mfpthebronze

To answer the original question: I have never had a Z-visa in the 5 years I've been living in China. I have alternating Tourist and Business visas in my passport. I e-mailed the Guangzhou consulate asking if I could direct file. They had me send them photocopies of my passport and visas, and sent a reply e-mail saying I could DCF. Went into Consulate in June to begin IR1 process, and handed over passport and e-mail. The woman at the window was a little incredulous at first, but after about 1 minute, I was given the go-ahead and the petition was accepted! Based on my own experience, I'd stat some dialogue with the consulate via e-mail before you go, and try to get approval of DCF that way. Good luck!