Up here in Beijing it seems to be relaxing. A intern at my company recently picked up his F Visa from a local agent, converted from a 2 month L to a 1 year F, multi-entry, the works, for 1500 rmb (or abouts). My employer was quite surprised, as their instructions from the local Labor Bureau was that no work related visas would be issued for those under 25 anymore (he is 23). So, it appears the cracks are opening up again.