China says new exit and entry regulations will not affect ordinary travellers

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Authorities stressed that the new measures are designed to combat cross-border illegal activities and will not restrict ordinary travellers with legitimate travel needs.

China's authorities have clarified that the country's new exit and entry administration regulations, which took effect on 15 September 2026, are aimed at tackling cross-border illegal activities and will not affect ordinary travellers with legitimate travel needs.

The clarification was issued by the Ministry of Justice, the Ministry of Public Security, and the National Immigration Administration seen on a Weibo post in response to online speculation that the new regulations signal tighter controls on citizens leaving the country.

According to the authorities, interpretations that the measures are intended to restrict ordinary travel are “a misunderstanding of the regulatory amendments”.

Officials said the regulations are aimed at addressing illegal cross-border activities, including cases involving individuals being lured overseas under false pretences, travelling abroad under false reasons to engage in cross-border gambling, telecommunications fraud, and unlawful transfer of sensitive technologies.

They stressed that citizens travelling for legitimate purposes, including tourism, family visits, study, work, and business activities, will not be affected.

Authorities added that the revised framework is intended to protect the lawful rights and interests of travellers, safeguard personal and property safety, and uphold national sovereignty, security, and development interests.

Announced on 31 July, the 19-article regulation sets out application requirements for exit and entry services, refines restrictive measures, and strengthens oversight of intermediary services related to immigration matters.

Under the new framework, applicants must provide truthful and lawful reasons when applying for entry, exit, residence, or stay permits. Immigration authorities will be authorised to request supporting documents, electronic data, and other information to verify applicants' identities and stated purposes.

Individuals found to have submitted false documents or made false statements may be denied visas, travel documents, or permission to enter or leave the country.

The regulations also establish a formal filing and registration system for immigration-related service providers, including agencies offering visa consultation, document processing, and other immigration support services.

These providers will be subject to compliance requirements and prohibited from issuing misleading advertisements, preparing fraudulent documents, or assisting illegal cross-border activities.

Separately, the regulations strengthen China's exit security risk prevention system. They stipulate that the foreign affairs, culture and tourism, and other relevant authorities under the State Council must promptly issue public safety alerts and risk warnings for overseas travel destinations in the event of emergencies.