China Tightens Entry and Exit Rules from September 15

Chinese citizens and overseas visitors face stricter entry and exit checks starting September 15. New rules enforce heavy fines and entry bans for false documents or fake invitations. This impacts residents in Copenhagen who travel to China or invite foreign friends.

Premier Li Qiang signed State Council Decree Number 841 on July 22. The government published the 19 regulations on July 31. Applicants must state a truthful and lawful purpose for entering or leaving China. Immigration officers can check travel documents and request electronic data when needed.

Foreign nationals using fake documents face entry bans of one to five years. Individuals issuing fake invitation letters face fines from 5,000 yuan to 10,000 yuan. Organizations face fines from 10,000 yuan to 50,000 yuan for false documents. Intermediary agencies must register with immigration authorities within strict deadlines.

The rules do not establish random mobile phone searches for ordinary tourists. Existing visa-free entry and 240-hour transit policies remain in effect. This story was reported by The Straits Times.