Originally Posted by
compton3bravo
As I understand it (please someone correct me if I am wrong) the Chinese have to apply for two Visas - one for the UK or Eire and one for the countries in the Schengen agreement which allows uninterrupted passage across borders.
Actually, if you are visiting Ireland as well you need three visas, there are separate ones, separately applied for, for the UK and for Ireland. The Common Travel Area for movement between the two countries does not extend to those who need visas. Actually trying to get Irish visas is a significant issue due to few consulates outside Western Europe, very lengthy processing times (I understand every application has to be faxed to Dublin for approval, though why this adds weeks to the process I am not sure) and regular refusals. And I speak from personal involvement.