorrectly enter vital information, so forms should be checked personally by the applicant. If assistants or colleagues are also applying, a cover letter to the visa section explaining that the applications are linked can help. Finally, visitors should allow plenty of time for their application, especially if they require several visas to visit multiple destinations.

The Concept of “Hosting”

The Chinese take the concept of being host (and you being in the role of a guest) very seriously.

Companies doing business in China are often treated to a wide range of assistance, including hotels, transport, meals and evening entertainment. Chinese companies can often lean on an extensive network of relationships to provide these without incurring direct costs, or at a substantial discount.

Unfortunately, when they are visiting the UK they expect the same, and most UK companies do not have the budget to handle two weeks of all-in travel for contacts they have never done business with and are not sure they ever will do business with. Therefore, it is best to be cautious about the extent to which hospitality is expected. Don't be rude, but do take the trouble to explain that things are different in the UK.

However, showing you care is not expensive. Making sure your visitors are greeted at the airport and making an effort to see them off when they leave is seen as basic hospitality in China. Organising some sight seeing or shopping for your guests and treating them to a meal in a good Chinese restaurant will also be well received.