APEC Card - update on timing

[DTM1]

Just a quick update on current timing. I applied for my APEC card in late July, and just received it last week, endorsed for all participating economies.

I had initially sought an interim card, but I think my secretary forgot that part, so it waited until all the approvals came through.

Based on previous comments, I was surprised that China came through so fast, so I thought I'd pass on that info.

Now I can look forward to avoiding the long customs queues - travelling with only cabin luggage will really be worth it now!

cheers

 

[moa999]

Am also in the process of a renewal (and keeping a record) so thought I would provided an update as well.

Had a passport expiring Jul-10 and APEC card Feb-10.
Based on advice from Dept of Immi I reapplied for a new passport first, as otherwise APEC card will expire on passport expiry not at 3 years.

Mid-July - New passport issued
Mid-July - Renewal form sent off to APEC
(used the old form which enables you to type directly into the PDF, but did provide the certified info needed from the new form)
New form here - http://www.businessmobility.org/key/apec_application0509.pdf
Old form here - http://www.businessmobility.org/key/apec_application.pdf

Early-Sep - Amex finally processed and letter arrives.

From what I can tell, APEC site typically updates on Tue or Wed with new approvals. Below is record of country by country approval:
1wk - 4 - AUS, CHL, NZL, MEX
2wk - 8 - HKG, KOR, THL, PER
3wk - 10 - CHN, TWN
4wk - 11 - BRU
5wk - 13 - PHI, VIE
6wk - 14 - IND
7wk - 14

Still missing MAL, JAP, PNG, SIN
Agree with DTM1 that China is much quicker than previous.


So despite applying at roughly the same time as DTM1 my form was not processed immediately (maybe because this was a renewal).

--

Also as a reminder, APEC card now enables you to enrol in the Hong Kong e-channel program.
The Government of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region - Immigration Department

 

[DTM1]

the other funny thing I found, was that the online site kept telling me that no approvals had been granted yet - even after I received the card, so don't necessarily be guided by that - although it seemed to work for the poster above...

 

[trippin_the_rift]

Received my final card the other day, was still missing .MY...

 

[moa999]

As an update - now at the 12wk point (3 months) and still only have 16 countries.

1wk - 4 - AUS, CHL, NZL, MEX
2wk - 8 - HKG, KOR, THL, PER
3wk - 10 - CHN, TWN
4wk - 11 - BRU
5wk - 13 - PHI, VIE
6wk - 14 - IND
7wk - 14
8wk - 15 - SIN
9wk - 15
10wk- 16 - PNG
11wk- 16
12wk- 16

From looking at random numbers, JAP should come through soon, but at least 500 applicants in front of me still dont have MAL? (Malaysia)

 

[trippin_the_rift]

Still no malaysia on mine either

I was in penang just last week and didn't see any APEC lane, hopefully this is only because it's not a major hub!

 

[DTM1]

funnily enough, I only realised last week, preparing to leave for Japan, that I didn't get a clearance for Japan. Luckily, no dramas, as I have a UK passport as well, so no visa needed. whew ....!

 

[moa999]

To complete my history

13wk- 17 JPN
24wk - 18 MYL - ie 6 months to get Malaysia

 

[trippin_the_rift]

To complete my history

13wk- 17 JPN
24wk - 18 MYL - ie 6 months to get Malaysia

Malaysia arrived for me yesterday too. Batch processing?