Hi FLIGHT TRANSIT IN GUANGZHOU

I have 1 passenger,He fly from BKI TO JFK but will transit in GuangZhou BaiYun Airport.His transit flight is more then 8hrs,but the airlines(China Southern Airlines) can provide him a free accommodation,The things is he don't have time to apply the Visa.Do you have any idea?do he compulsory must apply the entry permit if want to go out from the airport?his connecting flight is in the same day,or any free lounge can provide to him for rest since he is holding a card persons with disabilities.Your reply as soon as will much appreciated.