Services

Emergencies

Arrest & Detention

If an American citizen is detained by Chinese authorities, the Embassy does all it can to assist. In conformance with the U.S.-PRC Consular Convention, Chinese authorities must report the detention of a U.S. citizen to the Embassy no later than four days from the date of arrest or detention. An Embassy officer will visit American detainees and provide a list of sources of legal advice or assistance. In cases of lengthy incarceration, we visit American prisoners at least every 30 to 60 days to ensure that American citizens receive treatment no worse than that accorded citizens of the PRC.

Victims of Crime

If an American is a victim of crime in China, he or she should contact the police in their local area. Everywhere in China, the Police Emergency Number is: 110. In such situations, Americans may also need to contact a doctor and/or a lawyer. Please see our list of Medical Facilities and Doctors for doctors, dentists, and hospitals known to treat foreigners. Please see Law Firms in China for a list of law firms in your area. It is not necessary for Americans who are victims of crime in China to contact the Embassy.

Emergency Funds

The fastest and most efficient method to send money internationally, including to China, is via Western Union. Although slower than Western Union, the U.S. Department of State can assist relatives in the U.S. who wish to send money in an emergency. The Embassy cannot cash checks. If for some reason an American citizen becomes destitute in China, the American Citizens Services (ACS) Unit can assist in contacting family members or friends who can send money. For more information on transferring money overseas, please see our section on sending emergency funds to China>>