Zhejiang extends passport services to meet summer demand

Police departments across Zhejiang province have introduced extended hours at exit-entry document service halls this summer to handle a surge in passport applications.

Since June, authorities have held 194 evening and weekend sessions, serving more than 11,780 applicants and offering 869 emergency access passes — improving satisfaction among travelers and residents.

To support China's high-level opening-up, the National Immigration Administration has launched a pilot program in 20 cities — including Hangzhou and Ningbo — allowing residents to renew or replace travel documents entirely online.

As a result, online applications for exit-entry documents have surged in both cities, with more than 3,000 cases processed through digital channels since June.

In general, applicants with Zhejiang household registration can expect to receive documents within seven working days, while those from other provinces require up to 20 days.

Applicants facing emergencies — such as funerals, medical treatment, visits to critically ill relatives, urgent international negotiations, or imminent study abroad deadlines — can request expedited services via the WeChat account "gh_c72cbecb8b40".

The account also provides document guidelines, application status updates, destination safety alerts, and more. For further inquiries, the 12367 hotline offers 24-hour support.