China implements new exit restrictions for citizens starting September 15

China has approved new rules that make it easier to stop citizens from leaving the country. The rules were published on 31 July 2026 and will come into force on 15 September 2026.

Under the new rules, people can be banned from travelling for six months to three years if they obtained travel documents dishonestly or crossed a border illegally. Citizens whose overseas activities harm national security can also be stopped from leaving. People who break technology trade rules and put China's industrial development at risk face the same restriction.

Foreigners who break certain rules can be banned from entering China for up to five years. The government has also been given power to issue travel warnings for dangerous destinations, though a warning does not automatically mean a travel ban.