What if I have to have my passport the month immediately before the CSP?

If you need your passport prior to that time, call the DC office to make arrangements (toll free 1-877-946-9373). 

If you’re coming to the CSP from another country, then you’ll need make your own arrangements to get to the gateway city of entry (usually Hong Kong).

If, because you are coming from another country, you choose to get a visa to China on your own, be aware that this will entail some extra hassle, and if there’s a visa mix-up (a distinct possibility), this could add some costs.