In our spotlight on APAC series, we round up the latest developments across the region. This post looks at China’s new exit and entry administration regulations that will take effect on 15 September 2026. The new measures introduce enhanced compliance requirements for foreign nationals, Chinese citizens, employers and other organisations supporting immigration applications, as well as providers of immigration-related intermediary services.
- Enhanced scrutiny of immigration applications. Immigration authorities will have broader authority to request supporting documents, electronic data, and other information to verify an applicant’s identity, travel purpose, and eligibility. Applications may be refused, and entry or exit may be denied, where false or misleading information is provided. Individuals who issue false invitation letters or other supporting documents may face fines of RMB 5,000 to RMB 10,000. Entities may be subject to fines of RMB 10,000 to RMB 50,000, with additional penalties potentially applying to responsible personnel and any illegal gains being confiscated.
- Additional entry restrictions for foreign nationals. Foreign nationals who provide false materials or statements in connection with a Chinese visa application or when seeking entry at a port may be subject to an entry ban of one to five years. Similar restrictions may apply to foreign nationals who have been penalized for certain immigration or border-control violations. Entry restrictions may also apply to individuals subject to specified countermeasures or listed entities.
- New compliance requirements for immigration service providers. Agencies providing immigration application assistance, consultation, document processing, or other exit and entry intermediary services in China will be required to register with the relevant local immigration authorities. Existing providers must complete registration within 90 days after the regulations take effect. Registered providers will also be subject to requirements relating to qualified personnel, data security, compliance management, and other operational matters. Notably, foreign companies and institutions will be prohibited from providing exit and entry intermediary services within China.
- Business immigration considerations. Employers sponsoring or supporting foreign national immigration matters in China should anticipate greater scrutiny of visa and immigration applications and ensure that all supporting documentation, including invitation letters and employment-related information, is accurate, complete, and capable of verification. Companies should also review their internal processes for preparing and retaining immigration documentation to mitigate compliance risks.
Companies engaging immigration service providers in China should be aware of the new registration requirements taking effect on 15 September 2026 and may wish to confirm that their appointed providers are appropriately registered and compliant. Clients should also consider any potential impact on service continuity, data handling and ongoing immigration support, particularly where a provider’s non-compliance could result in fines, suspension or revocation of its business licence, or other regulatory action.
For more information or any assistance you require pertaining the above, please do not hesitate to contact Rachel.ang@magrath.sg or Royston@magrath.sg.
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