The situation: A foreigner is detained or questioned by Chinese police without an interpreter being provided, despite not being proficient in Chinese.
Applicable law: Article 9 of the Chinese Criminal Procedure Law guarantees the right of those who do not know Chinese to an interpreter at all stages of criminal proceedings. Article 262 of the Civil Procedure Law extends this right to civil proceedings. Any statement taken without an interpreter can be challenged as evidence.
Typical outcome: Expressly demanding an interpreter before answering any question. If you are in a police station, say: 'Wo xuyao fanyi' (I need an interpreter). If the request is refused, demand to contact your country's embassy.
🚔 Fights, theft, forgery · Awareness case
Foreign National's Right to a Legal Interpreter in Chinese Courts and Police · Yalla China
🤝 Governing law: 刑事诉讼法 / Criminal Procedure Law Art 9; 民事诉讼法 / Civil Procedure Law Art 262
You are detained or summoned for questioning and proceedings are conducted in Chinese which you do not master. Is the right to an interpreter a legal right?
Illustrative, general educational examples — not real specific facts and not legal advice; for awareness only. For an actual situation, consult a licensed lawyer.
🎓 The lesson / takeaway
Lesson: A statement without an interpreter may mean signing a document you do not understand. Exercise your right to silence and clearly request an interpreter before any interaction. Learn the phrase 'Wo xuyao fanyi' in Chinese.
🕒 Updated: 16 March 2026