Thanks guys! I'm still gathering more info but it appears that there is a definite order of things to be done to make it as efficient as possible.
Purple or do you prefer Richard, hehe - I've also heard of a 3 month temp license being issued but it was to ferry a jet to maintenance. Maybe it could apply to this company as well so long as all the other boxes were checked off - written, medical, background check, authorised and recognised training completed - who knows? But doubtful as another friend in China says they need to literally see the license in person, not photocopies or scans even when supported by official FAA letters attesting to the qualifications.
All sounds doable given enough time, money and patience.
Thanks again.