Appointment-Based System & Processing Times
The Chinese consulate requires all visa applicants to submit fingerprints as part of the submission process. VisaCentral will schedule your appointment at a convenient time for you after you have submitted, and we have approved your documents.Wait time for appointments can take up to 30 days due to limited availability. Please note that the appointment will only be arranged once VisaCentral receive the physical documents and passport in our office. The processing time quoted is the time taken for the visa to be received after the scheduled appointment. Take this in to consideration when requesting your China visa
Sample of the Business Travel Requirements for an China Visa for Singapore Citizens
Fingerprint Submission
If you are aged between 14 and 70, your China visa application will not be considered complete until you have submitted fingerprints at a China Visa Application Service Centre. After we have received all the materials required in support of your visa application we will call you to schedule an appointment to submit fingerprints at a China Visa Application Service Centre. Our service includes a standard appointment which is available on a first come, first serve basis.
Passport
The applicant's actual passport. The passport must:
- Have at least two blank visa pages
- Be valid for six months beyond the length of your requested visa (e.g. if you are requesting a6 month visa your passport must be valid for 12 months)
Visa Application and Photograph
Complete the enclosed China Application Form. Then send it and the rest of your documents to the VisaCentral office address listed on the submission checklist page of this application pack. VisaCentral will work with the Chinese government to submit your application. After the application has been accepted we will send it to you via encrypted email for your signature.
Upload your photograph at https://visacentral.sg/photo-service. For guidance on how to submit an acceptable photograph refer to the China Photo Guide contained in this Application Pack.Copy of Passport Identification Page
A clear colour copy of the information page(s) from the applicant's passport
(Video) China drops travel bans for business and tourist visasLetter of Invitation
You must provide a letter of invitation from your Chinese business counterparts. A copy is acceptable. The letter must:
- Be in English or Chinese
- Be addressed to the Embassy of the People's Republic of China in Singapore
- Be on company letterhead
- Include all information listed on the ID page of your passport (full ame, date of birth, gender, passport number, issue date, expiry date, passport issuing authority)
- Specify in detail the purpose of trip (including place of visit, arrival and departure dates, local contact details)
- Specify the requested number of entries and the length of stay required for the visa
- Include an acceptance of financial responsibility for the applicant
- Be signed by the legal representative of the company or the inviting individual
- Display the company stamp or seal on the letter
Travellers may refer to the sample Letter of Invitation provided in the Application Kit for how to format the letter.
Proof of Travel Arrangements
You must provide proof of travel arrangements for the duration of your trip. Details of your intended arrangements must:
- Include a copy of an itinerary or e-ticket showing entry and exit dates
- Show the traveler's full name as it appears in the passport
VisaCentral - Order Confirmation
Please provide the VisaCentral Order Summary which will be emailed to you at the time of placing the order.
Please Read
Special Reminders:
- If necessary, the consular officer may require the applicant to provide other proof documents or supplementary materials
- The consular officer will decide on whether or not to issue the visa and on its validity, duration of stay and number of entries in light of specific conditions of the applicant
Place of Birth
If the applicant was born in China, (including Hong Kong, Taiwan or Macau), they must provide:
- A copy of their previous China visa
If the applicant has not had a previous visa for China, they must provide:
- A copy of the passport identification page and cancelled information page from the old China, Hong Kong, Taiwan, or Macau passport
Please Note: Further documentation may be requested at the discretion of the Embassy.
Applicants with Media Occupations
If the applicant works for a company associated with the media, they must supply an additionaloriginal business introduction letter. The letter must:
(Video) Why does China issue stapled visas to some Indians?- Be addressed to the China Embassy
- Be on company letterhead paper
- Include the name of the applicant
- Include the applicant’s passport number
- Include the applicant’s designation
- Include a brief description of the nature of the applicant’s company
- Specify in detail the purpose of journey and if is not media related, clearly indicate that the visit is not media related or engaging in any media coverage
- Specify the requested number of entries and the length of visa required
- Include an acceptance of financial responsibility for the applicant
- Be signed by the applicant's supervisor or the company's HR department
An originalpersonal declaration letter is alsorequired. The letter must:
- Be addressed to the China Embassy
- Include the name of the applicant
- Include the applicant’s passport number
- Include the applicant’s designation
- Include a brief description of the nature of the applicant’s company
- Specify in detail the purpose of journey and if it is not media related, clearly indicate that the visit is not media related or engaging in any media coverage
- Specify the requested number of entries and the length of visa required
- Be signedby the applicant
An original invitation letter from Chinese business counterparts is also required. The letter must:
- Be in English
- Be addressed to the China Embassy
- Be on company letterhead paper
- Include information of the applicant
- Specify in detail the purpose of journey and if is not media related, clearly indicate that the visit is not media related or engaging in any media coverage
- Specify the requested number of entries and the length of visa required
- Include an acceptance of financial responsibility for the applicant
- Include a brief description of the nature of the company
- Be signed by the applicant's supervisor or the company's HR department in China company
Processing time and visa validity grantedwill be subject to the Chinese Embassy’s discretion.VisaCentral cannot assist to obtain invitations for applicants with media related occupations.
