China restricts the departure of citizens who break the law abroad

China is introducing new rules on entry and exit from the country starting from September 15. According to a decision adopted by the State Council of the People's Republic of China, the exit of Chinese citizens who have committed illegal or criminal acts abroad that threaten national security and the interests of the country will be temporarily restricted.

After such citizens return to China, they may be banned from going abroad for a period of 6 months to 3 years. This decision will be made after verification of the information through competent state bodies, including Chinese diplomatic missions. The same restriction will apply to citizens who have crossed the border illegally or been administratively detained for falsifying documents for malicious purposes.

At the same time, it was emphasized that the news circulating on social media that "any Chinese citizen who violates the law abroad will be banned from going abroad for 5 years" is not true. The ban period of up to 5 years is set for foreign citizens, who can be banned from entering China for 1 to 5 years for violating migration and border laws. The new regulations were announced by the Chinese Ministry of Justice. In early August, it was announced that the rules for entering and leaving China would be tightened.

The 19-article regulation, adopted on July 31, aims to ensure the safety of overseas flights, clarify the requirements for exit and entry applications, and regulate intermediary services.

**Exit regulations:**

Chinese citizens must legally and clearly state the reason for their trip in their application to leave the country, and cooperate with the investigation process. The organization or individual who sent the invitation is responsible for the authenticity of the information provided. If false documents or incorrect information are provided, the immigration authorities may refuse to issue travel documents or prohibit exit. In addition, Chinese authorities have warned citizens traveling to areas affected by war, armed conflict, natural disasters, or infectious diseases to refrain from such trips.

**Entry Rules:**

Foreigners applying for a Chinese visa, entry, stay, or residence permit must provide only accurate and reliable information. Those who provide false information, have been convicted of a criminal offense for violating border regulations, or have been administratively punished for forging documents may be denied entry to China. Foreign nationals who are subject to restrictions imposed by immigration, visa authorities, or Chinese law will also be restricted from entering the country.