Short answer
Apply for an extension before your current visa, stay permit or visa-free admission period ends. The process is handled by the local public-security Exit-Entry Administration, and the exact eligibility and documents depend on your nationality, visa type and reason for staying. There is no safe automatic extension: overstaying can lead to fines, detention or future entry problems.
Start before the expiry date
Treat the expiry date on your passport entry record or permit as a hard deadline. Contact the local Exit-Entry Administration early, explain your reason and ask which application form, appointment and documents they require.
Do not assume a ticket, hotel booking or invitation letter changes the legal status of your stay.
Documents to prepare
- Original passport and current visa, stay permit or entry record
- Application form issued or accepted by the local Exit-Entry Administration
- Proof of the reason for the extension, such as work, study, family or medical documentation
- Passport photos and payment receipt when the office requests them
If you are already overdue
Go to the local Exit-Entry Administration immediately and do not book another journey assuming you can resolve it at the airport. Explain the full situation honestly and ask for the official route to regularise the status.
Related guides
More questions answered
Where these matter
Official sources
Policies and booking channels change — check the official channel before you rely on it.