Multiple Entry Visa Applicants
Applicants requesting a 6-month or 12-month multiple entry business visa must provide copies of their previous Chinese business visa. Please keep in mind the following:
- If the valid visa is in another valid passport, that valid original passport must be submitted to the Embassy for cancellation (travellers can only carry one valid China visa on any passport)
- If the valid visa is in an expired/cancelled passport, that expired/cancelled passport must be submitted to the Embassy for cancellation and verification purposes.
- If the expired visa is in an expired passport, you must provide a clear colour copy of the previous passport biodata pageand China visa. A copy of the entry/exit stamp by the Chinese Immigration must also be provided to show evidence that the visa had been utilised. If the visa was not utilised, the embassy may grant a single or double entry visa and at their discretion.
- If the expired visa is in another valid passport (e.g. for dual passport holders or holders of second national passport), that valid original passport must be submitted also to the Embassy for verification purposes
The applicant's Employment Authorisation or Residency Permit must also be valid at least1 month beyond the exit date of the intended visa. For example, to request a 12-month multiple entry visa, the applicant's pass must be valid forat least13 months.
Additionally, the applicant's passport must be valid for at least 18 months. For example, to request a 1-year multiple entry visa, the applicant's passport must be valid forat least18 months.
Please note: The 6-month and 12-month multiple entry business visas are issued at the discretion of the Chinese Embassy in Singapore.If applicants have not utilised their previous China visa, the Chinese Embassy may not grant a multiple entry visa.
Travellers Born In or Travelled to Turkey
Applicants who were born in Turkey or who have travelled to Turkey must provide an original personal letter. This letter should state the detailed reasons for travel to Turkey and specify the exact date(s) of entry, exit, and duration of the stay(s). Additionally, a photo copy of the Turkey visa (if applicable) and all entry and exit stamps must be provided.
Withdrawal of Applications
Please note the Chinese Embassy discourages the withdrawal of an application once submitted
Travellers Born In or Travelled to Pakistan
Applicants who were born in Pakistan and who have travelled to Pakistan must provide an original personal letter. This letter should state the detailed reasons for travel to Pakistan and specify the exact date(s) of entry, exit, and duration of the stay(s). A photocopy of all Pakistan entry and exit stamps must be submitted together with the application.
For Pakistan passport holders, a clear photocopy (front and back) of Pakistan ID card must additionally be provided. If you are unable to provide the Pakistan ID card, the reason must be provided in the personal letter.
(Video) CHINA IS OPEN | To All Visas |All You Need To Know
Appointment-Based System & Processing Times
The Chinese consulate requires all visa applicants to submit fingerprints as part of the submission process. VisaCentral will schedule your appointment at a convenient time for you after you have submitted, and we have approved your documents.Wait time for appointments can take up to 30 days due to limited availability. Please note that the appointment will only be arranged once VisaCentral receive the physical documents and passport in our office. The processing time quoted is the time taken for the visa to be received after the scheduled appointment. Take this in to consideration when requesting your China visa
Sample of the Tourist Travel Requirements for an China Visas for Singapore Citizens
Passport
The applicant's actual passport. The passport must:
- Have at least two blank visa pages
- Be valid for six months beyond the length of your requested visa (e.g. if you are requesting a6 month visa your passport must be valid for 12 months)
Visa Application and Photograph
Complete the enclosed China Application Form. Then send it and the rest of your documents to the VisaCentral office address listed on the submission checklist page of this application pack. VisaCentral will work with the Chinese government to submit your application. After the application has been accepted we will send it to you via encrypted email for your signature.
