Translated with AI assistance
On September 15, new entry and exit regulations came into force in China. The document, consisting of 19 articles, clarifies the grounds for restrictions, strengthens control over cross-border violations, and separately introduces measures related to the protection of technological and industrial security. At the same time, China’s National Immigration Administration emphasizes that the new rules do not introduce additional restrictions for ordinary travel – tourism, study, family visits, or business.
The main innovation primarily concerns sensitive cases. Chinese citizens who violate export control or technology transfer regulations in a manner that could threaten national technological security may be banned from leaving the country by the authorities. For citizens who commit crimes against China’s national security or interests abroad, an exit ban is provided upon their return for a period of six months to three years.
The requirements for foreigners have also been clarified. For providing knowingly false information when applying for a visa or entering the country, a person may receive a ban on entry into China for a period of one to five years. Border services have also been granted the explicitly stipulated right to request supporting materials, including electronic data, when verifying identity and the purpose of travel. According to an immigration lawyer interviewed by CNA, phone checks are possible, but this refers to selective screening rather than a new routine procedure for all travelers.
The authorities explain the changes by citing growing foreign risks for Chinese citizens and the need to more precisely regulate violations related to security and cross-border technology transfers. In effect, Beijing is trying to combine two approaches: continuing to simplify ordinary international travel while simultaneously acquiring clearer tools for intervention in cases involving national security and sensitive technologies.
