Chinese phrase
需要提前〜申请？ xū yào tí qián 〜 shēn qǐng
Meaning
Do I need to apply ___ in advance?
When to use it
Asks whether an application needs to be made in advance. It politely checks how early an application is required, such as for a visa.
Example dialogue
我想确认一下，我是不是 需要提前 三个月 申请？ wǒ xiǎng què rèn yí xià wǒ shì bú shì xū yào tí qián sān gè yuè shēn qǐng
I just want to confirm: do I need to apply three months in advance?
是的，签证最好提前三个月申请。 shì de qiān zhèng zuì hǎo tí qián sān gè yuè shēn qǐng
Yes, it is best to apply for a visa three months in advance.