Upload your photograph at https://visacentral.sg/photo-service. For guidance on how to submit an acceptable photograph refer to the China Photo Guide contained in this Application Pack.Proof of Travel Arrangements
You must provide proof of travel arrangements for the duration of your trip. Details of your intended arrangements must:
- Include a copy of an itinerary or e-ticket showing entry and exit dates
- Show the traveler's full name as it appears in the passport
- Includea copy of the hotel confirmation
Double entry visas: Two flight itineraries must be provided for double entry visa applications. The first itinerary must show the first entry & exit dates to China. The second itinerary must show that the applicant is required to enter China within a short period of time from the first entry (e.g Travellers who are on cruise and are travelling to two destinations in China).
Please note that it will be at the discretion of the Chinese Embassy to approve a double entry visa.
Ifstaying withfamily or friends the following must be supplied:
- A copy of the flight confirmation showing onward/return travel - If you are requesting a double or multiple entry visa, the itinerary and invitation must specify all entries and exits
- A photocopy of the inviting party’s passport and residence permit/visa or copy of front and back of their Chinese ID card if a Chinese national.
- An invitation letter which must contain:
a) Information of the applicant (incl. full name, gender, date of birth, etc.)
b) Information regarding the visit (incl. purpose of visit, arrival and departure dates, place(s) to be visited, relationship between the applicant and the inviting party, and details of any financial support to be provided during the stay in China)
c) Information of the invitingindividual (incl. name, contact telephone number, address, signature of individual). - If visiting a family member the applicant must supply a photocopy of their certification of kinshipi.e. marriage certificate, birth certificate or notarized certification of kinship issued by the Chinese Public Security Bureau showing the relationship of family members between applicants and inviting parties. ("Family member" refers to spouses, parents, sons, daughters, spouses of sons or daughters, brothers, sisters, grandparents, grandsons, granddaughters and parents-in-law)
VisaCentral - Order Confirmation
Please provide the VisaCentral Order Summary which will be emailed to you at the time of placing the order.
Place of Birth
(Video) Is China Allowing Tourist Visas? Guide to Application for Chinese Tourist VisasIf the applicant was born in China, (including Hong Kong, Taiwan or Macau), they must provide:
- A copy of their previous China visa
If the applicant has not had a previous visa for China, they must provide:
- A copy of the passport identification page and cancelled information page from the old China, Hong Kong, Taiwan, or Macau passport
Please Note: Further documentation may be requested at the discretion of the Embassy.
Copy of Passport Identification Page
A clear colour copy of the information page(s) from the applicant's passport
Applicants with Media Occupations
If the applicant works for a company associated with the media, they must supply an additional business introduction letter. The letter must:
- Be addressed to the China Embassy
- Be on company letterhead paper
- Include the name of the applicant
- Specify in detail the purpose of journey and if is not media related, clearly indicate that the visit is not media related or engaging in any media coverage
- Specify the requested number of entries and the length of visa required
- Include an acceptance of financial responsibility for the applicant
- Be signed by the applicant's supervisor or the company's HR department
A personal letter is also required. The letter must:
- Be addressed to the China Embassy
- Specify in detail the purpose of journey and if it is not media related, clearly indicate that the visit is not media related or engaging in any
media coverage - Specify the requested number of entries and the length of visa required
- Be signed by the applicant
Processing time and visa validity granted will be subject to the Chinese Embassy’s discretion. CIBT cannot assist to obtain invitations for applicants with media related occupations.
Travellers Born In or Travelled to Turkey
Applicants who were born in Turkey or who have travelled to Turkey must provide an original personal letter. This letter should state the detailed reasons for travel to Turkey and specify the exact date(s) of entry, exit, and duration of the stay(s). Additionally, a photo copy of the Turkey visa (if applicable) and all entry and exit stamps must be provided.
Withdrawal of Applications
Please note the Chinese Embassy discourages the withdrawal of an application once submitted
Travellers Born In or Travelled to Pakistan
Applicants who were born in Pakistan and who have travelled to Pakistan must provide an original personal letter. This letter should state the detailed reasons for travel to Pakistan and specify the exact date(s) of entry, exit, and duration of the stay(s). A photocopy of all Pakistan entry and exit stamps must be submitted together with the application.
