Hello all. I am planning to visit China in December and want to apply for my visa shortly. The q about a conviction troubles me. Do I answer it honestly and disclose my conviction albeit 6.5yrs ago or do I fail to disclose it? the conviction was for downloading 14 indecent images, an offence for which I continue to feel very guilty and remorseful. Any advice?

Thank you for your experience and advice. How did you word your disclosure? The messages about non-disclosure are confusing and I am wondering about staying quiet especially as so many advise non-disclosure. I will also consider applying for a year long visa so thank you for that advice.

I am going on own. Refusal of a visa would be a big problem hence my concern about disclosing.

If I don't disclose on the application form what are the risks and consequences?? It seems from various posts that no checks are made.

"Do you have any criminal record in China or any other country"?

You wouldn’t need a ‘Z’ visa if you’re not getting paid – it’s considered ‘voluntary’ work and you can do that on a tourist visa. The problem with tourist visas is you only get 30 days, (no matter what you apply for), but you can extend them for twice x 30 days each, (Public Security Bureau), giving you a total of 90 days.

Almost certainly a declaration will flag up an inquiry and will in nearly all cases be refused. It’s not what or how long ago, its criminal convictions they’re asking for. If you have one you should declare it, if you do you’re probably so naïve and unworldly wise that you really shouldn’t consider travelling abroad. Read between the lines on this one Steven.

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With all due respect

You're welcome and good luck.

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With all due respect

Forever, I might have missed it (appologies if I have) but is your conviction spent, and do you think this made a difference in their decision to award you a visa?
I have just over 3 years on teh SOR to go, anmd just over 12 months under supervision.
Thanks

I was unclear on the entry process regarding convictions when I went to the states in 1998 I declared them and was shipped back. I have since gone over on 12 ocassions so it pays to tell the truth althrough they interview you charge you money and dictate 1 visit and the period it can be taken. It stinks it impacts on my work opportunitys and is an area that needs to be sorted.