I have been reading and commenting on the various visa and permit threads and discussions for years. The rules and regulations keep changing, are interpreted and implemented differently by various officials all the time. There is no set answer. Each persons circumstances are different. I have done my visas and permits in Yunnan for over 11 years. There are always challenges each year. I have done this for others and employees. There are several persons who are listed on GOKM whom you can PAY to help you with permits and visas. My suggest is why not use a professional to help you. It can be far cheaper and much less stressful.