Know your visaThe difference between validity and stay duration
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If you intend to stay in China for an extended period, you should understand the distinction between visa validity and stay duration 鈥 two important terms that can save you hassles at immigration. While they may sound similar, they refer to different things, and misinterpreting them could find you in legal trouble. Here鈥檚 what you should know.
What are visa validity and stay duration?
Visa validity (enter before/expiry date): This is the period when you can enter China. Consider it similar to your favorite store鈥檚 opening hours: You can visit at any time before its closing hours, but you can鈥檛 stay indefinitely inside.
Stay duration (duration of each stay): This is the amount of time you are allowed to stay in China each time you enter the country. Each entry specifies the duration of your stay (for example, 30 days).
How does it work?
Let鈥檚 say you have a multiple-entry visa that鈥檚 valid until January 2026. That means you can enter China as many times as you like before that date.
However, each time you enter, there鈥檚 a stay duration limit 鈥 let鈥檚 say it鈥檚 30 days. This means that even if your visa is valid until 2026, each visit only allows you to stay for 30 days. Staying longer than allowed could mean overstaying your visa, which can cause problems.
What happens if you overstay?
If you overstay your visa, you could face penalties. For instance, you might receive a warning, and in more serious cases, you might face a fine or detention.
According to the Exit and Entry Administration Law, an illegal stay can result in fines of up to 500 yuan (US$68) per day (with a maximum fine of 10,000 yuan) or detention for five to 15 days.
Need more time?
If you need to extend your stay, don鈥檛 wait until the last minute to apply. You need to submit an extension request at least seven days before your stay expires.
How can you avoid a visa mix-up?
1. Know your dates: Always double-check both the expiry date and the stay duration. They鈥檙e not the same thing.
2. Stay within your limits: If your visa allows you 30 days, don鈥檛 push it to 31. Overstaying can lead to legal hassles.
3. Plan ahead: If you need to stay longer, apply for an extension well before your visa expires.
Got questions?
If you have any questions concerning your visa, please contact China鈥檚 National Immigration Administration鈥檚 12367 service hotline or visit its website for assistance.
Staying on top of your visa requirements can save you a lot of hassles later. Stay smart, stay legal and, most importantly, stay within your visa limits.
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