China enforces new travel rules expanding exit bans for security threats

China on Tuesday began enforcing sweeping new travel regulations that grant authorities expanded power to restrict citizens from leaving the country, particularly those deemed threats to national technology security. The rules, which took effect September 15, 2026, formalize and broaden existing practices, allowing exit bans of six months to three years for citizens who return after committing acts abroad that harm national security or interests. The regulations, issued by the State Council and signed by Premier Li Qiang on July 22, target violations of export controls or technology import and export rules that may endanger industrial or technological security. They also permit authorities to deny entry to foreign nationals for one to five years for making false statements in visa applications. While the Chinese government states the rules do not restrict ordinary citizens and serve as a preventative measure against high-risk destinations, analysts and critics argue the broad, loosely defined criteria grant Beijing expansive discretionary power.