Visa Troubles

What complication revolve around visas! Here I thought we would have our visa documents all taken care of by now but there's a hold up with the Chinese government. Now we need a confirmation email from my most recent employer back to the government offices that administer the visa applications before I can even proceed on my end. Even when they receive confirmation I have to send in for the visas here through the chinese consulate. This is going to be tight and there was absolutely nothing I can do but continue to pester all involved! Has anyone else out there ever faced similar problems?