European earwig Forficula auricularia Linnaeus, 1758 from Pomegranate and carried by an American passenger was intercepted and identified by plant quarantine lab of Beijing Entry-Exit Inspection and Quarantine Bureau. Understanding the basic characteristics of F. auricularia can provide basic reference for its identification and quarantine by the relevant departments. Reference specimens of European earwig were collected and analysed. The taxonomic status, distribution and morphological characteristics of F. auricularia were examined. The interception process of Forficula in China was reviewed. The importance of quarantine of the pest was discussed. F. auricularia does not currently occur in China but pauses a risk. More attention of this species should be paid by quarantine inspection departments.