China Visa - is tour company invitation necessary?

[Simon Judd]

Hi there,

I’m making arrangements to travel to China from Tajikistan, via the Qolma-kumar Pass in July.

Because of some difficulty in gaining a Chinese visa I approached a travel company in Kashgar (China) to get a “certificate” relating to a tour.

It required me to pay 300 US and then it provided me with a “certificate” confirming the tour. The so-called “tour” is only for 3 days.

I now have a Chinese visa but the travel company in question is requiring more and more money, it’s ridiculous.

Will my visa be successful if I attempt to make the crossing by myself and then join with others in a ride to Kashgar?

I would be very grateful for your advice. By the way, I’m an Australian citizen.

Thanks in advance, Simon.

[steven]

If you have a visa you don't need any certificate.