(Video) China to RESUME issuing all VISA types for first time since 2020 | Latest English News | WIONFor Pakistan passport holders, a clear photocopy (front and back) of Pakistan ID card must additionally be provided. If you are unable to provide the Pakistan ID card, the reason must be provided in the personal letter.
FAQs
China Travel Visa | China Business Visas | China Tourist Visas? ›
A: Generally speaking, a business visa permits a traveller to engage in business-related activities while a tourist visa is issued solely for the purpose of travel for pleasure.
What is the difference between business visa and tourist visa in China? ›A: Generally speaking, a business visa permits a traveller to engage in business-related activities while a tourist visa is issued solely for the purpose of travel for pleasure.
What is the difference between business visa and tourist visa? ›In general, 'tourist' visas are issued specifically for the purpose of travel for pleasure, while a 'business' visa generally permits a traveler to engage in normal business-related activities.
Can I visit China on a business visa? ›Previously, the F visa was a broad class of visa that covered non-commercial activities as well as business activities. Now business activities require an M visa and the F visa is only allowed for non-commercial visits to China.
Is China tourist visa available now? ›From January 8, 2023, China has resumed the issuance of visas for foreign nationals.
How long can you stay in China on a business visa? ›China “M” business visas are issued for commercial and trade activities, such as visiting clients, meeting with business partners, and attending trade fairs. These visas are typically valid for 3 months.
How many days can I stay in China on a tourist visa? ›The intended duration of stay in China is limited to no more than 180 days. Issued to those who are going to reside in China permanently. Original passport with at least six months of remaining validity and with blank visa pages, a photocopy of the passport's data page and the photo page if it is separate.
Can you be a tourist on business visa? ›What Is a B1/B2 Visa? The B1 visa and B2 visa are temporary, non-immigrant visas that allow the holder to travel to the United States for either business or tourism purposes. Almost all reasons for temporary travel are covered by B visas except student travel, which is covered under F-1 visas.
What can you not do on a business visa? ›- Starting to conduct business in the USA or helping someone in a family business.
- Performing productive work in the U.S. while on a business visa. ...
- Working under the supervision of or under an American employer.
- Accepting paid or unpaid employment.
You must demonstrate the following in order to be eligible for a B-1 visa: The purpose of your trip is to enter the United States for business of a legitimate nature. You plan to remain for a specific limited period of time. You have sufficient funds to cover the expenses of the trip and your stay in the United States.
How does a US citizen get a visa for China? ›
Visit your local Chinese Embassy/Consulate and submit your application form and other documents required. Pay the visa cost (140 USD) at the visa office and pick your visa.
What is the benefit of business visa in China? ›The China Business Visa is a single-entry travel document that allows you to enter China for only 30 days. The China Business Visa is valid for 90 days since the document is issued. The China Business Visa allows you to visit clients, meet with business partners, and attend trade fairs.
Do US citizens need visa for China? ›Americans need visas to visit China. These visas are available only from the Chinese authorities and are not issued by the American Consulate. See “Applying for China visas in Hong Kong” for more information.
Is China issuing tourist visas 2023? ›As of March 15, 2023, the Chinese government announced it will once again be issuing tourist visas for leisure travel to China. The government of China announced that starting Monday, January 9, 2023, foreign national visitors are no longer required to quarantine upon arrival.
How long does it take to get a tourist visa for China? ›Answer: If you have submitted all documents required, it normally takes 4 business days (it varies case by case). If you have a special or emergency situation, you may request express (2 or 3 business days) with an additional fee. Approval for such services may and may not be provided by the Chinese Embassy.
What is the cost of a tourist visa for China for a US citizen? ›Type of visa | Maximum validity | Embassy fee |
---|---|---|
Single Entry | up to 90 days | $ 160.00 |
Double Entry | up to 180 days | $ 140.00 |
Double Entry | up to 180 days | $ 160.00 |
Multiple Entry | up to 180 days | $ 140.00 |
1. Regular service: The processing time is usually 4 working days. 2. Express service: The processing time is usually 3 working days.
How long can a US citizen stay in China without a visa? ›China's visa-free policies allow nationals of certain countries, including the United States, the United Kingdom, Singapore, Australia, and New Zealand to travel to China for stays ranging from 24 hours to 180 days without obtaining a visa if certain requirements are met.
