The debt itself is permanent and will not expire, and creditors can also sue. However, there is a statute of limitations for arrears disputes. If the limitation of action expires, the debtor may raise the defense of non-performance, unless it voluntarily performs. If the limitation of action expires, the debtor may raise the defense of non-performance. After the expiration of the limitation period of action, if the debtor agrees to perform it, it shall not defend itself on the grounds of the expiration of the limitation period of action; If the debtor voluntarily performs, it may not request the return.
According to article 188 of the Civil Code of People's Republic of China (PRC), the limitation of action for requesting protection of civil rights from the people's court is three years. Where there are other provisions in the law, those provisions shall prevail. The limitation period of action shall be counted from the date when the creditor knows or should know that the right is damaged and the debtor knows it. Where there are other provisions in the law, those provisions shall prevail. However, the people's court shall not protect the rights that have been damaged for more than 20 years. Under special circumstances, the people's court may decide to extend the time according to the application of the obligee.