Step-by-step guide
Visa extension and residence permit deadlines
Three statutory windows decide whether you can file at all: a visa extension must be filed at least 7 days before your permitted stay ends, a first residence permit within 30 days of entry, and a residence permit renewal at least 30 days before it expires.
A work permit and a residence permit are two separate approvals with separate deadlines — holding a valid work permit does not extend the 30-day window for the residence permit itself.
- Visa extension (Article 29): if your visa marks a stay of 180 days or less and you need longer, file at least 7 days before the marked stay period ends, at the exit-entry administration of a public security bureau at or above county level in the place you are staying.
- An extension is reviewed, not automatic (Article 29): it is granted only where the stated reason is found reasonable and sufficient. If it is not granted, you are required to leave by the original date.
- Extensions are capped (Article 29): the total extension cannot exceed the stay period originally marked on the visa.
- First residence permit (Article 30): this applies only if your visa states that a residence permit must be obtained after entry. File within 30 days of the entry date at the exit-entry administration in the place you intend to reside. Fingerprints and other biometric data are collected.
- Review window (Article 30): the exit-entry administration examines the application and decides within 15 days of receiving the materials.
- Residence permit renewal (Article 32): file at least 30 days before the permit expires. This is also reviewed on whether the reason is reasonable and sufficient.
- Check current local requirements before you file: the National Immigration Administration website, or the 12367 immigration service hotline.