How much does a China business visa cost? ›China visa fees vary enormously according to your nationality, the number of entries required, the country you are applying in, and whether you want an express service. Generally the cost is $185 for an American citizen, and for citizens of other countries, the fee ranges from $30 to $90.
How to stay in China for 6 months? ›A multiple-entry China Visa is the most popular option, because it permits the visitor to enter and exit China as many time as he/she likes within the validity. You can apply for multiple entry visa for 6 months, 1 year, 2 year, 5 year and above ( up to 10 years in countries like US, UK, etc).
What is fast track visa for China? ›
What is a fast-track visa? Unlike urgent China visas or other expedited applications, fast-track China visas mean you're planning to leave the country the next day. As such, you need your Chinese visa processed the same day or delivered first thing in the morning.
What is the longest visa for China? ›Family Visa (Q1, Long Term)
Issued to those who are family members of Chinese citizens or of foreigners with Chinese permanent residence and intend to go to China for family reunion, or to those who intend to go to China for the purpose of foster care. The intended duration of stay in China exceeds 180 days.
A business visa is a travel authorization that allows an entrepreneur or company employees to visit a foreign country temporarily for business purposes. Under this kind of visa they may perform business activities that don't constitute work or employment in the country of issue whilst visiting.
What are 3 things you Cannot do with a visitor visa? ›- Study.
- Employment.
- Paid performances, or any professional performance before a paying audience.
- Arrival as a crewmember on a ship or aircraft.
- Work as foreign press, in radio, film, print journalism, or other information media.
- Permanent residence in the United States.
While B-1 or B-2 visas may be valid up to 10 years, visitors on B-1 or B-2 will only be permitted to stay in the United States for a short duration (maximum 6 months), as granted by US Customs and Border Protection upon arrival.
How much money do you need for business visa? ›What Does the USA Business Visa Cost? The USA Business Visa Costs $160 and is a a non-immigrant visa. The application fee is non-refundable and must be paid before the Interview.
How soon can I return to USA on tourist visa? ›How Soon Can You Visit the U.S. Again on a B Visa? Technically you can visit the United States whenever you want to if you have a B1/B2 visa and a valid passport. There aren't any rules or laws requiring you to wait a specific time before you are allowed to return.
What can stop you from getting a visa? ›An applicant's current and/or past actions, such as drug or criminal activities, as examples, may make the applicant ineligible for a visa. If denied a visa, in most cases the applicant is notified of the section of law which applies.
Is business visa and tourist visa same for US? ›B1 and B2 visas are generally referred to as “B visas”, and they are the most common types of visa issued for a wide range of uses in the United States. The B1 visa is issued mainly for short-term business trips, while the B2 visa is issued mainly traveling for tourism purposes.
How much bank balance is required for US tourist visa? ›Although there isn't a predetermined minimum balance needed, an F-1 visa requires a minimum balance of 10,000 USD.
What is difference between B1 and B2 visa? ›
B1 visa is the visa which allows you to enter the US with the purpose of doing business with a company within the US. B2 visa is the visa which allows you to enter the US with the purpose of tourism, pleasure, or visit to friends and family.
How can I get tourist visa for China from USA? ›- Be completed online.
- Include answers for all required fields.
- List the name of the traveler exactly as it is written in the passport.
- Be printed single-sided.
- Be dated and signed in blue or black ink.
- Be enclosed with all other documents in your visa application kit.
For a standard tourist visa, passport holders of countries with high GDP will not find applying very difficult. It becomes more challenging when you are applying outside of your home country, want to stay longer, or want to visit restricted areas like Xinjiang or Tibet.
Does China allow dual citizenship with US? ›Most countries do not think that a citizen will lose his nationality of his homeland if he succeeds in gaining another country's nationality. Does China admit dual nationality? Answer: China does not recognize dual nationality.
Can I get a 10 year visa for China? ›The 10-year tourist visa *provides US citizens with flexibility to visit China for tourism purposes multiple times over a ten-year period, without having to reapply for a visa. However, the visa does not allow the holder to work or study in China, and separate visas would need to be obtained for those purposes.
What is a Chinese Z visa? ›Work visa (Z-visa) is issued to those taking up a post or employment, or giving commercial performances, in China mainland.
How do I get a business permit in China? ›- Choose an Agency to Help You with the Registration.
- Select the Preferred Company Scope.
- Prepare the Required Documents.
- Apply for Approval Certificate.
- Apply for Business License.
- Register with the Public Security Bureau (PSB)
- Register the Company at the Tax Bureau.
- 1) Direct Transit. ...
- 2) Transit in Beijing, Shanghai, Guangzhou or Chengdu etc. ...
- 3) Foreigners to visiting the Pearl River Delta or Hainan Island. ...
- 4) Citizens of Singapore, Brunei and Japan.
The short answer is yes, you will most likely need a visa for China. Citizens of most countries do require a tourist visa to travel to China for any period of time, and most travellers receive a standard 30-day single-entry tourist visa for a trip to the mainland.
Can US citizens get Chinese citizenship? ›Foreign nationals or stateless persons who are willing to abide by China's Constitution and laws and who meet one of the following conditions may be naturalized upon approval of their applications: (1) they are near relatives of Chinese nationals; (2) they have settled in China; or (3) they have other legitimate ...
What documents are needed for China tourist visa? ›
Basic Documents
Original passport with at least six months of remaining validity and blank visa pages, and a photocopy of the bio data page. One completed Visa Application Form attached with a recently-taken color passport photo (bare-head, full face) against a light background.
Application process is as followed: 1,Visit the China Online Visa Application form at https://cova.cs.mfa.gov.cn and fill in all the information as required. After filling in, print out the confirmation page and the completed COVA form .
Which country is most difficult to get visa? ›- Iran.
- Turkmenistan.
- Chad.
- Bhutan.
- Saudi Arabia.
- Western Sahara.
- Somalia.
- North Korea.
The processing fee for a double-entry visa varies. Depending on your nationality, validity, and visa type, you may need to pay between $80 - $170 for the visa.
How long does it take to get a Chinese visa for a US citizen? ›Normally, it takes about 4 to 5 business days for applicant to get a China Visa, and the accurate collection date will be noted on the pick-up slip. If you submit China Tourist Visa (L Visa) on Monday, you can pick up on Thursday.
Where can I get a tourist visa for China? ›The Chinese Tourist Visa is an official travel document to visit the country for a holiday. Foreign passport holders can now apply online via iVisa and receive full guidance during the application process from our experts!
What type of business visa for China? ›Business M visa is issued to those who intend to go to China for commercial and trade activities. M Visa is usually issued for single-entry, double-entry or multiple-entry. M visa can be issued up to 10 years. The duration of stay (each visit) is normally 30-60 days based on particular Chinese Consulate.
Can I use tourist visa for business trip? ›Like the name says, visitor visa holders are allowed to visit the United States for business purposes or vacation.
What is the purpose of business visa? ›What is a business visa? Government authorities issue business visas to travelers who intend to conduct permissible business activities and attend meetings that do not constitute labor or employment in a specific country. Common activities performed on a business visa include: Attending meetings.
How long does it take to get a Chinese business visa? ›The first step is to submit a completed visa application form alongside the required documents. After submitting the form and documents, it will take between 3-5 working days for the visa to be processed.
Is business visa b1 or b2? ›
Visitor visas are nonimmigrant visas for persons who want to enter the United States temporarily for business (visa category B-1), for tourism (visa category B-2), or for a combination of both purposes (B-1/B-2).
What are the 4 types of visas? ›Visa Type | Description |
---|---|
Type #1: | Tourist visa (pleasure travel visas) |
Type #2: | Immigration and naturalization visas (including by marriage) |
Type #3: | Student visas (for studying abroad) |
Type #4: | Business or work visas (for working, which include both non-immigrant and immigrant types) |
- Prospective Students. The US immigration law does not allow prospective students to enter first on a tourist visa, look for schools, and change to a student visa. ...
- Journalist. ...
- Work. ...
- Dual Intentions. ...
- Studying. ...
- Frivolous Reasons.
China. Do U.S. citizens need a visa to visit China? Yes. U.S. citizens planning to visit China's mainland must apply for an entry visa through the Chinese Embassy or Consulate-General.
How long does it take to get a China visa for US citizens? ›Normally, it takes about 4 to 5 business days for applicant to get a China Visa, and the accurate collection date will be noted on the pick-up slip. If you submit China Tourist Visa (L Visa) on Monday, you can pick up on Thursday.